| It has been certainly true that some types of supplements - vitamins and minerals, protein poweders, carbohydrate supplements, and others - have been used for many years with no apparent life-threatening effects when used according to the manufacture's recommendations. But in the last few years there has been an explosion of supplements offered to the public, and concerns have been raised about some of these products.
Serious Side Effects
The FDA has received many reports of serious side effects and even deaths strongly associated with the use of products that contain ephedrine, which is found in herbs such as Ma Huang (also known as Chinese Ephedra, Ephedra Sinica, Ephedra Equisetina, desert herb, and herbal ephedrine), Mormon Tea, and Sida Cordifolia, among many others.
Ephedrine has amphetamine - like effects; because it can accelerate the body's use of energy (calories) and depress appetite, it is often a component of weight-loss products. It is especially dangerous when taken in larger-than-recommended doses and when combined with caffeine and aspirin.
Warnings Concerning Kava
Consumer warnings have also been issued by the FDA about using dietary supplements containing kava, another herbal extract. Kava depresses brain function and is claimed to improve relaxation and reduce anxiety. Kava use, especially in Europe, has been associated with hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver failure, sometimes leading to the need for a liver transplant.
Andro
Androstenedione and other "prohormone" supplements use in hopes of promoting muscle growth can decrease the blood levels of HDL cholesterol (the "good" cholesterol) and raise the levels of LDL (the "bad" cholestrol) and estrogen (female sex hormone), potentially increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Yohimbine
Yohimbine, extracted from youhimbe bark, supposedly increases blood testosterone (thereby increasing muscle mass), decreases body fat, and serves as an aphrodisiac. Among the reported side effects yohimbine use are high blood pressure, elevated heart rate, heart palpitations, and hallucinations.
Other Things to Watch For
There are even more dangerous supplements on the market, like those that contain gamma butyrolactone (GBL), gamma hydroxybutric acid (GBH), and 1,4 butanediol (BD). Such supplements are illegally marketed, unapproved drugs and have been associated with serious illnesses and deaths.
Supplements may contain potentially dangerous ingredients - ephedrine, for example - without listing them on the package label. Supplements may contain non-listed substances - such as anabolic steriods - that are banned by sports governing bodies and have resulted in failed doping tests.
Even generally safe supplements like vitamins and minerals can be toxic if taken in huge doses.
Information about the safety and efficacy of dietary supplements can be found at www.supplementwatch.com and at www.consumerlab.com.
Final Warning
Athletes and non-athletes alike should be very cautious before using any supplement. Investigate all supplements thoroughly and consult with a knowledgeable health professional before you buy.
Printed with permission from the Gatoraide Sports Science Institute. www.gssiweb.com
|
