Beware of this well-known spice, it can make medicines less effective
If you take medication—even occasionally—and consume spices, this can pose a risk. Foods, herbs, drinks, and even dietary supplements can sometimes interact with medications. These interactions can cause side effects, decrease the effectiveness of medications, or even increase their effectiveness, which can make them toxic.
Cinnamon, one of the most widely used spices in the world, may actually interfere with certain medications. This is what a study conducted by the University of Mississippi in the United States suggests. They discovered that one of the main components of cinnamon, cinnamaldehyde, activates receptors in the body that control the body's ability to eliminate medications. In concrete terms, this means that cinnamon can "reduce the effects of medications," the American researchers explain in a press release.
But for this effect to occur, you'd have to consume significant amounts of cinnamon. "Sprinkling cinnamon on your morning coffee shouldn't be a problem," the researchers reassure. However, people taking cinnamon supplements alongside medications should be vigilant and at least seek advice from a healthcare professional.
There is a particular danger for people taking blood thinning medication, since cinnamon—and especially Cassia cinnamon—"contains high levels of coumarin, a blood thinner," the researchers point out. They have yet to prove cinnamon's effects on the body's response to medications in clinical trials. Until then, they "recommend" that people who wish to take a cinnamon-based dietary supplement "consult their doctor first," especially if they suffer from chronic illnesses.
Generally speaking, it's best to only take a dietary supplement after consulting a healthcare professional. Cinnamon supplements are popular for their supposed benefits on blood sugar and cardiovascular health. Despite cinnamon's long and widespread use, its impact on medications in cases of excessive consumption is unknown.
L'Internaute
