The small pumpkin-shaped fruit of the Garcinia Cambogia tree is a source to so many health benefits ranging from simple weight loss and metabolism process promotion to the prevention of serious health conditions including deadly cancers and lifestyle-associated Diabetes Mellitus Type II. For decades, studies have been conducted on Garcinia cambogia extract as a potential solution for obesity and overweight conditions. While most studies were conducted on animal subjects and are limited to quantitative findings, qualitative researches on human subjects are sought to be initiated in the years to come. Many associated health benefits have also been discovered in the course of researches aimed at determining the effects of Garcinia cambogia extract on metabolism. There is no health risk associated with regular supplementation of Garcinia cambogia extract but it can cause liver damage with long-term overdose.
What is Garcinia cambogia extract?
Garcinia cambogia extract is a health supplement ingredient containing high amounts of essential compounds which effectively promote healthy metabolism. The most commonly known active component of the extract is the compound HCA or Hydroxycitric Acid. This compound helps prevent accumulation of fats in body tissues and cellular key receptors, which in turn results to effective burning of stored fats. By enhancing metabolism, blood sugar levels are also observed to be lowered with Garcinia cambogia extract supplementation. Long-term reduction in blood sugar levels helps prevent development of Diabetes Mellitus and the manifestation of its symptoms among patients who are already diagnosed with the condition. Garcinia cambogia extract is also found to have certain effects in neuropsychological responses.
Health benefits of taking Garcinia cambogia extract supplements
Although it is mostly promoted as a weight loss supplement, Garcinia cambogia extract is established by experts to have many other health benefits. The other uses of Garcinia cambogia extract in the field of alternative medicine include the following:
- It may increase energy levels
Effective metabolism and supplication of glucose in body cells result to increased energy levels and production of heat in the body. Athletes and bodybuilders usually take Garcinia cambogia extract as it helps enhance energy levels and prevents exhaustion and fatigue.
- It may help cure depression
Recent studies also show that Garcinia cambogia extract may have certain effects in increasing serotonin levels in the body. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter which directly enhances mood and prevents depression and anxiety.
- It reduces stress side effects
Stress may result from sudden up-shoot of the hormone cortisol in the human body. In one study, experts observed that individuals who take Garcinia cambogia extract are at lower risk for stress side effects as the compounds in the extract effectively reduce cortisol, thereby preventing stress.
Conclusion
Garcinia cambogia extract is not just indicated for individuals who need to lose weight but also among those who are at high risk for cardiovascular conditions. Overdose of Garcinia cambogia extract may result to dangerous side effects.
