Weight loss and weight management are the broad terms used in the fitness industry which are known to motivate people in their journey to maintain a healthy weight. In order to achieve the results faster, people incline to weight loss supplements and pills, some of which may be harmful to their bodies. However, many of them have proved to be highly beneficial in helping people shed extra pounds. One such supplement under discussion in this article is Garcinia Cambogia.

It is a popular weight loss supplement that is derived from the fruit called Garcinia gummi-gutta, also called Malabar tamarind. This fruit’s peel comprises high amounts of Hydroxy citric acid (HCA), an active ingredient that aids in weight loss.

What is Garcinia Cambogia

As mentioned above, it is a small pumpkin-shaped fruit that is either yellowish or greenish. Since it imparts a sour when eaten raw, it is generally used only for cooking purposes. The HCA, which is present in the peel of the fruit, is known to have weight-shedding properties. Therefore, the supplements from this peel comprise 20-60% HCA, which can help in weight loss.

Many studies conducted on the benefits of the fruit have indicated a small amount of weight loss in people who regularly consume the fruit. When used over 2-12 weeks, the fruit can help shed up to 2 pounds of weight. However, the evidence is mixed. This means that Garcinia Cambogia supplements can also be considered for consistent but small weight loss. However, they cannot be guaranteed.

How Garcinia Cambogia supplements can aid in weight loss

According to studies conducted on the topic, it can do so because of two main reasons:

Reduces appetite

A study conducted on rats shows that the ones infused with Garcinia Cambogia supplements tend to eat less, thus suppressing one’s appetite. Although the mechanism is entirely unknown, it suggests that the supplement increases serotonin secretion in the brain, a popular ingredient known to suppress hunger.

Blocks fat production

One of the most critical aspects of Garcinia Cambogia supplements is impacting the amount of fat in the blood and inhibiting the secretion of new fatty acids in the body. This can reduce oxidative stress in the body, which helps decrease belly fat accumulation. One of the crucial reasons for this is that the supplements inhibit the enzyme citrate lyase, which plays a crucial role in fat production.

Other health benefits of Garcinia Cambogia supplements

Many studies conducted on animals and humans suggest that these supplements also have small amounts of anti-diabetic effects, along with:

• Decrease in insulin levels
• Decrease in leptin levels
• Reducing inflammation
• Improving blood sugar
• Improving insulin sensitivity

Some animal studies have also proven that the supplements help treat stomach ulcers and protect the inner lining of the digestive system.