As the New Year begins, many across the UK are battling intensified hunger and persistent cravings following the festive indulgence of Christmas. The combination of rich foods, irregular eating, and sugary treats can leave appetite regulation in disarray, making January a challenging month for those trying to regain control.
The Science Behind Post-Christmas Hunger
According to appetite specialists, the festive period's eating habits can overstimulate the brain's reward pathways, particularly those driving desires for carbohydrates and sugar. This physiological shift, rather than mere psychological weakness, is often to blame for the constant hunger many experience in January.
Professor Franklin Joseph, founder of Dr Frank’s Weight Loss Clinic, explains that this phenomenon is frequently driven by unstable blood sugar levels. "After weeks of grazing and indulgent foods, blood sugar becomes unstable, which is why people feel constant urges in January," he stated.
A Simple and Affordable Appetite Reset
Professor Joseph advocates for a remarkably simple and cost-effective solution: cinnamon water. He highlights that cinnamon is a powerful tool for regulating glucose levels and delaying gastric emptying, which helps prevent the sudden hunger pangs that lead to snacking on biscuits and confectionery.
The expert specifically recommends Ceylon cinnamon, known for its milder flavour and lower coumarin content compared to the cassia variety. A 100g bag of pure Ceylon cinnamon can be purchased for around £4.75, working out to a daily cost of roughly 10p.
How to Use Cinnamon for Appetite Control
The method is straightforward: mix a quarter teaspoon of Ceylon cinnamon powder into a cup of hot water, stir thoroughly, and drink it gradually. Alternatively, simmer a cinnamon stick in hot water for about five minutes.
"It's simple, cheap and very effective," Professor Joseph said. "For many people, cravings fade within 10 to 15 minutes." He also notes that the warm, sweet aroma of cinnamon can satisfy sensory cravings for comfort foods without the associated calories.
Research Supporting the Claim
This recommendation is backed 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 led to reductions in body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and fat mass.
The study's authors concluded that "cinnamon supplementation significantly affects obesity measures. It could be recommended as a weight-reducing supplement in obesity management." The effects were notably greater in individuals under 50 and those with a baseline BMI of 30 or above.
While natural aids like cinnamon can be helpful, anyone with significant concerns about their weight or health should always seek professional advice from their GP.
