Garcinia cambogia is a tropical fruit that is primarily found in Southeast Asia and few regions of Africa. It is long used in herbal medicine and provides myriad of health benefits. Several studies have shown that Garcinia cambogia has excellent antioxidant effects. In addition, it also contains hydroxy citric acid which naturally promotes the weight loss. Keep reading to know everything about it.
Uses
Garcinia cambogia helps in weight loss and is believed to suppress appetite prevent fat accumulation, boost metabolism and reduce abdominal fat.
Garcinia cambogia is used in alternative medicine to prevent against the following:
- Diabetes
- Diarrhea
- Gastrointestinal disorders
- High cholesterol
- Heart disease
- Ulcers
Health Benefits
There is still less research to believe all the purported health benefits provided by Garcinia cambogia. However, there are a few evidences that it may provide certain benefits. Look at some of the key findings from the available studies:
1) Weight Loss:
There are not many clinical trials that can vouch for the effectiveness of supplements that contain garcinia cambogia for weight loss. However, few studies have indicated that garcinia cambogia might combat obesity.
In a study conducted in 2005, it was discovered that Garcinia prevented fat buildup in rats. Additionally, a 2008 study proved that it reduces the visceral fat accumulation in the rats. Visceral fat is kind of fat that is primarily found in the abdominal cavity. Garcinia cambogia may therefore reduce your risk of developing heart disease, reduce cholesterol levels and prevent diabetes.[1]
2) High Cholesterol Levels:
A recent study revealed that the use of Garcinia cambogia along with glucomannan might lower the cholesterol levels in people who are obese.[2]For this study, obese participants took both Garcinia cambogia and glucomannan in combination for 6 month. As the study’s completion neared, participants had significant reduction in their cholesterol levels. It is still unknown whether garcinia may alone help in reducing cholesterol. It is worth noting that the combination also reduced the body weight of the participants.
3) Diabetes:
Preliminary studies have suggested that it may also help in managing diabetes. In a study conducted in 2003, tests on the mouse models revealed that garcinia cambogia can considerably improve the blood sugar metabolism.
4) Ulcers:
Garcinia cambogia might also treat ulcers, as per an animal-based study that was published in the year 2002. In several tests on rats, scientists observed that it somehow alleviated the ulcer symptoms by significantly reducing acidity.
Caveats
It is still unknown what effects does long-term use of garcinia cambogia has on the human health. However, it may also lead to certain side effects, including constipation, nausea and headache.
Supplements containing Garcinia are not sufficiently tested for safety as these are largely unregulated. The contents of these products may actually differ from what is written at the label. It is a possibility that these products deliver doses that are not specified. At times, this product might be contaminated with metals or other medications.
For aiding weight loss, these supplements might pose a health risk. We advise you to consult your doctor if you wish to consume Garcinia cambogia, especially if you a pregnant woman or a breastfeeding mother.
Natural Alternatives
Some studies also suggest that alternative natural remedies aid weight loss. It is already discovered that consuming green tea and having adequate levels of vitamin D can help you reach a healthy weight. Certain mind-body techniques such as meditation, yoga, and tai chi might help you lose weight easily.
Using Garcinia Cambogia for Overall Health or Weight Loss
It is quite early to recommend garcinia cambogia to anyone. Remember that any alternative medicine must not be used as an alternative for the standard care. Self-treating your condition and delaying or completely avoiding standard care might have serious repercussions.
However, you can easily buy garcinia online or in supplements form
