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Kola Nut SupplementsKola Nut is best known for its use in the first formulation of the famous Coca-Cola drink in 1886. The extract contains theobromine and a high level of caffeine and has been consumed for years by natives of Asia, Africa and the Pacific. Today it is included in modern "best fat burners" for it's weight loss properties, however, research have found concerns with it's overall affect on the body and health. Most research completed focus on it's health effects, rather on its ability to induce fat loss. Research Title: Widespread tannin intake via stimulants and masticatories, especially guarana, kola nut, betel vine, and accessories. Research Title: Induction of the procarcinogen-activating CYP1A2 by a herbal dietary supplement in rats and humans. Year Published: 2003 Research Summary:A herbal dietary supplement called FastONE (weight management supplement) which contains kola nut, grape, green tea and gingko biloba was observed to find out if it induced a procarcinogen-activating enzyme. They found that when human particpants took 2 and 4 capsules over 3 days, the activity of this enzyme increased to 194 and 203% respectively. These are levels higher than those observed when individuals smoke (179%). Researchers concluded that long term use of the supplement could increase the incidence of colorectal and lung cancer. Ryu,-S-D; Chung,-W-G Induction of the procarcinogen-activating CYP1A2 by a herbal dietary supplement in rats and humans. Food-Chem-Toxicol. 2003 Jun; 41(6): 861-6 Conclusions:While this extract may have some fat burning qualities, it is likely that this is derived from its caffeine content. There is very little research done into its efficacy in inducing weight loss, the only exception being a paper published in the International Journal of Obesity in 2002 which observed the affects of a Ma Huang and Kola nut supplement. While they did observe that the supplement induced body weight reduction and fat loss, this can be attributed to the ephedra (ma huang) which has been shown in other studies to have this affect. The more pressing issue however, is that there seem to be real cancer-related concerns with atleast the tannin in this extract. Long term use could have significant affects on overall health, and it is for this reason, that I would caution you in the use of these supplements. References:FoodReference.com Diet & Fitness TipsWant more free weight loss information, get free recipes, exercise tips and weight loss information in the Diet & Fitness Tips Newsletter. Sign up today.
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