A Quick Fix -
The Diet Pill Rut
by Tara Payne
It's that time of year again.
Time to make your New Years Resolutions. Before you tune out, consider on how many
occasions you've made a list of resolutions, only to forget them come mid-January? Chances
are, you've done it before. The resolution that seems to top of everyone's list each year
is to lose weight and tone up. However, most of us may find getting motivated to go to the
gym every other day difficult, particularly during "crunch" time at school. This
lapsing on resultions may encourage people to look for a quick solution. How seductive it
can be to get in shape by taking 'Exercise in a bottle' or 'Metabolife'? But, are these
quick fixes safe? And what are the drawbacks?
Diet pills are extremely alluring because of their attractive
promises; you can eat what you want and still lose the fat, curb your appetite and feel
energized. With all of these promises, who wouldn't want to try them?
However, before you start popping these pills, be sure to look at
their ingredients to understand the risk involved with taking them. One of the most common
ingredients is, ma-huang, a naturally occurring ephedrine. In ancient times, Chinese
doctors used ephedrine for upper respiratory problems, such as bronchitis. But in recent
years, ma-huang, combined with a combination of caffeine and natural herbs, have been used
for weight loss. It can be successful for some people. For instance, many people will
experience positive results from using ephedrine, such as weight loss and a suppressed
appetite. "It stimulates your nervous system" and "is a useful product if
properly used," says Varro Tyler, a professor of pharmacognosy at Purdue University.
However, there are some risks. People who take ma-huang and do
not seek medical supervision may not know about the adverse reactions to these drugs. So
far, 15 deaths in this country alone have been associated with ephedra or other herbal
stimulants. Because ephedra works as an "upper," it boosts the heart rate,
constricts blood vessels, and increases blood pressure, which can lead to a stroke. Other
adverse effects of ma-huang include heart palpitations, arrhythmia's, and memory loss.
As always, the best way to lose weight and stay fit is through a
regimen of regular exercise and a healthy diet. For long term overall health and well
being, this is the safest route to pursue. The University Health Center offers a healthy
eating workshop, where students can learn how to cook delicious, nutritious, meals. The
peer health education office keeps a wide range of weight management and exercise books
for students to check out. Kristen Olmos, the health center's nutritionist, can help you
plan an individual eating guide. Also, the new Rec center has a wide range of athletic
activities.
Whatever your New Year's Resolutions are, be sensible. And
remember, you have a variety of University contacts at your fingertips that can help you
keep those New Year's Resolutions. Good luck! |
