Weight Management
Garcinia Cambogia (HCA)
Hugely popular but modestly evidenced. HCA inhibits fat synthesis and may reduce appetite. Meta-analyses show small but real effects; not a fat-loss solution on its own.
Effective Dose
1500–3000mg HCA / day
per clinical evidence
Evidence Level
Limited
Weight Management
Mechanism
ATP-citrate lyase inhibition → reduced fatty acid synthesis
primary action
Best For
Fat synthesis inhibition
Appetite suppression
This profile is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications.
What Is Garcinia Cambogia (HCA)?
Hydroxycitric acid (HCA) from Garcinia cambogia rind inhibits ATP-citrate lyase — the enzyme that converts citrate to acetyl-CoA, the building block of fatty acid synthesis. This was theorised to reduce fat accumulation and suppress appetite via serotonin elevation.
How It Works: The Science
ATP-citrate lyase inhibition prevents cytosolic acetyl-CoA production, reducing substrate availability for de novo lipogenesis (new fat synthesis). HCA may also increase serotonin levels by inhibiting serotonin reuptake, contributing to appetite reduction. However, de novo lipogenesis contributes only a small fraction of body fat in Western diets — dietary fat is stored more directly.
Primary Mechanism
ATP-citrate lyase inhibition → reduced fatty acid synthesis
Evidence-Based Benefits
Dosage Guide
Effective Dose
1500–3000mg HCA / day
1500–3000mg HCA/day (60% HCA standardised extract) before meals. Effect size is too small to justify use as a primary fat-loss strategy.
Safety Profile & Side Effects
Generally safe at standard doses. Rare serious adverse events (hepatotoxicity) reported with some commercial products — possible contaminants. Choose third-party tested products.
Who Should (and Shouldn't) Take It
Not a high-priority supplement. If budget is limited, invest in protein, creatine, and dietary compliance before Garcinia. Use only as a modest appetite adjunct with realistic expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Ingredients
Medical Disclaimer
Ingredient profiles are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications. Full disclaimer →