Top 12 Health Benefits of Garcinia Cambogia

If you are looking for a supplement to reduce your weight and improve your overall well being, “Garcinia cambogia” is definitely something you want to read about.

Popularly known as Malabar Tamarind, several species of Garcinia belong to Southeast Asia, West and Central Africa and South India.

The following are some of the benefits of Garcinia supported by scientific evidence.

1. Appetite Reduction

Source: tyackhealth

Theoretically, eating less may sound easy, but if you are someone who struggles with frequent hunger pangs, you already know that you need some support.

The modern-day health market is flooded with countless supplements, all claiming to offer an easy route to lose weight.

Appetite suppressants are drugs that directly act on the central nervous system, tricking the body into believing that it is not hungry. 

Some examples of appetite supplements include benzphetamine, mazindol, diethylpropion and phentermine.

The lesser-known fact about appetite-suppressing pills is that they have various side effects such as:

• Insomnia
• Excessive thirst
• Lightheadedness
• Drowsiness
• Sweating
• Constipation
• Increased heart rate
• Increased blood pressure

Garcinia cambogia is an excellent natural supplement when it comes to losing weight naturally.

The prime component of Garnicia is HCA or Hydroxycitric acid. 

One of the essential aspects of HCA is the ability to suppress appetite. This is done by increasing serotonin levels in the body.

Most popularly known as the happy hormone, serotonin helps in the transmission of messages between the neurons and contributes to general wellbeing and happiness.

As the precursor for melatonin, it helps regulate the body’s sleep-wake cycles and the internal biological clock.

Elevated levels of serotonin help to curb the appetite and sugar cravings, thereby helping you to lose weight quickly.

In a study conducted on 60 moderately obese adults, it was observed after six weeks that the main component (HCA) present in Garcinia cambogia helped to reduce the overall food consumption and at the same time maintain the feeling of satiety or fullness.

The same study conducted for six weeks on a group of 60 moderately obese adults showed decreased food consumption.

2. Blocks the production of fat

Research has indicated that hydro citric acid contained in Garcinia Cambogia is capable of stopping the body from producing fat, catalysing the effect of weight loss.

In the human body, an enzyme known as citrate lyase plays a key role in fat production.

HCA contained in Garcinia inhibits the effects of citrate lyase, thereby slowing down the fat production, helping you to lose weight at a rapid rate.

3. Helps to control diabetes

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The number of diabetic patients in the world is increasing at an alarming rate. It has been estimated that in the next 20 years, there will be 26 million people who suffer from diabetes in the world.

Research has shown solid pieces of evidence that could link obesity with type 2 diabetes. It has been found that obese people are 80 times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes.

Studies have suggested that excess fat in the abdomen causes the fat cells to release ‘pro-inflammatory’ chemicals. These chemicals disrupt the normal functioning of insulin-responsive cells, making the body less sensitive to insulin.

The HCA component found in Garcinia minimises the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This is done in the following ways:

• Reduced inflammation
• Enhances insulin sensitivity
• Improves blood triglyceride levels
• Improved balance of blood sugar

If all the above factors are adequately controlled, coupled with regular exercise and a proper diet, the chances of contracting diabetes can be minimised.

In a study conducted on 12 healthy adults, a significant reduction in blood sugar was noted after administering HCA.

Studies conducted on mice have indicated an efficient breakdown of blood glucose.

4. Higher energy levels

Source:Healthline

People who regularly consume Garcinia Cambogia have noted an increased energy level as compared to before.

This is because HCA changes your body metabolism. 

It helps to convert excess carbohydrate into energy instead of storing it as body fat.

This may not have any direct relation with weight loss. However, if you feel more active and energised throughout the day, you will be motivated to exercise on a regular basis.

The logic here is quite simple: the more calories you burn, the more weight you will lose.  

Stop worrying about getting an increase in appetite after a workout, as we have already discussed that HCA in Garcinia helps in lowering excess hunger.

5. Anti-Ageing Properties

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When it comes to anti-ageing properties, Garcinia Cambogia is very effective. 

Studies have shown that several components present in Garcinia effectively help to remove wrinkles, enhancing skin elasticity.

The anti-ageing compounds present in Garcinia helps to repair the skin and delay signs of ageing. People who consume this supplement on a regular basis have noticed an enhanced glow in their skin, making it look smoother and younger.

6. Fights off Oxidative Stress

Source: Scientific animations

Oxidative stress is a long term contributor to chronic health conditions such as diabetes, heart problems and cancer.

Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance of antioxidants and free radicals in the body.

When free radicals are left unmanaged in the body, the likelihood of developing serious diseases drastically increases. This will also result in damage to cells and tissues, which is a prime contributing factor to ageing.

Being a citrus fruit, vitamin C and Xanthones are available in abundance in Garcinia. Vitamin C and Xanthones help to fight off free radicals in the body, relieving your body from oxidative stress.

7. Enhances the function of the immune system

Source: Everydayhealth

Garcinia is an excellent panacea for boosting the immune system function.

Due to the high concentration of Vitamin C, this supplement can improve the body’s response to diseases, illness and infections.

This could also shorten the duration of any sickness, such as infections or common flu.

8. Improves gut health

Modern lifestyle, spicy food, antibiotics and various medications are known to kill healthy gut bacteria, resulting in poor digestive health.

Various studies were able to prove that poor gut health is one of the prime factors that lead to oxidative stress in the body.

Cell damage caused by free radicals is a major contributing factor for ageing and several diseases like cardiovascular disease, cataracts, immune system decline, brain dysfunction and cancer.

Fortunately, Garnicia contains several antioxidants which control the formation of free radicals naturally.

Several compounds present in it are useful in rebuilding the inner lining of your stomach and reducing acidity. This will, in turn, help to maintain good gut health.

For people who are struggling with acidity or gastric ulcers, taking Garcinia helps to manage the secretion of acid and heal the ulcers at a faster pace.

9. Helps to regulate Bowel Movements

People who are struggling with inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis, or Crohn’s disease have difficulty with their bowel movements.

Garnica has several components with anti-inflammatory properties. 

This can help people who are struggling with various diseases relating to the intestinal tract, thereby promoting healthy bowel movements.

10. Helps to reduce stress levels

Modern day lifestyles are causing a rise in depression. Studies have shown that the number of youngsters who are struggling with depression is on a steady growth path.

Serotonin is a chemical that has a vital role in several functions of the human body. Scientists often refer to this chemical as happy chemicals as it plays a significant role in happiness and general well being.

One of the main functions of serotonin is to transmit messages between the nerve cells and constricting smooth muscles.

Low levels of serotonin are linked with anxiety and depression. As the levels of serotonin in the blood increases, so does your mood and overall sense of well being.

Uplifted levels of this neurotransmitter in the blood also help to kill depression and improve moods. Many antidepressants available in the market mimic the effects of serotonin.

Once the veil of depression is lifted, people will feel happier and are less likely to run for food.

Please note that people who are suffering from severe depression will not experience much change in their mood after taking Garcinia. However, people with mild anxiety and depression disorders will find a significant improvement after regular intakes of this supplement.

11. Supports in inducing Ketosis

Source: Gardenrain

Ketosis is a metabolic process which occurs when the body does not have enough glucose. To maintain health functions, the body will start to burn fat instead of carbohydrates.

Some people who are on a weight loss plan follow a ketogenic diet by minimising the intake of carbohydrates, thereby forcing the body to burn off the unwanted fat.

The HCA present in Garcinia alters the body metabolism and inhibits the body from storing carbohydrate as fat. Thus, consuming Garcinia helps to put your body in a state of Ketosis minimising the chances of unwanted weight gain.

12. Helps to dissolve kidney stones

Source:Hopkinsmedicine

In certain scientific studies, it has been noted that HCA found in Garcinia Cambogia helps to limit the production of calcium oxalate crystals.

Some researchers have verified that HCA was able to completely dissolve the stones without the use of any additional medications.

Final Words

Garcinia Cambogia is a wonder fruit which not only helps to shed extra pounds of unwanted weight but also improves overall health.

Having understood the benefits of taking Garcinia, it is time for you to try for yourself and gain the first-hand experience of the benefits.

Make sure to choose a high-quality product to derive the full benefits.

References

Westerterp Plantenga M S, Kovacs E M R, ( 26 June 2002) The Effect of (-)-Hydroxycitrate on Energy Intake and Satiety in Overweight Humans, Clinical trial Available at https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12037659/ [Accessed 4 June 2020]

Li Oon Chuah, Wan Yong Ho, Boon Kee Beh, and Swee Keong Yeap( 6 August 2013) Updates on Antiobesity Effect of Garcinia Origin (−)-HCA, Evid Based Complement Alternat Med.  Available at  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3748738/ [Accessed 4 June 2020]