Garcinia cambogia C
The effect on weight is not confirmed; in meta-analyses there is no difference from placebo
Citable fact
«Garcinia cambogia» — evidence level C. Dosage: In studies — 300–1500 mg of extract (50–60% hydroxycitric acid) per day in 2–3 doses. It was not possible to confirm an effect on weight at these doses. Source: PMID 31984610, permanent link to the source in the list below.
How it works
A source of hydroxycitric acid, which outside the body inhibits ATP-citrate lyase and thereby fatty acid synthesis. The inhibition is competitive and is weak in the human body, so the laboratory effect does not translate to the whole organism.
Dosage and intake
In studies — 300–1500 mg of extract (50–60% hydroxycitric acid) per day in 2–3 doses. It was not possible to confirm an effect on weight at these doses.
Usually 30 minutes before a meal in 2–3 doses — the rationale relates to the presumed suppression of fat synthesis, but there are no supporting data.
Forms
Fruit extract standardized for hydroxycitric acid; most often part of fat-burner mixes with caffeine and other components.
What is confirmed
- A 2020 meta-analysis of herbal agents showed no clinically significant weight loss for Garcinia
- A 2020 review of weight-loss supplements classifies Garcinia as an agent without convincing evidence
- Laboratory data on suppression of fatty acid synthesis are not reproduced at the level of the organism
Adverse effects and limitations
- Cases of hepatotoxicity have been described, including with intake as part of fat-burner complexes
- Nausea, headache and gas are possible; at large doses — palpitations
- Impurities of stimulants and sibutramine have been found in some products
Interactions
- Combinations with caffeine and other stimulants increase the risk of cardiovascular reactions
- Caution with hepatotoxic drugs and statins
Who must not use it
- Under 18 years: Not recommended: there are no safety or benefit data.
- Pregnancy and lactation: Contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation.
- liver disease
- use of hepatotoxic drugs
- cardiovascular diseases
Sources
- Effectiveness of herbal medicines for weight loss: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials · Maunder A, Bessell E, Lauche R · Diabetes, obesity & metabolism, 2020 · PMID 31984610
- Current Evidence to Propose Different Food Supplements for Weight Loss: A Comprehensive Review · Watanabe M, Risi R, Masi D · Nutrients, 2020 · PMID 32962190
See also
Open in the app
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