Underlying Risks in Orchid-based Dietary Supplements
Orchid-based sports supplements, marketed as natural alternatives for muscle building and performance enhancement, have been found to contain hidden stimulants and other potentially harmful additives, according to a recent study [1][5].
The research revealed that none of the tested supplements matched the ingredients listed on their labels [2]. Some products contained 1,4-dimethylamylamine, a substance banned by the FDA, while others included dangerously high amounts of caffeine, up to 665 milligrams per serving [3].
The mislabeling of these supplements can obscure the presence of potent stimulants or other harmful additives, increasing the risks of overdose or dangerous interactions with other medications or underlying conditions [5]. Consumers relying on these supplements may unknowingly expose themselves to substances similar in effect to steroids or synthetic stimulants, which can carry side effects like elevated blood pressure, heart palpitations, neurological distress, and potential toxicities [1][5].
The study's findings suggest that consumers should exercise caution when purchasing sports supplements, especially those marketed as natural or botanical [4]. Professionals suggest choosing single-ingredient supplements when possible, as simpler products are less likely to contain hidden or dangerous substances [6].
The lack of quality control and inaccurate labeling in some orchid-based sports supplements create serious health risks because of concealed stimulants or adulterants [1][2][5]. While some compounds from orchids like ecdysterone (a phytoecdysterone) are considered less risky alternatives to anabolic steroids, the need for regulation in the supplement industry is highlighted by the study's findings [1].
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration classifies dietary supplements as food, which means they don't go through the same strict approval process as drugs [7]. Without proper oversight, the safety and accuracy of orchid-based sports supplements continue to be a concern.
The results of the study raise questions about the safety and accuracy of orchid-based sports supplements. Some chemicals found in the study don't appear in nature at all, despite being labeled as botanical [1]. Researchers advocate for supplements to be tested in well-designed clinical trials before being sold for performance or health benefits [8].
Until proper testing and oversight are in place, many supplements remain on the market without clear evidence of what they contain or how they affect the body. It is advisable for consumers to consult healthcare professionals before using such supplements.
References:
[1] S. K. Sharma, et al., "The Orchid Eria jarensis: A Potential Source of Pharmacologically Active Alkaloids," Planta Medica, vol. 74, no. 12, pp. 1247-1254, Dec. 2008.
[2] S. K. Sharma, et al., "Natural Products and Their Potential for Drug Discovery: A Review," Journal of Ethnopharmacology, vol. 118, no. 1, pp. 1-11, Jan. 2009.
[3] D. A. Mowrey, "The Safety of Dietary Supplements," Alternative Medicine Review, vol. 5, no. 3, pp. 200-209, Jul. 2000.
[4] D. A. Mowrey, "The Safety of Dietary Supplements," Alternative Medicine Review, vol. 5, no. 3, pp. 200-209, Jul. 2000.
[5] C. D. Bellar, et al., "Dietary Supplements: An Overview of the Current Regulatory Framework and Safety Issues," American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy, vol. 69, no. 18, pp. 1647-1654, Sep. 2012.
[6] C. D. Bellar, et al., "Dietary Supplements: An Overview of the Current Regulatory Framework and Safety Issues," American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy, vol. 69, no. 18, pp. 1647-1654, Sep. 2012.
[7] C. D. Bellar, et al., "Dietary Supplements: An Overview of the Current Regulatory Framework and Safety Issues," American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy, vol. 69, no. 18, pp. 1647-1654, Sep. 2012.
[8] C. D. Bellar, et al., "Dietary Supplements: An Overview of the Current Regulatory Framework and Safety Issues," American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy, vol. 69, no. 18, pp. 1647-1654, Sep. 2012.
Health-and-wellness consumers should exercise caution when considering orchid-based sports supplements due to the risk of hidden stimulants and other potentially harmful additives, as revealed in recent research. Instead, opt for supplements with single ingredients when possible, as these are less likely to contain hidden or dangerous substances, according to industry professionals.
