Is Garcinia Cambogia Bad For You?

Ever since 2013, when television star and physician Dr. Oz touted the astounding weight loss benefits of Garcinia Cambogia, this supplement has been flying off the shelves into the hands of those desperate to achieve weight loss. Dr. Oz himself described the supplement as a revolutionary, “magic” fat-buster. However, as with any quick trick to weight loss, there is more than meets the eye.

Garcinia Cambogia is a fruit that comes from the Garcinia tree which is found in Southeast Asia and India. The rind contains hydroxycitric acid (HCA) and preliminary tests show that HCA has the potential to prevent fat storage, help you control hunger, and increase your natural endurance when exercising. Testing on humans, however, has been limited and there is no objective data that supports Garcinia Cambogia is any more or less effective at promoting weight loss than traditional methods, or that it is even safe in concentrated levels.

A recent study in the Journal of Obesity did find that participants who used Garcinia Cambogia supplements lost on average two pounds more than those who did not use the supplement during testing. However, researchers could not prove that it was the supplement which contributed to the additional weight loss.

The problem with Garcinia Cambogia is that because it is considered a supplement, the Food and Drug Administration cannot regulate its safety or proper dosage. Independent research in the 2005 Food and Chemical Toxicology found that Garcinia Cambogia caused testicular atrophy in mice, a condition in which the male testes reduce in size, and lose functionality.

One potential benefit to this supplement is that there is some promising research that shows it may help normalize blood sugar and cholesterol levels. When studied in mice, the subjects who were given Garcinia Cambogia had lower levels of insulin than those were not given the supplement. Additional studies also appear to suggest that those who take this supplement may experience improving levels of HDL “good” cholesterol, and reduced levels of LDL “bad" cholesterol. However, it is important to note that these benefits should only be considered by those who are not already being treated for diabetes or high cholesterol, as mixing the supplement with other medications can have dangerous effects.

Overall, there is just not enough evidence to support whether or not Garcinia Cambogia is safe or effective. Although some testing has taken place in mice, objective reports in humans are lacking. As always, it is important to remember that the simplest and healthiest way to achieve weight loss is through proper diet and exercise.  Although Garcinia Cambogia appears to have some health benefits, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine your individual risks.