Study Finds Cinnamon Challenge Could Cause Permanent Lung Problems
Posted on April 23, 2013
The Cinnamon Challenge involves swallowing a spoonful of ground cinnamon in under 60 seconds without drinking any liquids. A video of the person taking the cinnamon is recorded and then uploaded to a video sharing website, such as YouTube. There are hundreds of thousands of Cinnamon Challenge videos on YouTube. It is usually teens and young adults partaking in the challenge.
A new study has found that in addition to the initial reactions, which include a coughing fit and difficulty breathing, the Cinnamon Challenge can also have a longer lasting impact. A study by University of Miami Miller School of Medicine researchers, published here in the journal Pediatrics, says the challenge can cause permanent lung function changes.
The researchers warn: "swallowing so much cinnamon, a caustic powder composed of cellulose fibers which neither dissolve nor biodegrade in the lungs, has been shown in animal studies to cause lesions, scarring and inflammation of the airways and lungs, and other lasting effects such as progressive pulmonary fibrosis."
Dr. Lipshultz, co-author of the study on ingesting cinnamon, says it is not a laughing matter. Some people have been hospitalized with collapsed lungs after attempting the challenge. Dejah Reed, a Michigan teenager, was nearly killed by the Cinnamon Challenge. She is warning other kids to avoid attempting the stupid challenge. Take a look: