 |
|
© Martin Wall |
Some dieters say that guaraná
Guaraná contains a substance similar to caffeine. Caffeine in combination with ephedra or ephedrine appears to be effective in helping to promote weight loss, according to short-term controlled studies. This effect is probably due to an appetite suppressing mechanism, an increase in calorie burning, or both.
One double-blind trial successfully used guaraná combined with ephedra herb to improve weight loss, but many doctors are reluctant to recommend supplements containing ephedra due to the risk of potentially serious side effects.
Guaraná contains substances similar to caffeine that could be responsible for caffeine-like responses in the body, including central nervous system stimulation, increased metabolic rate, and a mild diuretic effect.1 There is no research demonstrating guaraná is effective for weight loss on its own.
As with any caffeinated product, guaraná may cause insomnia, trembling, anxiety, palpitations, and urinary frequency.2 Guaraná should be avoided during pregnancy and breast-feeding.
Are there any drug
interactions?
Certain medicines may interact with guaraná. Refer to drug interactions for a list of those medicines.
Guaraná is an evergreen vine indigenous to the Amazon basin. The vast majority of guaraná is grown in a small area in northern Brazil. Guaraná gum or paste is derived from the seeds and is used in herbal preparations.
*Dieters and weight-management advocates may claim benefits for guaraná based on their personal or professional experience. These are individual opinions and testimonials that may or may not be supported by controlled clinical studies or published scientific articles on guaraná. For more complete and detailed information, including references and safety information, see Guaraná as an herbal remedy.
1. Leung A, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs, and Cosmetics, 2nd ed. New York: John Wiley & Sons, 1996, 293–4.
2. Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C, et al. (eds). PDR for Herbal Medicines. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics, 1998, 1017–8.
Copyright © 2003 Healthnotes, Inc. All rights reserved. www.healthnotes.com
Learn more about Healthnotes, the company.
Learn more about the authors of Healthnotes.
The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires July 2004.