Healthy Alternatives To Ephedra & Weight Loss Programs

While the weight loss product industry would have you believe otherwise, the words "natural supplement" are not synonyms for "safe and healthy." The ephedra debacle illustrates this point. This ancient Chinese herb is extracted from a desert shrub called Ephedra equisetina. Ephedra began as an asthma treatment, but evolved into a weight loss product and energy enhancer. Reports of fatal side effects caused its ban in 1994.

Ephedra Dangers

After receiving reports of more than 150 ephedra-related deaths, the Food and Drug Administration decided to ban Ephedra. These included the death of Baltimore Orioles pitcher Steve Bechler, and the death of a female member of Crunch Fitness, whose personal trainer advised her to take the supplement as a means of moving past a weight loss sticking point. Ephedra use is also associated with kidney stone development, says Dr Michelle Browne of Creighton University. Some frequent ephedra users gradually developed insidious conditions, such as primary pulmonary hypertension, bleeding into the brain and liver damage, warns Denise Janosik of St. John's Mercy Heart and Vascular in St. Louis.

Lifestyle Adjustment

After the ephedra ban, some people sought out alternative supplements, but pulmonologist Dr. David Badesch of the University of Colorado Hospital advises against this practice. Badesch, a respected researcher for the Pulmonary Hypertension Association, warns that many so-called safe supplements may actually have some hidden, if not immediately evident dangers. Adjusting your lifestyle provides an optimal alternative for generating energy. Get six to eight hours of sleep, and stay hydrated by drinking six to eight glasses of water each day. Livestrong.com MyPlate recommends foods such as whole grain spaghetti and bread, oatmeal and high-fiber foods for people who engage in an active lifestyle.

Cross Training

Ephedra, showing impeccable timing, took the fitness industry by storm during the 1980s, when the "no pain, no gain" and "work for the burn" philosophy prevailed in gyms and private fitness studios. Highly intense workouts, which required an enormous amount of energy and endurance, were the norm. Some people turned to ephedra supplements in order to maintain their energy while sticking to low calorie diets, but the supplement could not prevent the injuries associated with over-training. Dr. Nicholas Dinubile uses the term "boomeritis" to describe overuse injuries. Harnessing the revitalizing effects of cross-training with yoga and Pilates helps you maintain a naturally high energy level.

Movement Efficiency

Muscular imbalances impede coordination, uncoordinated movement is inefficient, and inefficiency causes fatigue. Begin with a postural analysis from a certified fitness professional, physical therapist or Pilates instructor. Postural analysis helps you identify the muscle imbalances that cause fatigue. If a weak core or weak upper back interferes with your ability to maintain an upright alignment, you might inadvertently tense your neck and shoulder to maintain stability. The tension required to maintain your muscles in a chronically tight position drains your much-needed energy resources.