Vouched for by public figures like Dr. Oz, this dietary supplement has helped many achieve their weight loss goals. Even so, there are those who disbelieve the claims made about this supplement. This article will break down everything you need to know about Garcinia Cambogia, including what it is, how it works, and if it really is effective.

What is Garcinia Cambogia?

Garcinia Cambogia is a type of citrus fruit. This fruit is native to the area of Southeast Asia, where the rind has been used in culinary dishes for centuries. Garcinia Cambogia’s popularity as a dietary supplement stems from its ability to reduce appetite, thus allowing individuals to feel fuller after eating.

What is Hydroxycitric Acid (HCA)?

HCA is found in the rind of this citrus fruit. Scientists exploring the effects of Garcinia Cambogia on hunger have isolated this as the key ingredient. Read on to the next section that will explain exactly how HCA works.
How Garcinia Cambogia Works for Weight Loss

#1: It Blocks the Formation of Fat
When your body has unused energy stores, usually in the form of glucose, it converts it to fat and stores it in the body. This is done using an enzyme called citrate lyase. Garcinia Cambogia stops the body from producing citrate lyase enzymes. This prevents your body from storing extra energy stores as fat, instead encouraging it to be used up as energy for your cells or brain.

#2: It Prevents Binge Eating and Reduces Food Cravings
Often, the reason for chronic over-eating relates to emotional health. The HCA in Garcinia Cambogia boosts serotonin levels in the brain, making it less likely that you are going to turn to food to improve your emotional health. This effectively reduced food cravings and stops you from overeating, since you will have more control to stop once you are full.
Higher serotonin levels in the brain also increase serotonin levels in the blood. The benefit of this is that serotonin is a proven appetite suppressant. Scientists believe this is one reason that Garcinia Cambogia may work.

#3: It Increases Metabolism
When you eat, the citrate lyase enzyme often targets carbohydrates and turns them into energy and then fat. Since this enzyme does not exist when taking Garcinia Cambogia, your body turns to your fat stores instead. Your fat stores are burned as energy, especially in hard-to-lose-weight areas like the tummy, thighs, and arms. This results in an increased metabolism and ability to burn your food for fuel faster.

#4: It Improves Energy Levels
The serotonin levels that help prevent emotional overeating can also be boosted to provide your body with more energy. The major benefit of this is that even though you are eating less, you will feel great. Improved energy levels also can give you the extra boost you need to be more active. You may find yourself wanting to move around more or motivated enough to workout. 

This does not mean that you must workout to experience the benefits of Garcinia Cambogia, but it will increase the results of your weight loss efforts.

So, what’s the final verdict? Garcinia Cambogia can help with weight loss by boosting serotonin levels, decreasing appetite, preventing fat storage, and boosting energy levels. The results depend on your lifestyle, as well as the brand of supplement you choose to take. Choose a high-quality Garcinia Cambogia supplement with a high concentration of HCA for the best results and always consult with a doctor if you are taking any medications or have a pre-existing medical condition.