Hydroxycut
Hydroxycut is one of the most advertised diet pills. The before and after photos on the commercials and print advertisements are shocking, leading even the most skeptical of us to wonder if Hydroxycut could work for them. Hydroxycut contained ephedra before it was banned in the United States. Ephedra was effective as a stimulant, but many heart related problems arose from its use, and several deaths occurred. Now Hydroxycut is reformulated to focus more on carb blocking and glucose moderation.
What’s In Hydroxycut?
Hydroxycut is formulated with herbs and minerals to promote weight loss. The man components are calcium, chromium, potassium, green tea extract, alpha-lipoi, and other weight loss aids. While these drugs are usually safe on their own, the exact amount of each drug in every Hydroxycut pill is unknown, leading to raised concern about its safety level.
What are the Side Effects?
Hydroxycut can raise blood pressure, causing nose bleeds or heart palpitations. Headaches and acne are also common side effects. All pregnant or nursing women should avoid Hydroxycut, as should those who are currently on blood pressure-lowering medication.
Does Hydroxycut Work?
Hydroxycut has not been proven to work in any clinical trials. In 2003, Missouri Attorney General Jay Nixon filed a lawsuit against MuscleTech, Hydroxycut’s manufacturer, claiming Hydroxycut ads were deceptive by saying Hydroxycut was “clinically proven” to be a “fat-burner.”
“The product is not “clinically proven” to be a “fat-burner,” as MuscleTech claims. MuscleTech’s own study showed that Hydroxycut has no efficacy as compared to placebo with the possible exception of an appetite-suppressing effect. Moreover, the serious adverse health risks of Hydroxycut with ephedra – including death – were not adequately described or disclosed in marketing and labeling of the product.”
Nixon also stated that the before and after photos, seemingly impressive, were also deceptive. One of the women featured in the commercial had recently given birth, which accounted for her weight gain and subsequent loss. MuscleTech paid $100,000 to settle the lawsuit but maintained innocence throughout the case.
What’s the Bottom Line?
Hydroxycut has not been proven to work, and could also interfere with any prescription or over counter medications currently being taken. The increased blood pressure is a worrisome side effect, especially those with kidney or liver problems. Before taking Hydroxycut, consult your doctor about its risks and benefits and remember to discontinue use if you experience negative side effects. The best way to lose weight is to consume less calories than you take in, by eating healthy and exercising regularly.
