Is Garcinia Safe For Weight Loss?

When it comes to wonder foods for weight loss, garcinia cambogia tops the list. Though it is available in its natural fruit form, the nutritional supplements containing garcinia extract have become quite a rage among those who aim to lose weight or curb their appetite.

The fruit that is grown in the Southwest region of India, Indonesia and Myanmar is also referred as ‘Malabar Tamarind’. The fully ripen fruit is about the size of an orange with red or yellowish color. However, the shape of the fruit resembles more with pumpkin. People since ancient times have been using dried garcinia rinds for making curries and chutneys but the late 1960’s witnessed a scientific revolution pertaining to the effectiveness of garcinia cambogia in treating several health conditions, with weight loss being a particular one.

Garcinia contains a high amount of HCA (Hydroxy Citric Acid), which is said to stop the production of an enzyme in the body that turns sugar into fat. But, can a fruit extract actually interfere with the body’s fat production?

Does Garcinia Cambogia Actually Work?

While some studies say that HCA works, some simply negate its effectiveness. Even though the animal experiments of the compound done on mice have shown significant results in weight loss, appetite control and less fat from sugar production.

On the other hand, human studies came with more conflicting results. While one weight loss trial depicted no significant difference between people taking garcinia extract and those who consumed placebo pill. Other studies linked HCA with healthy weight loss and blood lipid levels.

Despite the huge popularity of garcinia cambogia benefits for weight loss, it is difficult to track down the effectiveness of its supplements in the cases of weight loss.

Is It Safe To Consume Garcinia Cambogia Supplement?

People who wish to include garcinia in their diet can either eat the fruit safely or they can opt for supplements which are made from real garcinia fruit extracts only, without many arterial combinations. Clinical trials have also suggested that it is safe to consume garcinia cambogia extract supplement by mouth for up to 12 weeks. If you wish to take it for a longer period, physician consultation is recommended.

But, it is advised to take caution as garcinia comes with its own share of side effects. Lowering of blood pressure is one of the most common side effects of garcinia, which makes it intersect with diabetes treatments. Neither the fruit nor the extract is termed fit for consumption by pregnant women or women who breastfeed. People suffering from Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia should avoid consuming garcinia in any form.

The bottom line is, no matter how popular the supplement may be, it is advisable to consult with your doctor before trying any new supplement, including Garcinia and HCA.