While it’s always the best option to get the nutrients your body needs to thrive directly from the foods you eat each day (superfoods like these can always help with that), supplements can often be a good way to fill any gaps. You may even take supplements to target a particular health goal, from weight loss to better sleep. However, it’s crucial to remember that not all supplements are created equal. While others are perfectly safe and effective, some can be potentially dangerous.
To discover a few of the supplements that could be most damaging to your health, we spoke to nutritionist Mary Sabat. She told us that ephedra, yohimbe, and bitter orange could all have detrimental effects on your wellbeing. Learn more about the specific risks of each below.
1. Ephedra
Ephedra, also known as ma huang, is one supplement that used to be used for a number of possible benefits, from weight loss to allergies, asthma, headaches and more. However, this herb is a possibly dangerous stimulant and has been banned by the FDA since 2004. If you live outside of the U.S. or are considering getting your hands on this supplement despite the ban, you may want to think heavily about the possibly consequences.
"Ephedra has been linked to heart attacks, strokes, and seizures," Sabat warns, noting that "The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has banned the sale of ephedra supplements due to their potential health risks."
2. Yohimbe
Sabat calls out yohimbe as another potentially dangerous supplement. This herb, which comes from tree bark and is typically sold in capsules, is also linked to a number of health risks.
"Yohimbe is often used as an aphrodisiac and weight loss aid," Sabat explains. "It has been found to cause high blood pressure, rapid heart rate, and other serious health problems." Yikes!
READ MORE: This One Weight Loss Supplement May Actually Be Unsafe And Ineffective, Health Experts Warn
3. Bitter orange
Here's another weight loss supplement that Sabat wants you to reconsider taking due to the possibly dangerous health risks at hand. Although likely safe in small doses, bitter orange can lead to serious complications in large doses.
"Bitter orange, also known as Citrus aurantium, is often used as a weight loss supplement," Sabat says. "However, it can cause heart problems and has been linked to strokes and heart attacks." Uh-oh!
Additionally, the NCCIH notes that there's little information regarding whether or not this supplement is safe for pregnant or nursing women to consume.
Ultimately, the best way to lose weight is through proper diet and exercise. You can find some of the best weight loss tips from experts here.
The bottom line
Overall, while supplements may seem like a good, simple solution for various health concerns, it's important to remember that they can cause harm if you're not careful about which ones you take and how you take them. Ultimately, it's important to approach supplements with caution, do thorough research, and always speak to a qualified healthcare provider before taking any new supplements. At the end of the day, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper medical care are key to living your happiest, healthiest life.
