garcinia cambogia

Garcinia cambogia is a tropical tree that grows throughout Asia, Africa, and the Polynesian islands. Its fruit rind contains hydroxycitric acid (HCA), the compound used in supplements, and the fruit itself has long been used in cooking. Sellers claim that HCA reduces the formation of new fat cells, suppresses appetite, and limits weight gain.

The evidence does not support the weight-loss marketing claims. The NIH Office of Dietary Supplements states plainly that "Garcinia cambogia has little to no effect on weight loss." NCCIH similarly says it is unclear whether garcinia cambogia products help with weight loss, noting that some evidence suggests a modest effect while other evidence shows no effect, and that more research is needed. Any benefit appears small at best and is not well established. This supplement should not be relied on to treat obesity or any medical condition.

There is no established or government-recommended dose. The small, short studies that exist used varying amounts of HCA, and because dietary supplements are not reviewed by the FDA for safety or effectiveness before sale, actual product contents can vary. Talk with your health care provider before taking garcinia cambogia, especially if you have liver problems, diabetes, or high blood pressure, or if you take any medications.

Be cautious. While the NIH Office of Dietary Supplements describes garcinia cambogia as seeming "fairly safe," NCCIH warns that it "may be unsafe," including in multi-ingredient products. Importantly, NCCIH reports that several cases of liver damage have been linked to garcinia cambogia products; some were severe, although this appears to be uncommon. Little is known about its safety during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so avoid use in those situations unless a clinician advises otherwise. Stop use and seek medical care right away if you notice possible signs of liver trouble, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or abdominal pain.

More common reported side effects include headache, nausea, and digestive complaints affecting the stomach and intestines (such as diarrhea), as well as upper-respiratory symptoms. The most serious concern, though uncommon, is liver injury reported in people taking garcinia cambogia products, including some multi-ingredient weight-loss formulas.

According to NCCIH, interactions have been reported between garcinia cambogia and some medications that affect the liver, as well as some drugs that affect serotonin levels (such as certain antidepressants); there are also theoretical reasons to suspect it could interact with other drugs. Because many weight-loss products combine several untested ingredients, tell your health care provider about everything you take so they can help you avoid supplement-drug interactions.