Have you heard about Garcinia cambogia? It seems like everyone is talking about this tropical fruit extract, but what exactly are the benefits and side effects? In this blog post, we will take a closer look at Garcinia cambogia and what medications should you not take with Garcinia Cambogia. Keep reading to learn more!
What is Garcinia Cambogia?
Garcinia Cambogia is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia. Its active ingredient, hydroxycitric acid (HCA), is what has made it so popular in recent years. HCA has been shown to increase serotonin levels in the brain, which can help reduce appetite and cravings. It also inhibits an enzyme called citrate lyase, which the body uses to create fat. This makes Garcinia Cambogia a potential weight loss aid.
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How does hydroxycitric acid from Garcinia Cambogia work?
The natural fruit acid Hydroxycitric acid (HCA) from the peel of the tropical plant Garcinia Cambogia increases combustion and thermogenesis and reduces appetite.
HCA also slows down the action of the enzyme citrate lyase. Citrate lyase catalyzes the conversion of ATP to ADP and releases energy. The body needs glucose to produce new ATP. Taking HCA slows down the conversion of ATP to ADP.
As a result, the need for new energy is lower. Citrate lyase is the most abundant in the liver and partially counteracts the production of fatty acids. As a result, the liver produces less fat, leaving large amounts of energy available at the cellular level. This contributes to the breakdown of fatty acids.
The conversion of carbohydrates (sugars) and proteins into fat (cholesterol, triglycerides and other fatty acids) and thus the build-up of body fat and body cholesterol is inhibited by hydroxy citric acid.
What science says about Garcinia Cambogia’s benefits?
Several studies have shown that Garcinia cambogia plays an important role in regulating endogenous fat synthesis. Supplementation leads to more optimal body weight and fat loss in both laboratory animals and humans.
In addition, no side effects were reported among participants in the studies. However, interactions with natural and regular medicines are possible.
What you should know about Garcinia Cambogia
But while Garcinia Cambogia may have some benefits for weight loss, it is important to note that it is not a miracle cure. Many Garcinia Cambogia supplements on the market have not been tested for safety and efficacy; some may even contain harmful additives or fillers.
Additionally, Garcinia Cambogia can have some negative side effects, especially when taken in high doses. These can include nausea, digestive issues, headaches, and even liver damage in rare cases.
It is also important to note that Garcinia Cambogia should not be considered a substitute for a healthy diet and exercise. While it may have some benefits for weight loss, these will only be effective if you are also making lifestyle changes. Additionally, Garcinia Cambogia may interact with certain medications, so it is important to speak with your doctor before taking any supplements.
If you decide to try Garcinia Cambogia, choosing a reputable brand with high-quality ingredients is important. Look for a supplement that contains pure Garcinia Cambogia extract with a high percentage of HCA, and avoid any that contain fillers or additives. Additionally, start with a low dose and gradually increase it as needed while monitoring your body for any negative side effects.
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What medications should you not take with Garcinia Cambogia?
Garcinia Cambogia is a fruit extract that has been used as a weight loss supplement. While it is generally considered safe, some potential interactions with certain medications exist. Some medications that may interact with Garcinia Cambogia include:
1. Antidepressants: Garcinia Cambogia can increase the levels of serotonin in the brain, and taking it along with antidepressants that also increase serotonin levels may lead to a dangerous condition called serotonin syndrome.
2. Diabetes medications: Garcinia Cambogia may lower blood sugar levels, and taking it with diabetes medications that also lower blood sugar levels may lead to hypoglycemia.
3. Statins: Garcinia Cambogia may increase the risk of rhabdomyolysis, a serious condition that can cause muscle breakdown, when taken with statins.
4. Blood thinners: Garcinia Cambogia may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with blood thinners.
It is important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking any new supplements or medications, including Garcinia Cambogia. They can help you determine if it is safe for you to take and can advise you on any potential interactions with other medications you may be taking.
Is Garcinia Cambogia safe while breastfeeding?
Pregnant or breastfeeding women are generally recommended to avoid taking Garcinia Cambogia, as there is not enough research available to determine its safety in these populations.
The safety of Garcinia Cambogia during breastfeeding has not been established, and there is a lack of reliable information on its effects on breastfed infants. Additionally, Garcinia Cambogia may lower blood sugar levels and could potentially affect milk supply, which could be a concern for breastfeeding mothers.
If you are breastfeeding and considering taking Garcinia Cambogia or any other supplement or medication, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider first.
Does Garcinia Cambogia affect blood pressure?
There is some evidence to suggest that Garcinia Cambogia may have an effect on blood pressure.
Some studies have suggested that Garcinia Cambogia may lower blood pressure, while others have found no significant effect. A study published in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that taking Garcinia Cambogia extract for 12 weeks was associated with a significant decrease in blood pressure in overweight individuals.
However, more research is needed to understand the effects of Garcinia Cambogia on blood pressure fully. Additionally, it is important to note that individual results may vary, and the effects of Garcinia Cambogia may depend on various factors, such as dosage, duration of use, and individual health status.
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Where to buy Garcinia Cambogia?
Garcinia Cambogia supplements are widely available in many health food stores, online retailers, and pharmacies. It is important to purchase Garcinia Cambogia supplements from a reputable and trustworthy source to ensure that the product is safe and effective.
When purchasing Garcinia Cambogia supplements, read the label carefully and check the ingredients to ensure that the product contains pure Garcinia Cambogia extract and no harmful additives or fillers.
Additionally, be aware that some manufacturers may make false or misleading claims about the effectiveness of their products, so it is important to do your research and read reviews from other customers before making a purchase.
As always, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking any new supplements or medications, including Garcinia Cambogia, to ensure that it is safe for you to take and will not interact with any other medications or health conditions you may have.
