Synephrine powder is a naturally occurring substance found in certain citrus fruits, particularly bitter orange. It is structurally similar to the ephedrine alkaloids found in the ephedra plant, which has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine for its stimulant and weight loss effects.
In recent years, Synephrine has gained popularity as a dietary supplement and ingredient in weight loss and energy products due to its purported ability to increase metabolism, suppress appetite, and enhance exercise performance.
However, the safety and effectiveness of Synephrine supplements have been a subject of controversy and debate. This article will provide an overview of Synephrine, its functions, potential benefits, side effects, and its regulatory status.
What is Synephrine?
Synephrine is a sympathomimetic amine found in bitter orange, also known as Citrus aurantium or Seville orange. It is a type of adrenergic agonist, meaning it activates the sympathetic nervous system, which controls the body's "fight or flight" response.
Synephrine was originally discovered in the early 20th century and was used locally in traditional Chinese medicine to treat various conditions, including gastrointestinal disorders, constipation, and fungal infections. It was also used as a stimulant and appetite suppressant.
Synephrine is chemically similar to ephedrine, a stimulant found in the ephedra plant, which has been banned by the FDA due to its severe adverse effects. However, Synephrine is considered to be safer than ephedrine and is classified as a GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) substance by the FDA.
Synephrine Functions
As an adrenergic agonist, Synephrine works by stimulating the release of adrenaline (epinephrine) and noradrenaline (norepinephrine) hormones, which increase heart rate, blood pressure, and metabolic rate. This leads to a cascade of physiological changes that prepare the body for physical activity and stress.
The following are some of the functions of Synephrine
1. Increase Metabolism Synephrine has been shown to increase resting metabolic rate (RMR), which is the amount of energy the body burns at rest. A higher RMR means the body is burning more calories and hence may aid in weight loss. Synephrine does this by increasing the activity of the metabolic rate-controlling enzyme adenylate cyclase, which in turn increases levels of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), a compound that mediates the effects of hormones and other signaling molecules in cells.
2. Appetite Suppression Synephrine is believed to reduce appetite by increasing levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin, which regulates mood and appetite. By reducing appetite, Synephrine can help control caloric intake, which contributes to weight loss.
3. Boost Energy and Alertness Synephrine is known to stimulate the central nervous system (CNS), enhancing energy levels, alertness, and focus. This effect is due to the activation of the release of adrenaline and noradrenaline, which increase heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen consumption.
4. Increase Fat Oxidation Synephrine has been shown to increase the breakdown of fat cells and the rate of fat oxidation. This effect is attributed to an increase in the activity of enzymes such as lipase that are responsible for the breakdown of triglycerides into free fatty acids, which can be used for fuel.
5. Improve Exercise Performance Synephrine is thought to enhance exercise performance by improving oxygen uptake and utilization, increasing endurance, and delaying fatigue. This is due to its ability to stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, increasing blood flow to muscles, and enhancing muscle contraction.
Synephrine Benefits
The potential benefits of Synephrine supplements include
1. Weight Loss Synephrine is commonly used as a weight loss supplement due to its capacity to increase metabolic rate, reduce appetite, and enhance fat burning.
A study published in the International Journal of Medical Sciences found that 50 mg of Synephrine taken twice daily for six weeks reduced body weight and body fat mass in overweight women. Another study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition found that Synephrine, when combined with caffeine, increased metabolic rate and fat oxidation during a 45-minute cycling exercise session.
A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials concluded that Synephrine supplementation had a modest effect on weight loss and did not significantly increase the risk of adverse events.
2. Energy and Alertness Synephrine has been used to enhance energy levels, reduce fatigue, and improve mental focus. Research suggests that Synephrine supplements can increase the secretion of adrenaline and noradrenaline, leading to increased alertness and mental acuity.
A study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition found that Synephrine, in combination with caffeine, prolonged endurance and increased speed during a 30-minute cycling exercise.
3. Exercise Performance Synephrine has been shown to improve exercise performance by increasing blood flow, enhancing oxygen uptake and utilization, and delaying fatigue.
A study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that Synephrine supplementation improved power output and time to exhaustion during a cycle ergometer test.
Another study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition found that Synephrine, in combination with caffeine and tyrosine, significantly improved peak power output during a resistance exercise.
4. Anti-inflammatory Properties Synephrine has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties by reducing the release of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. This may have implications in the prevention of chronic diseases such as arthritis, atherosclerosis, and diabetes.
A study published in the Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology found that Synephrine reduced inflammation and oxidative stress in mice with induced colitis.
5. Cardiovascular Health Synephrine has been shown to have a positive effect on cardiovascular health by improving blood flow, reducing blood pressure, and increasing nitric oxide production.
A study published in the Journal of Functional Foods found that Synephrine supplementation improved endothelial function and reduced blood pressure in healthy young adults.
Another study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology found that Synephrine increased nitric oxide production and reduced arterial stiffness in healthy human subjects.
Conclusion
Synephrine is a naturally occurring substance found in bitter oranges that has gained popularity as a dietary supplement and ingredient in weight loss and energy products. It functions by stimulating the release of adrenaline and noradrenaline, which increase metabolic rate, reduce appetite, and enhance exercise performance.
Although Synephrine is considered safe, it can cause side effects, especially when taken in high doses or combined with other stimulants. Therefore, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before taking Synephrine supplements.
Furthermore, the safety and efficacy of long-term Synephrine use are not well established, and its regulatory status is subject to debate. Consumers should be mindful of false or misleading claims and choose reputable brands that follow good manufacturing practices.
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