naturally occurring alkaloid commonly found in the bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) and other citrus fruits. It's known for its potential health benefits, particularly in weight management and metabolic enhancement
Synephrine is a naturally occurring alkaloid commonly found in the bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) and other citrus fruits. It's known for its potential health benefits, particularly in weight management and metabolic enhancement. Here are some of the key health benefits of Synephrine along with research citations:
1. Weight Loss and Metabolic Boost
Synephrine is often promoted for its potential to aid in weight loss by increasing the basal metabolic rate (BMR). It may enhance lipolysis, the breakdown of fats in the body, and increase energy expenditure.
- Citation: A study by Stohs et al. (2012) found that p-synephrine, the primary protoalkaloid found in bitter orange, increases energy expenditure and fat oxidation at rest and during exercise without affecting heart rate or blood pressure significantly. This suggests that synephrine can promote fat loss and improve metabolic rate without the severe cardiovascular side effects associated with other stimulants like ephedrine.
Reference: Stohs SJ, Preuss HG, Shara M. "A review of the human clinical studies involving Citrus aurantium (bitter orange) extract and its primary protoalkaloid p-synephrine." Int J Med Sci. 2012;9(7):527-38. doi: 10.7150/ijms.4447.
2. Appetite Suppression
Synephrine might help in appetite control by affecting neurotransmitter activity, which can help reduce caloric intake.
- Citation: In a study conducted by Haaz et al. (2006), synephrine was observed to suppress appetite by modulating the release of serotonin and dopamine. The study suggested a potential benefit in controlling food intake and supporting weight loss efforts.
Reference: Haaz S, Fontaine KR, Cutter G, Limdi N, Perumean-Chaney S, Allison DB. "Citrus aurantium and synephrine alkaloids in the treatment of overweight and obesity: an update." Obes Rev. 2006 May;7(2):79-88. doi: 10.1111/j.1467-789X.2006.00222.x.
3. Energy Enhancement and Physical Performance
Synephrine may enhance physical performance by increasing energy levels and improving the body's ability to perform during high-intensity exercise.
- Citation: Ratamess et al. (2015) conducted a study that demonstrated that acute synephrine ingestion significantly increased the number of repetitions performed in resistance exercises, suggesting its potential use as a performance enhancer in strength-based activities.
Reference: Ratamess NA, Bush JA, Kang J, Kraemer WJ, Stohs SJ, Nocera VG, Leise MD, Diamond KB, Campbell SC, Miller HM. "The effects of supplementation with p-synephrine alone and in combination with caffeine on resistance exercise performance." J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2015;12:35. doi: 10.1186/s12970-015-0094-4.
4. Improved Glycemic Control
Some studies suggest that synephrine can positively affect glycemic control, potentially benefiting those managing blood sugar levels.
- Citation: Research by Peluso et al. (2014) indicated that synephrine could help in maintaining glycemic control by influencing glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. The study explored the mechanisms behind the potential benefits of synephrine in metabolic disorders.
Reference: Peluso I, Romanelli L, Raguzzini A. "Effects of bitter orange (Citrus aurantium L.) fruit extract, p-synephrine, on weight management and glycemic control." Front Pharmacol. 2014;5:1-8. doi: 10.3389/fphar.2014.00079.
5. Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Effects
Synephrine has been studied for its potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which could help in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Citation: A study by Onakpoya et al. (2011) reviewed the safety and efficacy of Citrus aurantium and its constituents, highlighting its antioxidant effects. The study suggested that the bioactive compounds in bitter orange might help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation.
Reference: Onakpoya IJ, Posadzki P, Ernst E. "The safety of Citrus aurantium (bitter orange) and its primary protoalkaloid p-synephrine." Phytother Res. 2011 Feb;25(2):142-51. doi: 10.1002/ptr.3260.
