Oprah’s resident medic, Dr Mehmet Oz earlier this year gushed about a herb called garcinia cambogia, also known as HCA. Celebs such as Kim Kardashian and Britney Spears are rumoured to have taken it to lose weight.
Oz said it not only helped people feel more full after eating but also cited a small study showing people lost around four pounds a month while taking it. Recently Healthista received this request from a reader:
‘Dear Healthista,
My husband and I are considering taking this supplement garcinia cambogia as we have heard that’s its really good for you as well as aiding in weight loss, lowering cholesterol and blood sugar levels? Can you please give us any information to the contrary and if you would recommend this as a healthy supplement?’
Here’s what nutritional therapist and author Charlotte Watts had to say :
‘Garcinia Cambogia is a pumpkin like fruit related to mangosteen that has had much attention as a supplement for weight loss and appetite reduction. It grows across Asia and came to prominence in the late sixties when high levels of the chemical HCA (hydroxycitric acid) were discovered in its rind. So you may see supplements as Garcinia Cambogia or HCA. Reported to halt an enzyme in the body that converts sugar into stored and circulating fat (lipids), results from studies have been mixed but many people find good results. Most clear effects reported are reduced appetite and some control over sugar cravings, but caution is given to those on diabetic medications as these actions are believed to be a result of lowering blood sugar levels.
Garcinia Cambogia or HCA generally has a good reputation as a safe and effective supplement alongside other blood sugar balancing and weight loss measures (such as ensuring breakfast and lowering sugar intake) but this depends on quality. Supplements from brands with rigourous quality standards and who ensure the source of their products are worth paying that little bit more for. Higher Nature HCA is a reliable product and BioCare Garcinia Cambogia Plus also includes vitamins and minerals that support the metabolic processes it works within.
Such weight loss supplements may have further reaching effects for cholesterol and blood lipid levels, but need to be viewed as additions to the main focus of diet, exercise and relaxation. They are best used as a supportive aid to kick start metabolism and get on top of cravings in the beginning whilst habits are being explored and set in place for the long-term.’
The De-Stress Diet: The Revolutionary Lifestyle Plan for a Calmer, Slimmer You
Charlotte Watts and Anna Magee
Publisher : Hay House UK
Amazon, £9.09
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