Super Citrimax Review

Super CitrimaxSuper Citrimax contains a standardized level of (-)hydroxycitric acid (HCA), which is extractd from a South Asian fruit Gardinia cambogia. The claim goes that HCA “has been clinically shown to suppress appetite and inhibit fat production, without stimulating the central nervous system.” ((http://www.interhealthusa.com/faqs/citrimax_faqs.aspx))

If you get the jitters from stimulants such as caffeine, or green tea (both effective ingredients for promoting weight loss), then Super Citrimax should be a welcomed ingredient for you. It does not cause jitters, nervousness, or increased blood pressure.

But does it have any research to back it up? You’ll be happy to know that it does:

  • One study done in Thailand split 50 obese women randomly into two groups of 25. One group received HCA, the other received a placebo. Both groups were given the same diet. Over a period of two months, the HCA group lost six pounds compared to the placebo group’s three pounds. It should be noted that six pounds over two months isn’t a lot, but the difference was statistically significant. The decrease in body weight, according to the researchers “was due to a loss of fat storage as evidenced by a significant decrease in the triceps skin fold thickness.” ((Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2007;16(1):25-9.))
  • A study done in 2005 looked at HCA’s effectiveness and its effectiveness when combined with Chromium and Gymnema sylvestre extract (a third group received a placebo). Group A showed reduced body weight and body mass index, suppressed appetite, improved blood lipid profiles, increase serum leptin and serotonin levels and increased fat oxidation. Group B showed even better results. Both Groups A and B showed better results than the placebo group. ((Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2007;16(1):25-9.))
  • The study just previously listed was based on this study, also showing the same results. ((Diabetes Obes Metab. 2004 May;6(3):171-80.))

The research is out there showing Super Citrimax to be an effective ingredient in diet pills. Why don’t we see more of it? Why do we consistently see extremely weak formulas? Because Super Citrimax is expensive and expensive ingredients cut into diet pill maker’s juicy margins.

Hydroxycitric Acid Update

On May 1, 2009 the FDA issued a warning to consumers to stop taking Hydroxycut-branded products. Over more than 7 years they have received 23 reports of health related issues with those taking Hydroxycut-branded products. The main health concern appears to be serious liver-related problems. Iovate Health Sciences Inc., the makers of Hydroxcut, have voluntarily recalled all of the products under question in the FDA’s report

Common symptoms of liver complications include:

  • jaundice (yellowing of the skin)
  • brown urine
  • light colored stools
  • unusual tiredness
  • stomach pain
  • itching
  • loss of appetite
  • weakness
  • vomiting

In light of the recent FDA warning concerning the possible dangers of Hydroxycut-branded diet pills, many believe that the associated health risks are likely due to the inclusion of the commonly used ingredient Hydroxycitric Acid, or HCA. And while according to the FDA, “The agency has not yet determined which ingredients, dosages, or other health-related factors may be associated with risks related to these Hydroxycut products. The products contain a variety of ingredients and herbal extracts.” you can never be too cautious.

So, while further study and research is needed to confirm the link between HCA and the liver problems, until proven otherwise any products that contain HCA are no longer recommended on this website.