Garcinia cambogia is reputed to do all sorts of wonderful things for the body. The hydroxycitric acid inside its rind is supposed to help with weight loss by blocking enzymes that produce fat and by raising serotonin levels in the brain to curb hunger. It can also lower blood glucose levels and improve both good and bad cholesterol. But every miracle cure comes with a price, and this one is no different.
According to the makers of the garcinia cambogia weight loss supplement, their products are “amongst the most natural and therefore safest dietary supplements on the market.” In fact, they claim it is so safe that there are absolutely no side effects. The catch, however, is that their studies left out animportant component, namely time. Since the majority of the trials run only lasted for about 3 months, there is no evidence supporting this lack of negative consequences. They even go so far as to recommend ceasing use every twelve weeks.
Short-Term Side Effects
Some research has shown that taking garcinia cambogia can result in headaches, dry mouth, dizziness, rashes, upset stomach, or diarrhea. However, other research suggested those effects were only present when one particular brand was used.
Some people have also mentioned sleeplessness was an issue after beginning the supplement. This, however, is in large part due to a lack of exercise; because garcinia cambogia reduces appetite, the body breaks down stored fats to get more energy, since it gets less from food intake. When users don’t work out while using it, they don’t burn the extra energy and don’t sleep as well.
Long-Term Side Effects
In the long term, research about garcinia cambogia is mixed. The FDA warned the public against it because a specific supplement was causing liver damage. Further research was done, since other ingredients in the supplement could have been the culprit, but no conclusive answers were reached, suggesting it might be best to stay away for the time being—especially for those who already have liver problems.
Medication Interactions
Some research has claimed garcinia cambogia can lower blood sugar levels, which makes it an appealing option for diabetics. However, it should never be taken without consulting a doctor first. In fact, when used in tandem with insulin or other medications for controlling diabetes, it can actually bring blood sugar down to a dangerous level.
The same is true for its effect on cholesterol. Although it raises the good cholesterol while lowering the bad, people who are already managing their cholesterol through a prescription should consult a doctor first, as the garcinia cambogia can interact badly with some medications. In fact, this supplement interacts badly with quite a few medicines, including allergy pills, iron supplements, pain medication, and blood thinners.
The biggest issue with garcinia cambogia seems to be a significant lack of research. For every claim that it is perfectly safe, there’s another assertion that is poses serious risks, especially to certain people. What can be said with certainty is that no matter what effect someone hopes to derive from the supplement, it is absolutely essential to speak with a doctor before starting it.
