02/20/03 by Jim Mullins
I am assuming that most of you have heard about the tragic death of the Baltimore Orioles pitcher (Belcher). There is some concern that the dietary supplement that he was taking may have contributed to his death. I am writing this to warn everyone to be careful of any energy products or supplements that they are taking. In 1994, a law was passed saying that the manufacturers of these products could produce and sell whatever they want without having to prove them safe. They can continue to sell these products until it is proven that they are unsafe. The FDA requires the manufacturers of prescription and non-prescription drugs to prove that their products are safe before they are sold. As I said the FDA does not require this of the supplement and energy product manufacturers. They also do not have to prove that it accomplishes their publicized benefit. Seems crazy to me but it is the law. Having said that I would recommend that you use extreme caution when taking any of these types of products. I would also recommend that you discuss the potential benefits and potential adverse effects with your physician before taking them. They can recommend an appropriate product for you and also a recommended safe dosage. Please do not take this subject lightly. Belcher was only 23 years old and had a child on the way when he passed away.
On an additional note, Belcher officially died of Heat Stroke. This occurs when your body no longer has the ability to cool itself. The body gets to the point where it is no longer able to sweat (our body's temperature regulating mechanism). When this occurs the core body temperature elevates to very dangerous levels. Belcher's temperature reached 108 degrees F. This core body temperature can not be handled by the body's organs for very long at all. The body begins shutting down its organs and that means very big problems. I will be adding more information about heat related conditions in the next month. I have some personal experience with this that I will share with you then. Until then be safe and be smart. You only have one go at this thing that we call life!!!