Garcinia cambogia has been used for centuries for a variety of reasons. It is a pumpkin like fruit that is quite small in size and grows on the tree from which it takes its name. It is harvested in numerous areas of the world including India and Southeast Asia. It has recently caught the attention of several prominent nutritionists and dietitians with regard to its potential advantages for those who want to shed excess weight. However, certain people want more information about precisely how garcinia cambogia extract works.

As previously mentioned, garcinia fruit has been used by individuals in the Eastern world for centuries. Its primary use was for stomach ailments and as a cure for obesity. It is the latter that has propelled it into the spotlight in Western countries over the past five years.

It is believed that specific properties found in the fruit may have an appetite suppressing effect. In addition, preliminary studies and other evidence indicate that it may also assist the human metabolism to burn fat at a quicker pace. However, additional studies are necessary before this theory is confirmed. Fans of the extract also claim that it creates a full feeling in one's stomach for a long time after the person consumes the supplement. This may help people to control cravings for unhealthy foods and avoid habitual snacking.

New studies have been conducted on the appetite suppressing factor in the extract, which is called HCA, the abbreviation for hydroxy citric acid. This component is already being used in numerous weight loss supplements for the aforementioned purpose and to increase fat burning. However, HCA occurs naturally in the garcinia fruit, which has led many weight loss experts to believe that the effect may be more potent when the fruit extract is consumed than when individuals use synthetic diet pills containing HCA.

The HCA found in the supplement works in various ways. For example, it boosts the dieter's serotonin levels, which subsequently reduces their appetite. It is also believed to decrease the number of fat cells present in a person's body; however, this has not yet been confirmed in clinical studies.

Additionally, properties in the fruit may also block citrate lyase activity. Citrate lyase is an enzyme responsible for converting carbs to stored fat. If this is confirmed when more research is conducted, it may be a major breakthrough in the health and fitness industry, as most people would agree that carbs can ruin essentially any good diet program.

Research is being planned for the future to determine if there are any extra benefits linked to the use of garcinia cambogia. For example, it may potentially lower bad cholesterol levels, as well as boost the moods of individuals suffering from depression. Research is also currently underway to determine if it contains anti-inflammatory properties.

The extract can be purchased online or in most vitamin stores or health food shops. However, it is always a good idea to speak to one's family physician before starting any new supplement. Those interested in learning more about how garcinia cambogia extract works may wish to conduct an online search or visit their local library.