Irvingia Ext
Also known as: African Bush Mango, Bush Mango, Dika Nut, *Irvingia gabonensis*
Overview
Irvingia gabonensis is a tree native to Central and West Africa, renowned for its seeds which are utilized for both nutritional and medicinal purposes. The seed extract is characterized by its high fiber content and is commonly used as a dietary supplement aimed at weight loss and enhanced metabolic health. The primary applications include promoting weight management, improving body composition, and facilitating metabolic health improvements. Research on *Irvingia gabonensis* indicates it may increase fatty acid oxidation while inhibiting fatty acid synthesis, contributing to weight management. Though studies are accumulating, the quality and consistency of research findings remain a concern, necessitating cautious interpretation of the benefits.
Benefits
Research indicates that *Irvingia gabonensis* may aid in weight loss and improving metabolic health markers. A systematic review found an average body weight reduction of 8.71% and waist circumference decrease of 7.6% with supplementation. Additionally, significant improvements in blood lipid profiles, including decreases in total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, and triglycerides, have been documented. These benefits appear most pronounced in overweight or obese individuals. Though beneficial effects on metabolic markers such as leptin and adiponectin levels have been suggested, the overall clinical significance of these improvements varies, with consistency across studies remaining an issue.
How it works
*Irvingia gabonensis* is believed to impact body weight and metabolism by enhancing fatty acid breakdown and inhibiting fatty acid synthesis, potentially mediated through the modulation of adipokines like leptin and adiponectin. It interacts with critical metabolic pathways, influencing fat metabolism and possibly regulating appetite. Specific molecular pathways and absorption dynamics remain inadequately studied, and more research is needed to fully elucidate its mechanism of action.
Side effects
The safety profile of *Irvingia gabonensis* is generally favorable, with few minor adverse events reported. Common side effects may include mild gastrointestinal issues, headaches, and sleep disturbances, occurring in less than 5% of users. Serious side effects or rare events are not well-documented. There is limited information on potential drug interactions, and no specific contraindications are highlighted in the literature. Pregnant or breastfeeding women are advised to consult with healthcare professionals prior to use due to insufficient safety data in these populations.
Dosage
Recommended dosages of *Irvingia gabonensis* seed extract typically range from 150 mg to 300 mg per day, with many studies indicating an optimal daily dose of 300 mg. While no specific timing recommendations for administration are established, it is commonly found in capsule or tablet form. Data on maximum safe dosages are not well-defined, and the effects of high doses have not been thoroughly investigated. Factors affecting absorption remain unclear, and no required cofactors have been identified.
FAQs
Is *Irvingia gabonensis* safe to use?
Generally considered safe, though some may experience minor side effects like headache or gastrointestinal discomfort.
How should I take *Irvingia gabonensis*?
No specific timing is recommended, but a daily dosage of 300 mg is commonly studied.
What results can I expect?
Users may notice weight loss and improvements in metabolic health within several weeks of consistent use.
Why is there uncertainty around its weight loss efficacy?
Methodological limitations in existing studies contribute to uncertainty about its effectiveness.
Can pregnant women take *Irvingia gabonensis*?
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers due to limited safety data.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9656030/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis highlights significant weight loss and waist circumference reductions through *Irvingia gabonensis* supplementation, although it notes high risks of bias in the included studies.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23419021/ – A systematic review evaluating *Irvingia gabonensis* highlights statistically significant weight loss results, noting methodological flaws which compromise evidence quality.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31855111/ – This randomized controlled trial reviews metabolic benefits of *Irvingia gabonensis* kernel extract in overweight individuals, finding positive markers but not explicitly focusing on weight loss.