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WeightCited

Garcinia Cambogia for Obesity

C

Meta-analysis of 12 RCTs found small weight loss of 0.88 kg. However, the landmark JAMA trial (n=135) found no significant difference versus placebo. Cochrane concluded evidence is 'equivocal at best.' Notable hepatotoxicity concerns exist, particularly in multi-ingredient products.

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The Bottom Line

            
            
Meta-analysis of 12 RCTs found small weight loss of 0.88 kg. However, the landmark JAMA trial (n=135) found no significant difference versus placebo. Cochrane concluded evidence is 'equivocal at best.' Notable hepatotoxicity concerns exist, particularly in multi-ingredient products.

            
            
        

    











    
    

        
        

            

  
Key Statistics





            


    

        
12

        
Studies

    

    

        
800

        
Participants

    

    

        
            
            ↔
            
        
        
Mixed

    

    

        C

        
Grade

    




        


        
        

        
        
        

            

  
Dosage & Usage





            
mg = milligrams · mcg = micrograms (1,000× smaller) · IU = International Units


            
            

                
Commonly Used Dosages

                

                    
                    

                        
general:

                        
500-1,500 mg HCA/day (standardized to 50-60% HCA)

                    

                    
                    

                        
weightmanagement:

                        
1,500-2,800 mg HCA/day in divided doses

                    

                    
                

                
                

                    Upper limit: 2,800 mg HCA/day; hepatotoxicity cases reported (often in multi-ingredient products)
                

                
            

            

            

            
            

                Best taken: 30-60 minutes before meals
            

            
        

        

        
        
        

            

  
Safety & Side Effects





            

                
                

                    
Reported Side Effects

                    
    
                        
                        
  • 
                            ⚠
                            Headache
                        
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                            ⚠
                            GI discomfort
                        
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                            ⚠
                            Liver toxicity (reported in multi-ingredient products)
                        
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  • 
                            ⚠
                            Nausea
                        
    • 
                        
                    

                

                

                
                

                    
Known Interactions

                    
    
                        
                        
  • 
                            ●
                            Diabetes medications (may affect blood sugar)
                        
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                            ●
                            Statins (potential liver concern)
                        
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  • 
                            ●
                            SSRIs (theoretical serotonergic interaction)
                        
    • 
                        
                    

                

                

                
                

                    

                        Tolerable upper intake: 2,800 mg HCA/day; hepatotoxicity cases reported (often in multi-ingredient products)
                    

                

                
            

            

                Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement.
            

        

        

        
        
        

            

  
Frequently Asked Questions





            




    
    

        
            Does Garcinia Cambogia help with Obesity?
            
        
        

            Based on 12 studies with 800 participants, there is limited but promising evidence that Garcinia Cambogia may support Obesity management. Our evidence grade is C (Some Evidence).
        

    

    
    

        
            How much Garcinia Cambogia should I take for Obesity?
            
        
        

            Studies have used various dosages. A commonly studied range is 500-1,500 mg HCA/day (standardized to 50-60% HCA). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.
        

    

    
    

        
            Are there side effects of Garcinia Cambogia?
            
        
        

            Reported side effects may include Headache, GI discomfort, Liver toxicity (reported in multi-ingredient products), Nausea. Most side effects are mild and dose-dependent. Consult your doctor if you experience any adverse reactions.
        

    

    
    

        
            How strong is the evidence for Garcinia Cambogia and Obesity?
            
        
        

            We rate the evidence as Grade C (Some Evidence). This rating is based on 12 peer-reviewed studies with 800 total participants. The overall direction of effect is mixed.
        

    

    




        

        

        
        
        

            

  
Related Evidence





            

                
                
                

                
            

        

        

    


    
    












    

        FDA Disclaimer:
        These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.