TrimSpa is a diet pill that contains hoodia gordonii, glucosamine and a "proprietary blend" of ingredients. According to the Mayo Clinic, many popular diet pills lack evidence of safety and effectiveness; they may also pose serious risks. TrimSpa is linked with numerous adverse health effects, including dehydration, digestive problems, insomnia and anxiety. For best results, the Mayo Clinic suggests doctor's guidance and examination of Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reports before use of any diet pill.
Dehydration and Electrolyte Imbalances
Hoodia gordonii is the primary ingredient in TrimSpa. According to a report published by Harvard Law School in March 2005, hoodia gordonii may suppress a person's ability to experience thirst, which may lead to dehydration. Severe dehydration may lead to imbalanced electrolytes---important salts that help regulate heartbeat and other body functions. In some cases, electrolyte imbalances result in death. People who exercise heavily as an additional weight management tool while taking TrimSpa may hold higher risk for these effects. Dehydration and electrolyte imbalances are particularly dangerous for people with history of kidney or heart disease.
Insomnia
TrimSpa also contains green tea extract, an ingredient that provides stimulant properties of caffeine. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), green tea extract may cause insomnia---reduced ability to fall or remain asleep. Sleep problems are most likely in people who take heavy doses of green tea extract. Since TrimSpa does not list a serving size's specific amounts of green tea extract, it is impossible to determine the precise amount a person consumes by taking it. Dieters who consume caffeinated beverages, such as coffee or energy drinks, while taking TrimSpa are at increased risk for insomnia.
Digestive Problems
TrimSpa may also cause digestive problems. The NCCAM lists upset stomach, diarrhea, nausea and frequent urination as potential side effects of green tea extract. Additional digestive symptoms such as abdominal pain, dark colored urine and jaundice (yellowing of the skin) are considered serious potential side effects that require termination of TrimSpa use.
Anxiety
TrimSpa may trigger emotional health problems. Due to its stimulant properties, people taking TrimSpa may experience jitters, nervousness, mood swings and other symptoms of anxiety, according to the NCCAM. People with history of mental illness may experience heightened emotional symptoms.
Increased Blood Pressure
The green tea extract contained in TrimSpa may cause increased blood pressure in some people. This risk increases if additional forms of caffeine are consumed while taking the diet pills. TrimSpa also contains tyramine, an amino acid that supports blood pressure regulation. However, according to Mayo Clinic psychiatrist, Daniel K. Hall-Flavin, M.D., tyramine can cause high blood pressure and, in severe cases, strokes in people taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
Unknown Effects
Some adverse health effects of TrimSpa may remain unknown. According to Harvard Law School, the safety and effectiveness of TrimSpa has not been proven. Thus, any number of health complications may arise from TrimSpa use.
References
- Harvard Law School; "Should TrimSpa X32 Remain on the Market? An Analysis of TrimSpa X32's Compliance with FDA and FTC Guidelines"; March 2005
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Green Tea Fact Sheet
- Mayo Clinic: MAOIs and Tyramine
- Mayo Clinic: Over-the-Counter Diet Pill Risks
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