Q&A: Is Garcinia Cambogia Safe And Does It Really Work?

Q: Is Garcinia cambogia safe and does it really work? – Anonymous

A: Garcinia cambogia extract is found in the rind of the tamarind, a tropical fruit. This is a diet supplement that most users on average lose 4lbs a month. The HCA (hydroxycitric acid) extract from garcinia cambogia aid in weight loss by doing two things : It helps to block fat from being formed in the body and it suppresses your appetite.

HCA blocks fat by shutting off an enzyme that the body needs to make fat from carbohydrates, citrate lyase. Carbohydrates and/or sugars that are not used immediately or stored in other forms are converted into fats. When HCA shuts off the function of citrate lyase, the fat-making process is halted and the production of LDL (bad cholesterol) and triglycerides decrease.

HCA suppresses appetite by increasing serotonin levels. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter in your brain that makes you feel good. Low levels of serotonin may make you feel depressed or anxious and it drives many people into emotional or reactive eating. By increasing serotonin levels, HCA improves mood and suppresses the drive to react to stressful situations with food. As you eat less, your body senses this and it releases stored fat in your fat cells.

When looking for garcinia cambogia extract, look for GCE or the full title. Make certain there are no fillers or artificial ingredients. HCA should be at least 50% and potassium as an active ingredient should be on the label as well. The most you should take is 3000mg per day. It is best when taken on an empty stomach with water. In addition to using this supplement, a healthy diet and regular exercise will allow you to lose triple the amount of usual weight per month.

Long-term safety is unknown, but garcinia is potentially safe for most people when used less than 12 weeks.