Garcinia cambogia (GC) is a pumpkin-shaped fruit that grows in Southeast Asia and India. The key active ingredient found in the rind of Garcinia Cambogia is hydroxycitric acid (HCA), which some research suggests can help certain people lose weight.
Currently, there are at least 14 separate HCA-containing products sold over-the-counter to consumers labeled as “garcinia Cambogia.” Most people are drawn to the idea of using GC of the potential. It can provide near-effortless, quick weight loss without the need to change someone’s overall diet or lifestyle very much.
1 Garcinia cambogia as a fat loss supplement
GC itself is not a new product; in fact, it’s been consumed in parts of Asia for many years. Although not for the purpose of losing weight. Since GC (traditionally also known as the Malabar tamarind) first began to gain popularity in the U.S. several years ago — after appearing frequently in the media and on popular health-related TV shows — sales have gone up dramatically. More and more people are purchasing this so-called “weight loss miracle drug” in hopes of losing the stubborn body and stomach fat they’ve been struggling with for years.
But just like most other weight-loss supplements, pills, and products, studies regarding Garcinia cambogia effects and safety have been mixed. While there’s some evidence that HCA might be able to aid in weight loss even when someone does not exercise often or change his or her diet very much, there are also concerns regarding serious side effects that can occur, including liver damage or failure, anxiety, fatigue, dizziness, and digestive problems.
Remember that just because GC is derived from a natural fruit. Doesn’t mean it’s always completely safe. So garcinia Cambogia ultimately worth trying? What’s the truth with this purported weight-loss supplement? Let’s take a look at how HCA works, in what situations GC might be helpful, and what adverse reactions are possible when using any type of weight-loss drug.
Finally, it’s worth considering the fact that time and time again we see various fad diets and products publicized to help boost weight loss — but what really works, in the end, is living a healthy lifestyle long term.
2 Does Garcinia Cambogia Work? What the Studies Tell Us
Garcinia cambogia reviews, research results and weight loss testimonials have been mixed. By far the most well-publicized benefit of using garcinia cambogia is its ability to increase weight loss. That are commonly made about garcinia cambogia’s effects include:
- Loss of appetite or less of a desire to eat than usual
- Reduced cravings for unhealthy foods, such as sugar addiction
- A more positive mood (including feeling happier, more energetic and less tired)
- Increased energy and concentration
- Stabilized blood sugar levels
- Improved bowel movements
- Reduced joint pains
- Improved cholesterol levels
- Stronger desire to be physically active
Most of the claims above have not been backed by scientific studies. However, some have. Let’s review the garcinia cambogia benefits that actually have some merit and seem to be effective in some manner.
2.1 1. Weight Loss
Some studies have found that garcinia cambogia might, in fact, be able to help with low amounts of fat loss, plus some of the other health concerns mentioned above, although its effectiveness is rarely strong or consistent. For example, research suggests that HCA works by blocking a certain enzyme called adenosine triphosphate-citrate-lyase, which contributes to the formation of fat cells. But studies comparing GC’s effects to controls have found that it might only increase weight loss by a mere one to two pounds on average.
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These findings are exactly what researchers published in the Journal of Obesity in 2011. When they compared people who took garcinia cambogia extract to those who didn’t, the weight difference was very small (on average just about two pounds). Even possible to conclude that GC was directly responsible for the additional pounds lost.
The meta-analysis reviewed results from 12 different trails involving GC and revealed a small, statistically significant difference in weight loss favoring the use of Garcinia Cambogia products containing HCA slightly overuse of a placebo. However, the analysis also found that some studies showed digestive side effects (“gastrointestinal adverse events”) were twice as common in HCA groups compared with placebo.
Results from various weigh
Various weight loss studies involving getting Results from GC have been very mixed. One study in the meta-analysis reported a significant decrease in fat mass in the HCA group compared with placebo, two studies reported a significant decrease in visceral fat/subcutaneous fat/total fat areas in the HCA group compared with placebo, but two other studies found no significant difference at all between HCA and placebo.
A study that was published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. found that GC used for 12 weeks (1,500 milligrams dosage) “failed to produce significant weight loss and fat. Mass loss beyond that observed with placebo.”
The conclusion of the meta-analysis regarding garcinia cambogia? Researchers summed up their findings by saying that “the magnitude of the effects are small, and the clinical relevance is uncertain. Future trials should be more rigorous and better reported.” The bottom line is that if you’re struggling to lose weight, GC likely won’t be the answer, according to trial and controlled studies.
2.2 2. Lowering Appetite
Studies have also suggested that it’s possible that HCA found in garcinia cambogia can help lower appetite by increasing production of the neurotransmitter serotonin. Which is associated with calm and happy feelings. And therefore sometimes appetite suppression, fewer cravings and reduced desire for comfort foods. Animal studies show it might also help increase energy expenditure.
Keep in mind, however, that this isn’t the case with all people, and there are other, potentially less risky ways to better manage your appetite and boost serotonin production (such as eating balanced meals with protein foods and healthy carbs at regular times throughout the day).
2.3 3. Lower Cholesterol
There’s some support for garcinia Cambogia being able to improve cholesterol levels and lower high triglycerides. It might also be able to help raise HDL “good” cholesterol. It’s not safe for anyone already taking medications that affect cholesterol, however, and its effects don’t seem to be very reliable or strong.
Studies have found that GC has “no significant effect on anthropometric parameters, REE, triglycerides or glucose levels” but might have a small effect on lowering cholesterol. Keep in mind that there are also plenty of other natural ways to improve cholesterol levels, including exercising and eating more dietary fiber from high-fiber foods like veggies, nuts, seeds, and beans.
2.4 4. Stabilized Blood Sugar
Finally, what about CG’s effects on blood sugar levels? Some evidence exists showing that garcinia cambogia can help control blood sugar by improving how cells take up glucose (sugar) to be used for energy. One way in which it might improve weight loss is through inhibition of pancreatic alpha-amylase enzymes, changes in intestinal alpha-glucosidase and alterations in fatty acid synthesis. This might be able to change how carbohydrates are metabolized.
This might possibly help your body respond to insulin better, although it can raise the risk of having low blood sugar levels in some people, too. If you have a history of blood sugar swings, you’re prediabetic, diabetic or taking medications that alter insulin’s effects, GC might make your blood sugar drop dangerously low. While this doesn’t appear to happen in everyone who takes GC, it’s something else to consider and something to discuss with your doctor.
2.5 Potential Garcinia Cambogia Side Effects
While some people claim they don’t experience any side effects at all from using GC, others have had very different experiences. Here’s one disturbing account regarding the use of garcinia cambogia extract that you might not have heard about. It’s contributed several patients winding up in the hospital at least . Such as Liver failure and needing emergency liver transplants.
A 2016 article published by the Transplantation Center at the Mayo Clinic reports that millions of Americans regularly use herbal supplements, often in pill form, but aren’t aware of their full effects. Many weight loss drugs pose potential hidden dangers and are “associated with hepatotoxicity and acute liver injury.”
In the case of garcinia cambogia, it can easily be overused and is not very well-regulated. Some manufacturers recommend taking high doses multiple times per day, for example, 30 to 60 minutes before every meal for eight to 12 weeks straight.
Garcinia Cambogia Side Effects
Aside from liver damage, other garcinia cambogia side effects that can occur include:
- Becoming fuzzy or weak
- Fatigue and brain fog
- Skin Rashes
- An increase in catching colds/lower immune function
- Dry mouth and bad breath
- Headaches
- Digestive issues like nausea, trouble eating or diarrhea
Something else to consider about GC is the long list of its potential medical/drug interactions. Many people should avoid garcinia cambogia due to how it can affect other medications, pregnancy, nutrient levels, blood sugar and more. Garcinia cambogia can potentially interact badly with:
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Existing cases of liver or kidney damage
- Medications that are taken to control asthma and allergies
- Diabetes medications and insulin
- Iron supplements (usually taken by people with anemia)
- Pain medications
- Medications used to control mental disorders like anxiety and depression
- Statin drugs that lower cholesterol
- Blood-thinning drugs (like warfarin)
2.5.1 How Much Garcinia Cambodia Should You Take?
If you decide that you still want to try taking GC for weight loss or its other Garcinia cambogia benefits, here’s what you need to know about dosage recommendations for products containing HCA:
Studies using GC have used a wide range of doses, anywhere from one gram to 2.8 grams daily. Typical doses are usually between 250–1,000 milligrams per day.
Study durations have also varied widely, ranging from using GC between two to 12 weeks at a time.
The optimal dose of HCA is currently still unknown. It’s not clear if a higher HCA dosage even means a higher bioavailability of HCA once consumed.
There does seem to be a significant correlation between the dosage of HCA and body weight loss, meaning higher doses have slightly more effects.
Supplement In Studies For Providing HCA
Garcinia Cambogia continues to be the most widely used supplement in studies for providing HCA. However, aside from GC, HCA can also be found in supplements made from the plant Hibiscus subdariffa.
Because most studies have investigated the effects of GC taken for about eight weeks, researchers believe this is ultimate “too short a time to assess the effects of HCA on body weight.”
To land on the safe side, avoid buying garcinia cambogia “formulas” or “supplement blends,” which might fail to report all of the other ingredients included or accurate levels of HCA. Many proprietary formulas are made by manufacturers. The only use a fraction of the active ingredient or standard dose to keep costs down. Always read labels and look for the words “pure garcinia cambogia” and “hydroxycitric acid (or HCA) extract” (this should be around 50 percent to 60 percent of the product). If you purchase a blend and see an ingredient listed without an amount, that can be a red flag that you don’t know exactly what you’re getting.
Studies Involving Garcinia Cambogia
All studies involving garcinia cambogia, researchers note that it’s hard to tell if any demonstrated benefits. Such as Weight loss, reduced cholesterol, etc. are really due to GC. Actually influenced by other factors like the subjects eating lower-calorie diets or exercising. It’s always possible for any supplement to cause a “placebo effect,” where subjects wind up changing their outlook and habits simply because they believe the product is helping them (even if it isn’t actually doing anything).
Journal of Obesity meta-analysis another interesting fact. That reports is most of the included studies “failed to indicate, outcome assessors were blinded. And seven studies did not even specify who funded the Garcinia Cambogia studies.” Garcinia Cambogia might help you lose an additional one to two pounds. If you take it regularly, most experts don’t think it’s worth the money or the risk — especially considering its effects are so small and inconsistent.
Ultimately, taking weight loss supplements won’t teach you much about eating an overall healthy diet. Finding ways to enjoy exercise, or practicing “intuitive eating” and managing cravings. So, what can you do to move in the right direction of losing weight safely?
Weight loss efforts should always be realistic, safe and sustainable. Remember that the real goal is to reach a healthy weight and stay there for life. That’s why quick fixes and fad diets have been shown in studies. To fail in the long run over 95 percent of the time.
Here are some of my favorite tips for losing weight using reliable methods that really work:
- Get good sleep: A lack of sleep (less than seven to nine hours nightly for most people) can mean a lack of weight loss.
- Eat more fiber: Adults need to aim for at least 25–30 grams daily from things like veggies. Also fruit, ancient grains, sprouted legumes, and seeds.
- Use healthy fats: Coconut oil has natural fat-burning effects just like GC does. Plus many more benefits like improving gut health, too. Other healthy fats that can help control your appetite include real olive oil, avocado. Also fats from grass-fed beef, nuts and seeds.
- Utilize adaptogen herbs: Adaptogen herbs like maca, ginseng, and Rhodiola can help control health conditions. That can make it hard to lose weight (like high amounts of stress, thyroid issues, leaky gut, adrenal fatigue, cellular toxicity, and candida).
- Don’t skimp on protein: Protein foods are satisfying and essential for building muscles. Regularly include proteins like cage-free eggs and wild-caught fish in your meals.
losing weight using reliable methods
- Consume probiotics: Probiotic foods and supplements not only help balance improve digestive health. But they also balance hormones, raise immunity, control your appetite and play a part in weight control.
- Switch up your exercise routine: Try burst-training exercises and other forms of high-intensity. Interval training (HIIT) to keep challenging your muscles. Work in with a group, add in weight training, and relax with yoga in between workouts.
- Stand up more during the day: long periods of time Sitting for is associated with being overweight and a higher risk of obesity.
- Sneak more fitness into your day: Take the stairs, do body weight exercises at home. Also Try wearing a fitness tracker for motivation — try some of these exercise hacks.
- Schedule your workouts ahead of time: This makes it much more likely you’ll follow through.
- Use essential oils for weight loss: Natural oils including grapefruit. Cinnamon and ginger oil can help control your appetite hormones and digestive symptoms.
2.6 Is Garcinia Cambogia a safe supplement product?
People could safely eat the fruit, of course. Clinical trials have shown it’s safe to take Garcinia Cambogia extract orally. Minimum of for 12 weeks, the length of the studies. But take caution! Garcinia cambogia has facet side effects — it may lower a person’s blood glucose; thus, it can interact with diabetes treatments. The fruit hasn’t been adequately studied in pregnant women or women who breastfeed. And garcinia cambogia could also be a problem for patients with Alzheimer’s disease} or different forms of dementia, Ulbricht said.
In 2009, the Food and Drug Administration issued a safety warning after receiving more than 20 reports of severe reactions. Together with liver damage, in people taking the supplement Hydroxycut. At the time, Hydroxycut contained garcinia cambogia extract and different compounds, together with chromium polynicotinate and Gymnema Sylvestre extract.
World Journal of medical specialty
A case study revealed in 2016 in the World Journal of medical specialty by Keri E. Lunsford, et al., examined an instance where Garcinia cambogia caused internal organ failure. Leading to the necessity of a liver transplant. The subject had taken the supplement for several months before his liver had failed. The researchers report that this is often the first known case of acute liver failure. Garcinia Cambogia was the sole supplement or drug that the patient had eaten way. The potential risks of taking this supplement. Ulbricht said it’s unclear if the Garcinia Cambogia extract caused liver damage.
2.6.1 Conclusion
Garcinia cambogia has several benefits and side effects too, just as all previous research teams have stated; only to use where applicable. Well, that means you shouldn’t take any dosage of this mighty fruit without any actual needs. It can be seriously harmful to your body—especially if you’re a pregnant woman. A breastfeeding mom, or just a regular Alzheimer’s or dementia patient. Garcinia Cambogia can boost your serotonin level on a dangerous level which can lead to many mental health issues. The several neurological disorders to take any dosage of it. Especially if they are suffering from Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s or any sort of relevant dementia.
Keep in mind Garcinia cambogia isn’t something like a magic pill. That can melt your extra fat in instant. However, it surely can help you to lose few more inches of extra fat in your body—in few months.
References:
- https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/hn-2863003
- https://www.womenshealthmag.com/weight-loss/a19913648/garcinia-cambogia-extract/
- https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/fruit/garcinia-cambogia.html
- https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/article-abstract/1030241
