Hydroxycitric acid is the active ingredient in Garcinia cambogia, a purple fruit native to Southeast Asia, which native peoples have used for thousands of years and have embraced for its soothing effect on digestion and its energy-boosting properties.  On its own, hydroxycitric acid is a form of citric acid that is found in many plant-based ingredients and used in weight loss supplements with great claims of supporting weight loss on multiple levels.

So how does it work?  Well, the basis for the hydroxycitric acid-weight loss claims is largely inspired by animal studies that show an increase in fat burning or modulation when it is taken.  Hydroxycitric acid is thought to inhibit the body’s ability to store fat and then the body supposedly passes the extra fat out through the stool instead of storing it in the body. Hydroxycitric acid is also thought to increase the body’s natural fat burning by causing the body to use its stored fat as ready energy during exercise.  It is also said that the increase in serotonin which happens after taking hydroxycitric acid causes the body to suppress the appetite—all pretty incredible actions when it comes to weight loss!  It acts to suppress appetite and best of all, there are no known side effects and it is inexpensive.  As an ingredient, Garcinia Cambogia is a standardized form of hydroxycitric acid. The dosage of hydroxycitric acid has been studied at 250 mg up to 1000 mg; Garcinia Cambogia contains about 50 mg of hydroxycitric Acid per serving.  Remember that Like any weight loss product, you should commit to a consistent exercise regimen and adhere to a well balanced and healthy diet for the best effects from this ingredient.