Natural Weight Loss and Ephedra

Should taking Ephedra be part of a natural weight loss plan? Although it is true that it is a natural herb you should need consider that not everything that is natural is good for you.

Ephedra is sought after because when it comes to weight loss it really is a magic bullet. It definitely causes the pounds to peel off. However this is one of those bullets that can really kill you.  Ephedra does have lots of side effects and at one point was banned by the FDA. This is because some people who took the weight loss drug were having heart attacks and dropping dead.

People take Ephedra because you can lose up to five pounds a week without having to follow some kind of starvation diet. You have the type of weight loss that makes others notice.  It is also the kind of pill that can help you lose pounds practically overnight so that you can fit into a size 8 dress before a special event.

The key to taking Ephedra wisely is to take it in moderation. You do not have to lose five pounds a week! How much weight loss is possible is completely up to you. If you take less you might get yourself to the point where you lose two pounds a week instead of a harmful five pounds a week.  This rate of weight loss is healthier and more natural for you. In fact doctors recommend that you only lose two pounds a week to stay fit.

The thing about Ephedra is that it can cut your appetite so much that you end up being starved of the nutrients that you need to survive and be healthy.  Whatever you do make sure you are consuming at least 1200 calories a day. This is the minimum amount that you need a day to function normally.

If you consume any less your body could start to conserve your body fat. This is because your brain will interpret the limited caloric intake as a state of famine and give your system the mess.  If you do decide to embark on any diet that is below 1200 calories a day be careful. You should never do it without your doctor’s approval.

Ephedrine is safe for some people to take and not for others. People that should avoid it includes pregnant or nursing women, people taking antidepressants and people with the following: chronic conditions –heart disease, thyroid disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, depression or other psychiatric conditions, glaucoma, difficulty in urinating, prostate enlargement or seizure disorder. It can cause mania if used in combination with St. John’s Wort. It should also not be taken with cough or cold medicines or if you are allergic to aspirin.