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Ephedra-Free Weight Loss Supplements

Dear Nutrition Twins,

I really want to take a weight loss supplement but I am worried that some of the supplements that are labeled “ephedra-free” really aren’t safe either. Can you tell me if they are? I am desperate. Please help.

Tori, Tennessee

Dear Tori,

Many people like you really feel desperate to lose weight and are anxious to try some of the new “ephedra-free” supplements on the market. You are wise to investigate these products before you dive into trying them as some of these products may raise blood pressure and heart rate, just like ephedra does.

In fact, recently, an article published in the American Journal of Medicine tested the effects of Advantra Z, Xenadrine EFX, or a placebo on heart rate and blood pressure. Both of these supplements contain bitter orange, which is an herb commonly found in many of the new weight loss supplements. Bitter orange (also known as Citrus aurantium) contains synephrine, which stimulates the central nervous system. The study revealed that both of these supplements raised heart rate, but only Xendrine EFX raised blood pressure. The authors of the study suspect that Xenedrine EFX raised blood pressure because it has other stimulants and caffeine since it actually contains less synephrine than Advantra Z. This just goes to show that you should not assume that the weight loss supplements are safe just because they are ephedra free.

If you are desperate to lose weight, try decreasing the portion sizes of the meat and starches at your meal by one-third. Then fill up on steamed vegetables seasoned with spices or seasoned with “I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter” Spray. Be sure to replace fatty snacks like chips or sugary snacks like cookies with fruit. Also, boost the length of your cardiovascular exercise sessions. These changes will help you to see the results that you are desperate to achieve. Good luck!

The Nutrition Twins, www.nutritiontwins.com

January 3, 2006 in Weight Loss Q&A | Permalink