Garcinia cambogia is a fruit that grows in Southeast Asia and India. The fruits are small, similar to a small pumpkin, and range in color from light green to yellow. It is also known as zebraberry. Dried fruits contain hydroxycitric acid (HCA) as the main ingredient (10–50%) and are considered potential weight loss supplements. In 2012, popular TV personality Dr. Oz promoted Garcinia Cambogia extract as a natural weight loss product. Dr. Oz’s endorsement resulted in a significant increase in sales of the consumer product. According to Women’s Journal, Britney Spears and Kim Kardashian reported significant weight loss after using the product.
Clinical study results do not support claims that Garcinia Cambogia extract or HCA extract are effective for weight loss. A 1998 randomized controlled trial evaluated the active ingredient (HCA) as a potential anti-obesity treatment in 135 volunteers. The conclusion was that the product failed to provide significant weight loss and reduction in fat mass compared to placebo. However, there is some evidence of short-term weight loss in some people. Weight loss was small and its significance is unclear. Although the product has received widespread media attention as a weight loss aid, limited data suggest there is no clear evidence of its benefits.
Reported side effects of taking 500 mg of HCA four times daily are headache, nausea, and gastrointestinal discomfort. HCA has been reported to be hepatotoxic. No interactions with other drugs have been reported.
Garcinia cambogia is sold in health food stores and pharmacies under a variety of trade names. Due to the lack of quality standards, there is no guarantee of uniformity and reliability of dosage forms from individual manufacturers. This product is labeled as a supplement and is not approved as a drug by the Food and Drug Administration. Therefore, safety and effectiveness cannot be guaranteed. When purchasing a weight loss supplement, consider safety, effectiveness, affordability, and customer service.
If you are taking other prescription medications, be sure to talk to your doctor to make sure Garcinia Cambogia tablets will help you. If you decide to purchase garcinia cambogia or glycolic acid products, be sure to ask your pharmacist to help you choose the best product. A wise consumer is an informed consumer. Knowing the right information can help you live a healthy lifestyle and save some money.