The Trouble With Fat-Burner Pills
By Scott Schwartz of PLUS ONE FITNESS

Be suspicious of the dramatic weight-loss claims of fat-burner supplements and pay even closer attention to the risk. Some are available as liquids; others come in large multicolored pills. But generally they promise the same thing; by speeding up your metabolism, they can reduce your fat. Trust me, they don’t work!

These supplements are supposed to work by increasing thermogenesis - that is, by converting more of the food you eat into heat before it can be stored as fat. Being able to do this safely would, of course, be a welcome way to avoid the build up of fat and keep off extra pounds. But there are few, if any, studies in any scientific literature showing that these products can do this effectively or safely. Even so, thanks to a marketing blitz, the supplements have become a multibillion-dollar industry.

What’s distressing is that although they don’t work, they are not risk free. Most contain the controversial ingredient Ephedra (a Chinese herb also known as Mahuang) or ephedrine. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has received reports of over 80 deaths and about 1400 instances of adverse affects that may be associated with the use of this herb, and has issued strong warnings about the use of ephedrine containing products. Their potential side effects include heart attack, stroke, seizure, and even death! The products are even packaged with a long list of user warnings.

If you want to increase your metabolism, there is really only one safe and reliable way to do it. You must increase your physical activity - whether it’s walking briskly, lifting weights or playing a vigorous game of tennis. Not only will the exertion help you shed some pounds, but it’s also more beneficial to the heart and skeletal muscles. So keep your money in your pocket. There are no short cut pills to a leaner body, only exercise and maintaining a healthy diet are the ways to achieve your goals. So stop looking for that easy way out!

MAGGIE’S MEMO: Scott Schwartz has been a certified personal trainer for 17 years and will be happy to customize a program for your individual needs. Take the first step on your road to better health - call Scott at PLUS ONE at 410-219-3092 or drop by 913 Snow Hill Road in Salisbury.

MAGGIE SAYS: Maggie found a wide range of ages and fitness levels at PLUS ONE FITNESS. The facility and equipment are first class. Let PLUS ONE FITNESS help you to a healthier you!