Danger From Ephedra

Dietary supplements containing the herbal stimulant ephedra appear to be making a comeback on the weight-loss scene. Radio disc jockeys and peddlers at mall kiosks promote Metabolife 356, for example, claiming it will raise metabo-lism, boost energy and aid weight-loss.

Meta-lite is another product with nearly identical ingredients. Our personal favor-ite, Stacker 2, is hawked on the radio, promising "you're guaranteed to feel the power in 45 minutes." All three contain a dangerous combo-ephedra and caffeine (from the herb guarana or the kola nut).

Caffeine exacerbates the adverse effects of ephedra, such as high blood pressure, heart rate irregularities, insomnia, trem-ors, seizures, heart attacks and strokes.

As a result, there have been 35 deaths attributed to supplements and teas con-taining ephedra. Though not finalized, the Food and Drug Administration has drafted a proposal to limit ephedrine (the active ingredient in ephedra) to less than eight milligrams per dose, or no more than 24 milligrams a day.

EN advises staying away from prod-ucts that contain ephedra, especially if they contain other stimulants. Be suspi-cious of any product promising a burst of energy or quick weight loss.

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