What is a potential adverse effect of bitter orange?

Bitter orange is a dietary supplement that became popular for its potential weight loss and performance-enhancing effects, primarily due to its active component, synephrine. However, one of the significant concerns associated with bitter orange is that it can have similar health risks to ephedra, particularly in relation to cardiovascular effects.

Ephedra, a banned supplement due to its serious side effects, including increased heart rate, hypertension, and risk of heart attack and stroke, shares similar mechanisms of action with bitter orange. Both can stimulate the central nervous system, leading to increased heart rate and blood pressure. This similarity in action raises concerns about the potential for similar adverse cardiovascular effects, making it important for individuals considering bitter orange, especially those with underlying health issues, to proceed with caution.

Improved digestion, increased appetite, and enhanced athletic performance do not align with the recognized adverse effects of bitter orange. While some may claim benefits in those areas, they are not established as primary issues or effects related to the use of bitter orange, particularly in the context of safety and health risks.