Crafting a weight-loss regimen is the easy part, but actually following through is where the real challenge lies. Most of us lead busy lives that unfortunately leave little time for achieving our weight-loss goal. And when we do manage to put in some effort on that rare occasion, we’re either too worried that it might not give the desired results or discouraged by the perceived little progress.
Fortunately, there are weight loss supplements you can take to shed some extra fat and make you can feel good on the scale. In fact, in our view, consuming a supplement like garcinia cambogia would lead to body-positivity and acceptance.
Do you really not know about this potent plant and fruit? Well, to maintain a weight that fits the beautiful you, check out all there is to know about garcinia cambogia.
What is garcinia cambogia?
It is a tropical plant and fruit with about 300 species found in Southeast Asia, in parts of Polynesia, Australia and also Africa. Of its entire species, the most widely commercialized is the one related to weight loss, as it is believed to have appetite suppressant characteristics.
Traditionally, Garcinia cambogia was used largely to treat rheumatism. But due to results of a study on rats in the 1970s showing a reduction in the animal’s food intake by 25%, its popularity as a weight loss supplement has soared.
The Main Ingredients in Garcinia Cambogia
The following are the main ingredients in Garcinia Cambogia:
· HCA (Hydroxycitric Acid)
The hydroxycitric acid content of garcinia cambogia is over one quarter of its weight as a fruit. This is exactly what leads to appetite suppression and an increased fat-burning.
· Flavonoids
Just like in almost every fruit, flavonoids are phytonutrients that are antioxidants, have anti-inflammatory properties, and help in boosting the body’s immunity. Flavonoids in garcinia cambogia contain all the benefits of a diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables.
· Xanthones
Xanthones is also a phytonutrient that is vital in helping the body get rid of free radicals. As an antioxidant, it eliminates the possibility of all kinds of metabolic breakdowns.
Is Garcinia Cambogia Really Effective?
In studies conducted on mice, the citrate lyase in them plays a significant role in their fat-control system. However, there are arguments that the role of citrate lyase in humans is really insignificant.
In fact, according to the Journal of Obesity in 2010, the fat-loss caused by the consumption of Garcinia cambogia is only partially effective in the short term and is of a very small degree.
The Benefits of Garcinia Cambogia
· Enhances Weight-Loss
All over the Internet, there are claims of it being a miracle pill for obesity and though there are massive advertising campaigns, studies and lab tests result cannot categorically back up these claims. Even science still seems to be on the fence with how garcinia cambogia promotes weight loss. For instance, the Journal of Obesity stated that, “The magnitude of the effect is small, and the clinical relevance is uncertain.”
Not all of us are built to go on a strict diet and workout regimen. But if you still worry about what the scale says, then we are here to remind you that garcina cambogia supplement is worth the try. It is, however, advisable to not just believe user comments, but consult a medical expert before starting supplementation with garcinia cambogia.
According to examine.com, it should be taken 30-60 minutes before a meal and can be taken before three different meals daily.
· Lowers Insulin Levels in Diabetic Patients
In preliminary tests conducted on mice in June 2005, results showed that after a dose of garcinia cambogia that was 5 times higher than the recommended human dose, glucose absorption slowed down.
Also, in the published article “Fitoterapia”, it was written that mice that were given a high-sugar diet for four weeks and supplemented with garcinia cambogia, showed lower insulin levels than those who did not take the supplementation.
The Potential Side Effects of Garcinia Cambogia
It is already common knowledge that the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) does not regulate dietary supplements. This means that garcinia cambogia is not evaluated by the FDA for safety or effectiveness. But in 2009, the FDA issued a warning concerning all products that contained any form of garcinia cambogia after some random users complained of serious liver problems.
Interestingly, every test that has been conducted on this supplement and its several potential health benefits suggest only a little negative result. But some users have reported symptoms of liver-related diseases, dry mouth, diarrhea, dizziness and stomachache after ingesting an HCA supplement like garcinia cambogia.
Also, women who are pregnant or nursing babies shouldn’t take garcinia cambogia. Additionally, because HCA supplements can lead to a drastic drop in blood sugar, diabetic patients who take insulin or glyburide are advised to consult their doctors before taking an HCA supplement. Of course, the supplement can help in lowering cholesterol, but it can also increase the risk of muscle degradation.
Garcinia Cambogia’s Negative Interactions
This supplement might have negative interactions with the following medications:
- All kinds of painkillers
- Insulin
- Cholesterol-reducing drugs
- Blood-thinners
- Prescription medications for psychiatric conditions
- Iron prescribed for anemia
- Asthma drugs
The Bottom Line
No, we are not fans of the harmful “diet culture” that is prevalent these days. In fact, we believe people of all shapes and sizes are beautiful and it’s also everyone’s choice if and when they want to shed extra weight. If you are interested in making a few weight tweaks, there are some things that actually work and garcinia cambogia seem to be one of them.
In this modern age, there’s a pill or powder for pretty much every beauty concern you have. Most of us are used to trying out different weight-loss products, but HCA supplements are another way to reduce weight without putting in the extra work. And For those interested in cutting excess body fat and slimming down fast, we suggest going with this weight-loss supplement.
Of course, the reality is that there are few clinical studies to support the effectiveness this weight-loss supplement. And even when studies are supportive, they are often conducted on mice, not humans. But a trial won’t hurt, would it?
