The News:
After hearing about the death of Baltimore Orioles pitching prospect Steve Bechler and his use of ephedra-containing dietary supplements, you may wonder: How could something with the potential for such harm make it to the shelves in the first place?

The Scoop:
Bechler was taking Xenadrine, a weight loss supplement containing ephedra, which is an herb that increases metabolism and suppresses appetite. This is how it helps with weight loss, especially when it is combined with caffeine and other herbal stimulants.

But, a comprehensive report on ephedra released last week provides evidence that the herb is indeed associated with increased risk for heart attacks and seizures, as well as gastrointestinal and psychiatric problems. The report also revealed five deaths. This was after reviewing 16,000 adverse event reports on ephedra usage.

Now the most important thing to note is that when we take dietary supplements—whether it is ephedra or any other kinds we see on the shelves—we are putting ourselves at risk, because these supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration.

Supplement Scoop: Buying at Your Own Risk

1. FDA is not required to prove safety or efficacy of supplements

Unlike drug products that must be proven safe and effective for their intended use before marketing, there are no provisions in the law for the Food and Drug Administration to "approve" dietary supplements for safety or effectiveness before they reach the consumer.

2. Manufacturers are not required to report injuries or illness to FDA

Also unlike drug products, manufacturers and distributors of dietary supplements are not currently required by law to record, investigate or forward to FDA any reports they receive of injuries or illnesses that may be related to the use of their products. According to an agency spokesperson, the FDA receives reports of adverse events primarily from consumers; the next largest set of complaints comes from health care professionals.

3. FDA must prove supplement causes harm before removal from marketplace

If it is determined that a supplement poses a significant health risk, the FDA can ban sales of the product. But, the FDA must show that a dietary supplement is unsafe before it can take action to restrict the product's use or removal from the marketplace. Removal of a supplement by the FDA requires scientific evidence linking the supplement with harm; it is extremely rare that a supplement is removed solely on the basis of adverse event reports.

Pills, powders and potions may work in the short-run, but can cause harm as we have seen.  Remember, there is no substitute for good sound nutrition and regular exercise and the results we reap from these will stay with us in the long-run.