Garcinia cambogia is a tropical fruit extract that has been marketed as a weight-loss aid, but research into its effectiveness is mixed and its use has been associated with severe side effects, including liver damage. The active ingredient is hydroxycitric acid (HCA), which is believed to suppress appetite and block fat production.
Potential benefits
Based on human and animal studies, HCA is thought to work in the following ways:
- Modest weight loss: Some studies have shown that garcinia cambogia can cause a small amount of weight loss over several weeks, with an average of about 2 pounds (0.88 kg) more than a placebo. However, other studies have found no significant difference.
- Reduced fat production: HCA may block an enzyme called citrate lyase, which is important for converting carbohydrates into fat.
- Appetite suppression: Studies in rats suggest that garcinia cambogia can increase serotonin levels in the brain, which is a known appetite suppressant. Some human studies have also reported a reduction in appetite.
- Reduced abdominal fat: Research suggests that garcinia cambogia may be effective at reducing the accumulation of visceral (belly) fat in overweight individuals.
- Improved blood fat levels: A study in moderately obese people found that daily garcinia cambogia supplementation improved blood fat levels, including lower total and “bad” LDL cholesterol, higher “good” HDL cholesterol, and lower triglycerides.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.