In the corners of the web, there are several tempting promises of shady weight loss pills and remedies, however, these have no credentials and are possibly filled with toxic substances. Hence, there's a growing demand for natural and organic alternatives, like Garcinia Cambogia, a fruit that claims to have anti-weight properties.
Yes! A fruit that can cause Weight loss, sounds like a fantasy? Well, it is not, this is a genuine fruit and we have broken down all the myths and facts for you to understand the benefits better.
What is Garcinia Cambogia?
Garcinia cambogia is a small pumpkin shaped fruit that is native to India and Southeast Asia. It has been popularly used as a condiment and food preservative in Asian countries. The peel of this fruit consists of a chemical called hydroxy citric acid (HCA), which has long been studied for its effects on suppressing appetite. There are a lot of Garcinia Cambogia supplements with HCA that are marketed for weight loss (1).
Benefits of Garcinia Cambogia
Helps Suppresses Your Appetite
Garcinia cambogia supplements are marketed as weight loss supplements due to their appetite suppressant properties. Some research suggests that an active ingredient in Garcinia Cambogia can lead to an increase in serotonin. Central serotonin is known to suppress appetite with an increased intake of serotonin through Garcinia Cambogia one can reduce appetite, however, the effects may vary from person to person (2).
Helps to Reduce Body Fat
Garcinia Cambogia also helps in burning body fat and impacts the production of new fatty acids. Hydroxy citric acid present in garcinia cambogia has been found to boost the fat-burning potential of the body. Garcinia Cambogia also inhibits a certain enzyme called citrate lyase that plays a crucial role in fat production, preventing a blockage of fat production by stopping the citrate lyase in the body and lowering the risk of weight gain.
Several studies have examined the effects of garcinia cambogia on fat burning. The findings from these studies showed mixed results with some studies producing significant results and others showing little difference.
Diabetes Friendly
There is a direct link between obesity and diabetes. People who are overweight are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes than others. Garcinia Cambogia not only helps in weight loss, but it improves blood triglyceride levels and lowers cholesterol which can potentially prevent the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
It helps reduce inflammation and improves the body's blood sugar balance along with increased insulin sensitivity that contributes to diminishing the factors that could lead to possible illness.
One of the researchers has found that it can also be used as a natural supplement as Garcinia Cambogia can alleviate insulin resistance and hepatic lipid accumulation (3).
Other Health Benefits
Some lesser known benefits of garcinia cambogia include energy production, improved athletic performance, lowered cholesterol and lowering blood sugar levels.
How much Garcinia Cambogia is safe to consume?
A wide variety of brands offer garcinia supplements that are high in quality and can aid weight loss. They can be easily purchased from local pharmacies or even online stores.
A good way to determine the supplements that are good from a certain brand is by checking the percentage of HCA which is best when it is between 50-60%. It comes in several forms like capsules, powders, tablets, liquids etc. Or eating it in its natural form is the best option too for those that have accessibility.
The labels of each brand with the supplements vary, however, a general rule of thumb is 500 mg, thrice a day between meals. Since it has appetite-suppressing properties it is best to take it before meals to help curb overeating.
Having it consistently will help your body develop a pattern and increase the effectiveness of the supplements.
Conclusion
Garcinia Cambogia has several proven benefits and has been a part of ayurvedic treatment for decades, however, like every food this also has its variables. It is best that you take the advice of your professional healthcare provider before starting any rounds of supplements to ensure you do not experience any discomfort.
FAQs 1. What does garcinia cambogia do to the body? The main benefit of garcinia cambogia is weight loss. It helps the body to suppress appetite, burn body fat and reduce weight.
2. Is garcinia cambogia safe and effective? Yes, garcinia cambogia is safe and effective. If you are consuming garcinia cambogia supplements for weight loss, then consume the recommended dosage to avoid any side effects.
3. How long does it take to see results from garcinia cambogia? The results from garcinia cambogia can vary from person to person. It depends on factors like quality of extract, concentration, usage and person's lifestyle.
4. Does garcinia cambogia affect sleep? There is no conclusive evidence to confirm if garcinia cambogia affects sleep.
5. Does Garcinia affect hormones? Garcinia Cambogia supplements do not affect any hormone significantly.