New study says cinnamon may prevent prostate cancer; experts weigh in

As part of the study, adult rats were given cinnamon or its bioactive compounds through the diet before induction of cancer and the rats were fed for 16 weeks. The study authors observed that feeding cinnamon or its active compounds resulted in 60-70 per cent of rats showing normal prostate histologically.

“We tried to decipher the probable mechanism(s) for the chemopreventive effect and observed that cinnamon and its active components could mitigate oxidative stress, and decrease the spread of cancer cells in the prostate gland,” said Ayesha Ismail, Head of Endocrinology Division, who led the study.

Interestingly, the authors also observed beneficial effects on bone mineral content and a decrease in bone degeneration in the studied rats.

Visit the doctor for a screening to detect early signs and symptoms. (Photo: Getty/Thinkstock)

Acknowledging the results about the Indian spice which is commonly used in the cuisine, Hemalatha R, director of ICMR-NIN, noted that the outcomes warrant more detailed studies before making dietary recommendations.

Notably, prostate cancer is a prevalent form of cancer among men. In the laboratory setting, researchers have found that certain components of cinnamon may inhibit the growth of cancer cells and even trigger their death through apoptosis. “Cinnamon’s anti-inflammatory properties also play a role in reducing cellular stress and damage, which are factors associated with cancer development,” mentioned Dr JB Sharma, senior consultant, medical oncology, Action Cancer Hospital, Delhi.

According to Dr Sharma, epidemiological observations, which involve studying patterns and trends in real-world populations, have provided additional support for the potential cancer-fighting properties of cinnamon. “Regions with diets rich in cinnamon or where cinnamon is a dietary staple have shown lower incidences of prostate cancer,” said Dr Sharma.

However, while these findings are promising, it’s important to approach them with caution. “The study’s results may not apply universally to all individuals, and more research is needed to establish a clear cause-and-effect relationship between cinnamon consumption and prostate cancer prevention. Factors like dosage, individual genetic makeup, and other dietary habits can influence outcomes,” remarked Dr Sharma.

Concurred Dr Santosh Pandey, naturopath and acupuncturist, Rejua Energy Centre, Mumbai and highlighted that “there’s no conclusive evidence that cinnamon can prevent prostate cancer”.

“Prostate cancer is a complex disease influenced by various factors, and no single food or spice can be guaranteed to prevent it,” said Dr Pandey.

As with any health-related information, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle based on preliminary research findings. While cinnamon shows potential in the realm of cancer prevention, more rigorous research is necessary to provide concrete recommendations, Dr Sharma urged.

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