Fitness professionals and exercise enthusiasts are continually bombarded with advertisements for weight loss products. There are literally thousands of products out there that claim to assist in weight loss, and many, when taken in a responsible manner can be very effective. However, there are risks with taking any product that alters your metabolism, and weight loss supplements are no exception.

In the fitness industry, thermogenic compounds continue to be the most popular and most heavily marketed fat control products. These exercise supplements containing Xenedrine, Ephedrine, caffeine, and other natural or artificially derived stimulants are designed to speed up your metabolism to encourage your body to burn more calories while resting and working out. The stimulants in thermogenic supplements are effective in raising your body temperature and the number of calories burned, but there can be side effects when using this type of product.

Xenedrine, ephedrine, and caffeine are stimulants; a stimulant being any type of drug that speeds up the central nervous system. Subsequently, use of thermogenic compounds can lead to abusive behavior if not used responsibly. The drugs have been demonstrated to be effective in the assistance of fat loss over short periods. However, long term use creates chemical dependence, with little fat loss benefit. When used for periods less than five weeks, thermogenic compounds have been shown to be effective in helping to reduce fat. Effectiveness seems to dissipate over a four week period as tolerances to the fat loss supplements develop; with dependence developing over a longer period.

Within five to eight weeks of continual use, tolerances are established and the effectiveness of the thermogenic supplements becomes very minimal. Resting metabolic rates return to a somewhat normal level, and the fat burning properties of the supplement become non-existent. This is the point where athletes and personal trainers should stop using the product. However, most continue in the hope or belief that the product will continue to provide results. Unfortunately, this is also the time when dependence develops.

As the body adapts to the constant levels of stimulants in your system, it becomes dependent on the supplements to maintain body functions. This dependence brings with it certain physical and psychological side effects. Side effects experienced during use of stimulants include mild to moderate depression, apathy towards life, and a "roid rage" type of irritability. Physical side effects include extreme lethargy, chronic headaches, sleeplessness, and in some cases, frequent nose bleeds. More dramatic side effects from thermogenics include shortness of breath, and heart damage.

In addition to the physical side effects, the physiological side effects can take their toll on you performance and your relationships as well. Depression and frequent anger are the most common side effects associated with stimulant use. Both of which are not conducive to maintaining friends and interpersonal relationships.

Short term use of thermogenic supplements such as xenedrine, ephedrine, and caffeine has been proven to promote fat loss in the body. When used responsibly, and not used continually, great benefit can be derived from use of these products. However, use of thermogenic compounds should be approached with caution. The chemicals will help you to lose weight, but they will only be effective for three to four weeks, and may create undesired side effects. Use the supplements wisely, take steps not to develop dependence, and discontinue use if you develop any side effects.

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