Dietary Supplement DMAA: Unmasked as a Synthetic Substance by Researchers
Key Takeaways:
- DMAA (1,3-dimethylamylamine), claimed by some to be a natural derivative from geraniums, has been found to be a synthetic substance in recent research. No traces of DMAA have been discovered in several diverse geranium extracts studied.
- Understanding DMAA as synthetic is crucial for unbiased judgement of its origin, as research disputes claims of its natural sourcing. DMAA is formed of four compounds, known as stereoisomers.
- Researchers’ findings suggest that there should be more oversight on products containing significant synthetic pharmacological compounds including DMAA. Clear labelling including potential effects, side effects and complete ingredients list are essential for consumers to make informed decisions.
- Safety concerns surrounding DMAA, a compound found in some sports supplements, have arisen due to such incidents as fatal heart attacks of two U.S soldiers attributed to DMAA consumption during training in 2011.
There’s a common misconception among sports supplement manufacturers who claim that a compound known as DMAA is a natural derivative from geraniums. However, recent research has consistently debunked this as a myth.
DMAA: A Synthetic Stereocomplex
DMAA, or 1,3-dimethylamylamine, is a stimulant found in some nutritional and sport supplements. Through extensive research on eight diverse geranium extracts, no trace of DMAA was detected. Essentially, the chemical composition of DMAA, whether labelled as natural or synthetic, remains consistent. Disputing claims of natural sourcing, it was found that DMAA is synthetic, formed of four compounds known as stereoisomers.
Researchers provided substantial evidence that the DMAA found in these supplements could not have been derived from the geranium plant, leading to a pivotal understanding of its origin.
The Role of FDA in DMAA Regulation
DMAA: Safety Concerns and Consequences
The safety of DMAA has been a subject of heated debate in recent years, especially due to some grave incidences. For instance, in 2011, two U.S. soldiers suffered fatal heart attacks during training exercises after consuming DMAA. This unfortunate event led the U.S. Department of Defense to remove any supplements containing DMAA from its stores on military bases, underscoring its potential dangers.
For More Information…
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration provides a comprehensive guide on dietary supplements. For more detailed information, visit their website.
