by Jeff S. Volek, Ph.D., R.D., F.A.C.N.
Many weight loss formulas are using bitter orange because it is similar in structure to the common stimulant ephedra, now banned by the FDA. Because bitter orange is also a mild stimulant, there is concern it may have adverse effects on heart function and blood pressure.
Researchers investigated the acute effects of a single dose of a commercially available bitter orange product containing 27 mg of active ingredient. There were no differences in measures of heart activity or blood pressure for 8 hours after ingestion of the supplement compared to placebo.
