As the festive season fades, many across the UK are grappling with intensified hunger and persistent cravings, a direct hangover from weeks of Christmas indulgence. However, a leading weight loss expert has shared a remarkably simple and affordable kitchen staple that could help reset your appetite in minutes for just 10p a day.
The Science Behind Post-Christmas Hunger
According to appetite specialists, the rich foods, irregular meal patterns, and late-night snacking common over Christmas can overstimulate the brain's reward pathways. This disruption leaves a legacy of heightened sugar and carbohydrate cravings well into the New Year. Professor Franklin Joseph, founder of Dr Frank’s Weight Loss Clinic, explains that this phenomenon is often driven by unstable blood sugar levels rather than mere psychology.
"After weeks of grazing and indulgent foods, blood sugar becomes unstable, which is why people feel constant urges in January," stated Prof Joseph. He advocates for a specific, underrated tool to combat this: cinnamon water.
Why Cinnamon is an Effective Appetite Regulator
Professor Joseph outlines that cinnamon works through a dual mechanism. Firstly, it contains compounds that enhance insulin sensitivity, helping the body process carbohydrates more efficiently and preventing the sharp spikes and crashes that trigger hunger pangs. Secondly, it delays gastric emptying, which helps avert sudden cravings for biscuits and evening treats.
"Flavour matters," he added. "When the brain gets something warm and sweet-smelling, it often stops chasing sugary foods. Cinnamon gives that comfort feeling without the calorie hit." He specifically recommends Ceylon cinnamon for its milder flavour and lower coumarin content compared to the cassia variety.
How to Use It and What the Research Says
The method is straightforward: combine a quarter teaspoon of Ceylon cinnamon with hot water, stir thoroughly, and drink gradually. Alternatively, simmer a cinnamon stick for five minutes. Prof Joseph claims that for many, cravings can diminish within 10 to 15 minutes.
This advice is supported by scientific research. A 2020 study published in the Clinical Nutrition journal found that daily cinnamon consumption of up to two grams over 12 weeks significantly reduced body weight, BMI, waist circumference, and fat mass. The study concluded that cinnamon supplementation could be recommended as a weight-reducing aid in obesity management.
With a 100g packet of pure Ceylon cinnamon retailing for around £4.75, the daily cost is a mere pence—approximately 10p per day. As January continues, this simple, evidence-backed trick offers a accessible starting point for those seeking to regain balance after the festive period. Anyone with specific concerns about their weight should consult their GP for professional advice.
