It is used in dietary supplements to promote weight loss, relieve joint pain and digestive problems, and improve athletic performance. The rind of the fruit contains hydroxycitric acid (HCA), which is believed to reduce appetite, promote fat loss and increase energy levels.
HCA helps block citrate lyase, an enzyme that converts carbohydrates into fats. This means that it lowers blood lipids and can prevent the buildup of belly fat in overweight people.