Parrinello was taking a product that contained the herbal stimulant ma huang, also known as ephedra. Ephedra is found in dozens of sports supplements sold in stores and on the Internet. Consumer Reports warns that it may be dangerous. The consumer watchdog group says that ephedra has been associated with irregular heartbeats, high blood pressure, seizures and even death. Homerun hero Mark McGwire used supplements containing androstenedione, a controversial substance that doctors say can upset the hormonal balance.
Creatine is another popular supplement.
The body produces creatine naturally, and as a supplement, it helps muscles to recuperate more quickly. Brent Price, a person trainer, takes creatine, and says that his strength and lean muscle mass are better. He recommends the supplement, but not for children. Consumer Reports says that creatine can cause muscle cramping, and in some people, kidney problems. According to Consumer Reports, sports supplements are easy to purchase, and are virtually unregulated.