How can bitter orange and caffeine affect each other?

Bitter orange contains compounds like synephrine, which can have a stimulatory effect on the cardiovascular system, similar to caffeine. When these two substances are consumed together, they can amplify each other's stimulant effects, leading to increased heart rate, blood pressure, and potential feelings of jitteriness or anxiety. This synergy can pose health risks, particularly for individuals with cardiovascular issues or sensitivities to stimulants.

The combination of these two may create a situation where their combined effects lead to an overstimulation of the heart and nervous system, thereby raising the risk of serious side effects like palpitations, anxiety, and in extreme cases, cardiovascular events. Thus, caution is warranted when these two are used in conjunction, leading to the conclusion that there may be dangerous synergistic effects present.

While bitter orange and caffeine have been noted for their roles in enhancing metabolism and potential fat burning, the safety concerns around their interaction are paramount, making the synergistic effects the most critical aspect to consider.