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At Healthfully, we strive to deliver objective content that is accurate and up-to-date. Our team periodically reviews articles in order to ensure content quality. The sources cited below consist of evidence from peer-reviewed journals, prominent medical organizations, academic associations, and government data.
The information contained on this site is for informational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for the advice of a professional health care provider. Please check with the appropriate physician regarding health questions and concerns. Although we strive to deliver accurate and up-to-date information, no guarantee to that effect is made.
Negative Effects of Herbalife
Founded in 1980, Herbalife is a global nutritional company that sells a line of weight loss and herbal products that are sold solely by independent distributors. According to the official Herbalife website, all products follow the rules enforced by the Food and Drug Administration, and are labeled according to the laws and regulations 1. However, a variety of products sold by Herbalife carry a risk for negative effects, depending upon which product you consume.
Shellfish Products
According to the Herbalife website, many of its products contain shellfish. This can pose a problem for those who are allergic to this item when consumed. Check with your physician before taking any supplement containing shellfish.
Caffeine
How Caffeine Affects the Nervous System
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Herbalife contains caffeine, which in turn can lead to restlessness, anxiety, hypertension and insomnia. According to the Mayo Clinic, caffeine effects are different according to each individual 3. Some people may experience jitters from a small amount of caffeine, while others experience no side effects at all. However, the Mayo Clinic states that the consumption of over 500 mg of caffeine daily can lead to aforementioned unpleasant side effects 3. Herbalife pills, tablets and products contain between 65 and 75 mg of caffeine per serving.
Bowel Problems
Because of the milk-based ingredients found in some of the Herbalife products, consumption can lead to diarrhea, constipation and stomachaches for those who have problems digesting lactose. The Food and Drug Administration received complaints dating back to 1981, in which consumers complained of nausea, diarrhea and constipation after consuming Herbalife.
Lead
Congestive Heart Failure & Caffeine
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According to the Herbalife website, Herbalife herbs and supplements contain small amounts of lead that fall within the normal range of the FDA guidelines.
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References
- Herbalife: Official Site
- Herbalife: Frequently Asked Questions
- Mayo Clinic: Caffeine
- Ignarro L. Herbalife nutritional products and liver injury revisited. Journal of Hepatology. 2008; Volume 49(Issue 2):291–293.
- Licata A, Craxı` A. Considerations regarding the alleged association between Herbalife products and cases of hepatotoxicity: A rebuttal. Internal and Emergency Medicine. February 2014.
- Manso G, López-Rivas L. Continuous reporting of new cases in Spain supports the relationship between Herbalife® products and liver injury. Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety. 2011;20(10):1080–1087.
- Schoepfer AM, Engel A. Herbal does not mean innocuous: Ten cases of severe hepatotoxicity associated with dietary supplements from Herbalife products. Journal of Hepatology. 2007;47(4):521–526.
- Stickel F. Slimming at all costs: Herbalife®-induced liver injury. Journal of Hepatology. 2007; Volume 47(Issue 4):444–446.
Writer Bio
Leigh Egan, a professional writer since 2000, has vast experience within academic research, journalism and web writing. She has written for Lifetips.com and various other websites, and works as a staff writer and a freelance journalist. Egan majored in English at Kennesaw State University and holds a certification in creative writing and grant writing.