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Ephedra
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It's Not Just for Weight Loss Anymore
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by:
Amy S. Grant
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Americans
are buzzing about the FDA’s recent decision to reverse the ban on
ephedra and ephedrine supplements in the United States. Known as the
“world’s oldest medicine,” ephedra has been used for thousands of years
for its variety of healing properties. While ephedra is not a cure-all,
it is successfully used in treating hundreds of afflictions, including
some that may surprise you.
When the average person hears the word “ephedra” they generally think
of two things: “weight loss” and “banned.” The millions of people who
have safely used ephedra to burn fat and lose weight were devastated
when the U.S. ephedra ban was imposed in early 2004. The FDA was
claiming a high death rate attributed to use (or misuse) of ephedra and
ephedrine (the main “active” ingredient in the ephedra plant). However,
further research showed that only five of these deaths could be
attributed to ephedra use, so the ban was lifted. To put the number of
adverse events into perspective, consider that over 12 million people
reportedly used ephedra during 1999.
Ephedra has thermogenic qualities, which means it can be used to speed
up the body’s metabolism. This natural increase in metabolism is what
results in virtually effortless weight loss and has earned ephedra the
nickname “miracle fat burner.” Unlike other weight loss products on the
market, ephedra helps the body retain lean muscle mass. The thermogenic
qualities of ephedra also improve the body’s ability to eliminate
toxins (through urine and sweat), which can reduce unnecessary water
retention.
What you may not know is that the ephedra plant has been used to treat
a number of respiratory and circulatory conditions, including asthma,
allergies (such as hay fever) and the common cold. Ephedrine, or the
synthetic equivalent called pseudoephedrine, can be found in many
over-the-counter cold and allergy medications, including Sudafed.
Ephedra is a vasodilator, which means it relaxes (or dilates) blood
vessels, which allows blood to flow more easily, and allows nasal
passages to open wider. In Chinese medicine, ephedra has been used for
thousands of years to increase blood flow and improve circulation.
Athletes have used ephedra for centuries, since it helps build muscle
and burn fat. Many people report increased energy and stamina while
using ephedra, which increases overall athletic performance.
Ephedra is generally considered safe when adhering to the recommended
doses. Since ephedra is a very powerful and effective supplement, you
should check with your physician before using ephedra if you have any
of the following conditions: anxiety, high blood pressure, glaucoma or
heart disease. Do not take ephedra if you are pregnant or lactating.
It’s recommended to check with your physician before beginning any
weight loss program.
Since the ban was lifted so recently, only one company currently offers
ephedra supplements online. You can purchase ephedra while supplies
last at: http://www.BetaFuelDirect.com or
http://www.EphedraBurnsFat.com
About the Author
Amy Grant is an avid fitness enthusiast who enjoys
scuba diving, photography, and empowering people to achieve their goals.
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