Garcinia Cambogia-A Weight Loss Aid
Garcinia cambogia is a newly discovered wonder-supplement proven to bring amazing weight loss results (when used as recommended as part of a clean eating and exercise program).
Garcinia cambogia is a fruit of the gummi-gutta tree, native to Southeast Asia, and has been used in Southeast Asian native cooking for centuries. However, its efficacy as a weight loss supplement has only been discovered and studied over the past decade.
Although the ingredient is still being extensively studied, trials have found the product to be effective thus far. It has also not been shown to cause adverse side effects.
The key, active ingredient in garcinia cambogia is hydroxycitric acid (HCA). This is the micronutrient that raises the level of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is an important neurotransmitter in the brain that facilitates our day to day normal functioning, and is especially influential in weight management. It regulates our appetite, sleep, sexual desire, mood, and energy levels.
Those with lower levels of serotonin are found to have larger appetites, lower energy levels, may have trouble sleeping, and are more prone to depression. All of these are contributing factors to weight gain.
Since hydroxycitric acid (HCA) increases serotonin, it is responsible for weight loss primarily through the reduction of appetite, the increase of energy, and the improvement of sleep. However, HCA goes further to combat weight gain.
HCA has also been proven to inhibit lipogenesis – the process by which the body creates and deposits fat. Therefore, garcinia cambogia can also help you lose weight beyond dieting and exercising by limiting the body’s ability to store fat.
Garcinia Lean XTreme
Garcinia Lean Xtreme is one of the prominent garcinia cambogia supplement brands.
Blend and Ingredients
This particular brand of is a special blend of garcinia cambogia containing 60% HCA as well as green coffee bean extract, another weight loss stimulant. This combination is claimed to make it more effective.
It claims to be developed in state-of-the art labs, free from chemical additives, binders, or fillers and it claims not to cause any side effects.
Performance
Garcinia Lean XTreme has been given mixed reviews based on its performance with some people claiming to lose large amounts of weight in little time, to people claiming to see no visible results at all.
Order System and Subscription Service
The main trepidation that many have with this brand is not its quality, but the price and ordering system, which many believe to be a scam.
The product can only be ordered online through their website for a 14-day trial. This costs $4.95 (or $9.95 for expedited shipping). At the end of the trial, your credit card will be billed the full price of the product, which is a whopping $79.31 for a 30-day supply.
Compared to many competitor prices, this is considered quite steep. This becomes a standard order and you will be billed every 30 days and a new supply sent to you.
The only way to cancel your membership is to contact their customer service center. Many users complain that they have much trouble getting through to this service and have endless hassles in trying to cancel their subscription, leaving many to come to the conclusion that it is a scam.
Garcinia Lean XTreme comes with a 30-day refund policy, should you be unsatisfied. However there is a catch. The product has to be returned unopened and unused. It is impossible to determine whether the product is unsuccessful if you cannot use it.
Is it the Best Option?
While the garcinia cambogia itself can be useful, this particular brand is too pricey and the unreliable subscription service may prove too problematic for most to even consider this option.
Fortunately, there are alternative brands of garcinia cambogia that can be purchased online or in several health stores.
What to Look For in a Garcinia Cambogia Supplement
Now that this miracle ingredient is widely gaining popularity, there are many manufacturers introducing their brand of garcinia cambogia to the market. With this incredible variety available, we really have to practice discernment as some of these brands may be wonderful, but there are sure to be some dubious brands out there as well.
Here are the key factors to consider when choosing a good brand of garcinia cambogia:
- FDA-approved
- Natural ingredients – avoid products which contain harmful chemical fillers and artificial flavorings
- A good proportion of hydroxycitric acid
- Complimentary ingredients which support uptake and bioavailability
- Vegetarian and vegan options
Side Effects of Garcinia Cambogia
Although garcinia cambogia has not been proven to cause any harmful side effects, it is best to proceed with caution should you experience a bad reaction.
Some of the added ingredients in the supplements may cause a bad reaction or you may have an aversion to it.
Some users of various brands of garcinia cambogia have complained of stomach cramps, migraines, or have not had any weight loss results at all. This is why it is important to stick to the recommended dosage and to consult your physician before continuing should you experience any adverse reactions.
Here are three recommended alternatives to Garcinia Lean XTreme:
1. BioGanix 100% Pure Garcinia Cambogia Extract
BioGanix is one of the highest quality brands of garcinia cambogia. This brand is highly rated and has many satisfied customers. Not only does this brand offer a 100% money back guarantee, they throw in a natural health book upon purchase.
- Contains 60% HCA
- FDA approved
- No additives
2. Purely Inspired 100% Pure Garcinia Cambogia
Purely Inspired 100% Pure Garcinia Cambogia is a unique blend of garcinia cambogia and premium green coffee. This combination makes it a potent weight loss supplement. It is additive-free and comes in the form of veggie tablets. Because of the high caffeine content, it may not be recommended for those who are sensitive to caffeine and those prone to migraines.
- 200mg of premium green tea extract
- Gluten free
- Third party tested for purity and potency
3. Biogenetic Laboratories Garcinia Trim Natural Fat-Loss Support and Appetite Reduction with Garcinia Cambogia
Biogenetic Laboratories Garcinia Trim makes use of a pure form of garcinia cambogia in this product. It is also free from additives and stimulants, which many other weight loss supplements may contain.
- Contains 60% hydroxycitric acid (HCA)
- Gluten-free and non-GMO
- No artificial additives
Final Thoughts
Garcinia cambogia can be a powerful weight loss aid when used correctly, as part of a proper diet and exercise regimen. It is also important to choose the right brand very carefully. Hopefully the guidelines above will be helpful in making the best decision for you.
Diana Paul is a certified nutritionist who writes for leading health blogs. She is a master herbalist, yoga teacher, forager, and wild-crafting writer She is focused on helping people transform life blocks to opportunities. Based in NYC, she often holds health seminars and lectures.