Hydroxycitric Acid (HCA)

Hydroxycitric Acid For Weight Loss

Hydroxycitric acid (or HCA) is a derivative of citric acid, and a compound found in Garcinia cambogia, a tropical plant. HCA is used principally to support weight loss and does this in a few distinct ways. Notably, HCA can halt the activity of enzymes responsible for fat accumulation, as well as helps suppress appetite and control cravings by up-regulating serotonin. This has the effect of directly curbing appetite, thus decreasing food cravings, and prolonging satiety. HCA has been shown to encourage the metabolism of stored fat, most notably abdominal fat, which is a major risk factor for Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, stroke, heart disease, and unhealthy cell growth, so supplementation also serves to promote overall health.

Interestingly, HCA has been demonstrated to play a key role not only in lipid metabolism, but also glycemia, by delaying intestinal glucose absorption, which prevents spikes in blood sugar, this of course is key when trying to lose weight by curbing cravings, and keeping you feeling full longer. Last but by no means least, HCA has been shown to help optimize blood lipid profiles by reducing total cholesterol, bad (LDL) cholesterol, triglycerides, and leptin (a hormone made by fat cells). Therefore, not only helps protect cardiovascular health but also helps reduce appetite (by down-regulating leptin).

Benefits of Hydroxycitric Acid

• Blocks Fat Production
• Prevents Sugar Cravings
• Prolongs Satiety
• Promotes Weight Loss
• Suppresses Appetite

Who Should Take Hydroxycitric Acid?

HCA is ideal for those seeking to shed a few pounds, especially when used in combination with a comprehensive weight loss protocol that includes a healthy diet, plenty of lean protein, a reduction in caloric intake, as well as an increase in physical activity. HCA may be especially beneficial for those that feel like they are always “hangry” (irritable as a result of hunger), or who have frequent, hard to resist sugar cravings. People who carry most of their fat around the middle (belly fat) would also be great candidates for HCA supplementation, to help them eliminate said fat, and protect overall health.

Hydroxycitric Acid Supplements For Weight Loss

HCA supplements are available in isolated form in capsules or tablets, or in the form of Garcinia cambogia, a rich source of HCA, in a range of formats including pills, powder, and liquid, all in a wide range of potencies. Though the recommended daily dosing can vary, it is usually in the 500 to 1000 mg range, to be taken in divided doses before meals.

Isolated HCA supplements are typically standardized to 20–60% HCA, though studies suggest that a 50–60% concentration may provide more benefits.

Final Thoughts

HCA has been shown to be generally well-tolerated; however, some people may experience side effects such as GI symptoms, headaches, and skin rash. Doses far in excess of the recommended dose can cause testicular atrophy, and low sperm count, as well as liver issues in certain individuals. Those on diabetes medication or statins should consult with their health professional before use.

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