If you've never subscribed to the use of a weight loss supplement, you've probably never heard of garcinia cambogia (or hydroxycitric acid, the common name of its extract). It is a fairly popular ingredient in a number of weight loss products on the market today, with a handful of both potential benefits and possible side effects.
Identification
Garcinia cambogia is simply a fruit from India that would remind you of a pumpkin, just much, much smaller. Currently, it is found in a number of your standard weight loss supplements, the most popular being Hydroxycut. It is said that the extract from garcinia cambogia, otherwise referred to as hydroxycitric acid or HCA, is an effective appetite suppressant and fat-burner. While there is some truth to these claims, clinical trial evidence of the efficacy of the extract is ambiguous, at best.
Function
Basically, garcinia cambogia works to slow down the production of a certain enzyme in the body that is linked to the creation of fat. Once the amount of this enzyme is reduced in your system, it is believed that your body will essentially burn any excess carbohydrates you ingest within a day. When the excess carbs are burned off, there is nothing left over to create fat, hence the claim that garcinia cambogia is a "fat-burner." While burning off this excess fat, the supplement will also suppress your appetite, therefore amplifying the effects of the natural substance. Of course, these claims are currently not supported by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration).
Effects
While most weight loss supplement manufacturers will tell you that are currently no known side effects of garcinia cambogia, a number of people have complained about some relatively minor reactions, including nausea, headaches or migraines and stomach discomfort. Due to the limited number of trials run on this natural extract, it can be hard to pinpoint why these side effects have occurred.
Warning
Although most people who use a product containing garcinia cambogia extract or hydroxycitric acid (HCA) will have little to no problems with their health, some people have also complained of an allergic reaction. Signs and symptoms of this sort of reaction will vary from person to person, but may include a rash, hives, a swelling of the mouth or tongue, a tightening of the throat, a problem swallowing and even a difficulty in breathing.
Considerations
Due to the herbal nature of the garcinia cambogia, the supplement is not held to the same standards or regulations as those substances considered prescription drugs. This means that you may actually experience adverse interactions with certain prescriptions you may currently be on for a given condition or illness, potentially making the drug (not the supplement) less effective in treating you. If you are planning on using garcinia cambogia as a supplement in your weight loss plan, consult your physician first. She may know how your particular medications may interact with the extract.
Tags: weight loss, garcinia cambogia, garcinia cambogia, hydroxycitric acid, side effects, cambogia supplement, fat-burner While