The effects of HCA remain controversial. For example, in a study of Zucker rats, which are lab rats genetically prone to obesity, high doses of Garcinia did suppress fat synthesis, but also caused testicular atrophy and injury in the rodents. This would lead to lower testosterone synthesis. But a follow-up 2008 study that involved human subjects who ingested 1,000 milligrams a day of either HCA or a placebo for 12 weeks found no effects of HCA on testosterone or estrogen.
The latest study of oral HCA shows an effect that may interest all those engaged in intense exercise. The study consisted of 8 men, average age, 22, who cycled for 60 minutes at an intensity of 70-75% of maximum oxygen intake. The men consumed either 500 milligrams of HCA or a placebo with a high carbohydrate meal containing 80% carbs, 8% fat, and 12% protein. Tests showed that those who consumed the HCA with the carbs showed a significantly greater synthesis of glycogen following the exercise. The HCA also veered energy usage more toward fat oxidation, and increased post-meal insulin sensitivity.The increased glycogen synthesis rate induced by HCA would speed exercise recovery by filling up depleted muscle glycogen levels more rapidly.
Chenga, S et al. Oral hydroxycitrate supplementation enhances glycogen synthesis in exercised human skeletal muscle.Br J Nut; 2011: in press.
©,2013 Jerry Brainum. Any reprinting in any type of media, including electronic and foreign is expressly prohibited.
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