Ephedra Weight Loss Products

by Mark DeRosa

When it comes to weight loss products, very few items can match the effects of ephedra diet pills in the body. Ephedra diet pills come from a Chinese herb known as ma huang. This herb is a component of many traditional Chinese medications, and has been used classically in the management of the common cold and asthma. The active substances in the plant are actually the alkaloids known as ephedrine and pseudoephedrine.

Ephedra acts via several mechanisms. The drug is thermogenic, meaning it causes an increase in the heat produced by the body and subsequently burning more body fat and calories. Also, ephedra weight loss pills act as an anorectic by stimulating the central nervous system. It works on the brain’s satiety center, making the body feel full. These properties make it very useful in producing weight loss. Products containing ephedra are also occasionally used by athletes to improve their performance in games.

Weight loss products containing ephedra are usually admixed with other botanicals, such as salicylic acid and caffeine. Occasionally, manufacturers may substitute other botanicals for ephedra. These botanicals typically contain diuretics or sympathetic amines. On the other hand, ephedra products that are used for improving the athletic performance of individuals typically contain either ephedra alone, or ephedra mixed with minerals and vitamins.

When ephedra is used alone, it typically results in minimal, if any, weight loss. However, when ephedra is mixed with caffeine, it appears to produce a significant amount of weight loss. This was seen in several trials that took place for up to 12 months. Based on these studies, when ephedra was conbined with herbs that contain caffeine, a weight loss of approximately 2.1 pounds more was produced in a month compared to placebo. Another study combined ephedra with herbs other than caffeine. This study revealed that the product containing ephedra still produced a weight loss of about 1.8 pounds more every month compared to placebo. Meanwhile, athletic performance was only noted to be increased in the very short term, specifically 1-2 hours after taking one dose.

Ephedra weight loss products have been known to produce a number of side effects on the body. Increases in heart rate and blood pressure are quite common. Other side effects include dizziness, insomnia, changes in mood and palpitations. There have also been reports that ephedra diet pills can cause stroke or heart attack, mostly in individuals who have had consumed ephedra or ephedrine products prior to intake of the diet pills; however, a review of several controlled trials on ephedra diet pills conducted by the Evidence-based Practice Center in Southern California actually showed that no serious adverse event, such as heart attack or death, occurred while the trials were ongoing.

Before using ephedra diet pills or any other weight loss products, it is best to consult your physician first. Drug interactions are quite common with diet pills; ask your health provider if ephedra diet pills are right for you.

If you are one of those people who want to lose weight fast and effectively, try ephedra weight loss products.

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