Hydroxycitric acid is a popular additive in weight-loss products. It is derived from the Garcinia cambogie tree, found in Asia, and has been experimentally shown to cause weight loss in mice, but its effectiveness in humans is under debate. There have been conflicting results in studies done to quantify the weight-loss potential in humans.
Original Use
Hydroxycitric acid was originally used as a food preservative and as a flavoring. Its properties include making foods seem more filling and increasing flatulence.
Popular Use
As early as the 1970s, scientists began testing Hydroxycitric acid on mice as a way to facilitate weight loss. Experiments confirmed that large doses of Hydroxycitric acid can create a loss of appetite and weight loss in mice. It has since been used in a number of weight-loss products with limited results.
How It Works
Carbohydrates are converted into fatty acids in the blood, leading to weight gain. Hydroxycitric acid suppresses the enzyme used to convert the carbohydrates, thus lowering the amount of fatty acids in the blood. It also stimulates production of glucose, which suppresses appetite.
Does It Work?
There have been several studies on the weight-loss potential of Hydroxycitric acid, and the results have been conflicting. Some studies have shown no difference between people taking a placebo and people taking Hydroxycitric acid, but other studies have shown a small increase in weight loss.
Dosage
The key to Hydroxycitric acid may be in the dosage. The mice were given excessive doses in their diet, far above those used in traditional weight-loss products. The doses given to the mice have not been proved to be safe for humans.
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