Garcinia Side Effects

Garcinia Side Effects
Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Goodshoot/Getty Images

Garcinia is the shortened name for garcinia mangostana L, commonly known as mangosteen. The horticulture department at Purdue University notes that garcinia was first domesticated in Southeast Asia, with ayurvedic and natural health cures emerging shortly after domestication. Dysentry, eczema, diarrhea, thrush and menstrual pain are examples of ailments where garcinia may be taken according to Purdue University; eMedTV notes its use in weight loss pills, but users should be aware of side effects.

Stomach or Abdominal Pain

Garcinia has been linked to stomach or abdominal pain in users.According to the "American Journal of Physiology & Gastrointestinal Live Physiology," this may be caused by the way that garcinia changes digestive speeds for sugars. Alternatively, it may be linked to garcinia's power as a central nervous system depressant mentioned by Purdue University or garcinia's power as histamine agonist, as reported by the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.

Changes in Blood Sugar Levels

Taking garcinia is associated with changes in blood sugar levels. The changes that occur depend on how the garcinia is consumed. The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center notes that the juice can cause blood sugar spikes due to its high sugar content. "American Journal of Physiology & Gastrointestinal Live Physiology" reports that internally administered garcinia slows the absorption of glucose by the body. The hydroxycitric acid in the garcinia is credited with altering digestion at the enzymatic level, leading to delays in sugar absorption.

Lactic Acidosis

The "American Journal of Kidney Disease" reports that ongoing consumption of garcinia juice may lead to lactic acidosis. Lactic acidosis is a condition where the body is unable to remove enough lactic acid regularly from the blood, resulting in a buildup of the acid in the bloodstream and body tissues. The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center notes that severe lactic acidosis cases have been reported in those using garcinia juices daily for a period of 12 months. Lactic acidosis as a side effect of garcinia can be reversed by stopping consumption and letting the body catch up.

References

Article reviewed by Libby Swope Wiersema Last updated on: Aug 18, 2011

Must see: Photo Galleries

Member Comments