What is Ephedra?

Ephedra grows all over world, and in Western United States, this flowering shrub can be found in deserts and sagebrush areas. The plant can be ground into powder for capsules, or dried and used in tea. Ephedrine is “active” ingredient in ephedra, responsible for its healing properties. Ephedrine is a nerve stimulant similar to adrenaline, but not as strong as amphetamine.

What Does It Do?

Dieters have long known powerful effects of ephedra in promoting weight loss. Basically, ephedrine creates a thermogenic response, speeding up metabolism and expediting body’s fat burning rate while preserving muscle. Ephedra has proved to be particularly effective for people with a slow metabolism, who have previously had trouble losing weight.

Additionally, ephedrine can be used to treat bronchial asthma and cough by relaxing air passages in lungs. For this same reason, plant is helpful in treating effects allergies and hay fever. Ephedra can assist in fighting a minor cold by causing perspiration and urination (to relieve swelling and fluid retention). Alternative uses for ephedra include treating muscle and joint conditions such as bursitis, arthritis, and rheumatism. A synthetic (man-made) replacement, called pseudoephedrine, was created and is widely used in common over-the-counter medications such as Sudafed.

Why Ban?

Why would these movie stars hide such an effective and powerful weight loss secret? Why not sign contracts for endorsements and make even more money while gaining more publicity? Why not share this information with general public and put an end to obesity and weight-related diseases in America? Don’t they care enough about their faithful fans to share this secret?

These celebrities have their reasons. Think about it: what is a movie star’s most valuable asset? You might say “talent” but I disagree because some actors and actresses are successful with only a minimal amount of skill (have you turned on a television lately?) You might be thinking it’s their looks or physical appearance. I would argue that’s not it either, because some successful actors and actresses are able to maintain their popularity long after their physical beauty begins to fade.

An actor’s most valuable asset is their REPUTATION. See, reputation is a combination of popularity, looks, news and star’s ability to entertain. Some stars maintain a scandalous reputation because it gets them more press. Some stars actually provide entertainment through their negative press. For most part, your favorite actors and actresses try to protect themselves from bad press.

What does this have to do with hidden weight loss secret?

Since they don’t want bad press, and since part of their job is to look good, who in their right mind would be willing to have their “before” photos splashed on cover of Enquirer or National Star? Hollywood does not want you to know what they look like when they’re not at their best.

Have you ever noticed that when an actress is between movies, we don’t see very much of her in limelight? When movie stars are between projects, they typically pack on some additional pounds. It’s not so much that we wouldn’t recognize them, but enough to turn up pressure when they’re trying to impress directors, producers and casting agents. Five to ten pounds could make or break a big role, or even a smaller role that could lead to a starring role.