Supplements are often seen as a means to enhance overall health—which is why it may be surprising to hear that some of them can pose serious risks on your overall health. While many supplements are generally safe within recommended dosages for healthy individuals, certain options are dangerous and can impact your well-being, particularly concerning heart health.
To learn more about the downsides of some supplements that may jeopardize cardiovascular health, we turned to health expert Ramit Singh Sambyal, MD. He cautioned against two options used for weight loss: ephedra and bitter orange. Learn more about the risks associated with each of these offenders below.
1. Ephedra
Ephedra is undoubtedly a dangerous supplement, which is why the FDA banned it back in 2004. This stimulant, often used for weight loss, could result in heart attack, stroke, seizure, and even death. Unfortunately, as Dr. Sambyal warns, "Despite this ban, some products may still have ephedra or its derivatives, like ma-huang in traditional Chinese medicine."
All in all, it can pose a significant risk to your heart. "This stimulant can increase blood pressure, heart rate, and metabolism," Dr. Sambyal says. It can be especially dangerous when combined with certain medications. "Ephedra can interact with blood pressure medications and other drugs such as caffeine and decongestants," he states.
We recommend that everyone avoids this supplement, but those with hypertension and other existing heart issues are at especially high risk.
2. Bitter orange
Bitter orange is sometimes praised for potential benefits that include the treatment of heartburn and nasal congestion, along with waist-slimming properties thanks to a stimulant called synephrine. However, that same supplement could be dangerous for your heart, Dr. Sambyal warns. He tells us it should especially be avoided by people who struggle with high blood pressure.
Synephrine, he notes, could raise your blood pressure and heart rate. Additionally, "It can also interact with blood pressure medications and other drugs, such as antidepressants and antihistamines."
"Bitter orange can increase the risk of stroke, heart attack, and arrhythmia in people with high blood pressure," he says. "Therefore, people with high blood pressure should avoid bitter orange and products that contain it."
What to do instead of taking these supplements
Want to reap the benefits of waist-slimming supplements like ephedra and bitter orange without putting your heart at risk? Luckily, there are plenty of ways to work towards your weight loss goals that won't damage your health. It's important to remember that there's no quick fix to a healthy body, which means that you shouldn't rely on supplements to help you reach the flat belly of your dreams. Instead, consistent healthy habits are crucial.
Health experts agree that adding more lean proteins, fiber, and healthy carbs to your diet is one major step to take towards a slimmer waistline. Additionally, maintaining a great workout routine can do wonders.
If a faster metabolism is what you're after, there are many healthy spices you can sprinkle into your foods to help in that area. Unfortunately, though, when you're making your overall health a priority, you have to let go of the idea that a miracle-working supplement will help you drop pounds overnight. While the healthy journey to weight loss may require a bit more hard work and dedication, your body will thank you in the long run.
READ MORE: 3 Dieting Mistakes That Are Stopping You From Losing Weight, According To Experts
