The Dangers of Hydroxycut

Government officials are announcing a recall of one of the most popular diet aids and weight loss pills, Hydroxycut, after reports of adverse reactions including liver damage. The FDA, food and drug administration, normally cannot involve itself in policing products that fall under the diet and supplement act, which include vitamins, supplements and other products under the banner of natural products. Hydroxycut claims it is made from natural ingredients and accounts for about 90% of the weight loss supplement market, with sales of about 1 million bottles yearly.

Bodybuilders and people who are typically challenged with weight issues often turn to natural supplements as diet aids. Hydroxycut has to date, received 23 reports of liver damage associated with its use, and one death of a 19 year old boy. Hydroxycut is produced in Canada and then distributed by a company headquartered near Buffalo, NY.Typically ,problems in this industry become apparent after a number of adverse reactions are reported. If those reports are serious enough, the FDA steps in to mediate a recall and to put out a bulletin. The FDA cannot review natural products before they are released to market. Therefore, problems with dietary supplements are often found months or years after the product has been marketed to consumers. In this case, the liver failure connection, which is a rare complication, was only noted after twenty plus reports were logged. These reports are voluntary reports.

Currently it is not clear which of the ingredients, or combinations of ingredients are responsible for the liver complications. One ingredient being scrutinized is hydroxycitric acid, which is obtained from tropical fruit. For more articles and information on nutrition and fitness check out my website.