Astra 18 Diet, also known as Modified Fang Feng Tong Sheng San, is a Chinese herbal formula marketed for weight loss and the treatment of digestive issues like abdominal bloating. This article delves into the ingredients, purported benefits, potential side effects, and available reviews to provide a comprehensive overview of Astra 18 Diet.
What is Astra 18 Diet?
Astra 18 Diet is a dietary supplement based on traditional Chinese herbal formulas. Specifically, it draws from Siler and Platycodon Combination, traditionally researched in Japan for weight loss, and Magnolia and Hoelen Combination, used for abdominal bloating and disturbed digestion. The formula is designed to address the underlying causes of weight gain, such as weak digestion leading to internal phlegm and dampness. Health Concerns manufactures this product.
Ingredients and Their Purported Actions
Astra 18 Diet is designed to clear dampness, tonify spleen Qi, disperse stagnant Qi, soften hard masses, and clear phlegm. It includes Cyperus (xiang fu) and white peony (bai shao) to spread and regulate liver Qi, addressing disharmony between the liver and spleen. The specific ingredients beyond these are not explicitly disclosed.
Intended Uses and Benefits
The manufacturer suggests Astra 18 Diet can be a useful part of a weight loss program, especially when combined with Astra Diet Tea. It is also intended to treat conditions such as:
- Abdominal bloating
- Edema
- Phlegm
- Congestion
- Fatigue
- Loose or erratic stools
- Arthritis accompanied by extensive swelling and redness
Dosage and Availability
The recommended dosage is 2 to 4 tablets, three times per day, providing a 15-day supply per bottle (90 tablets, 750 mg each). As of the latest information, Astra 18 Diet is sometimes unavailable for purchase due to being out of stock from the manufacturer, though it has not been discontinued.
Read also: The Hoxsey Diet
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
While specific side effects related to Astra 18 Diet are not detailed, it's important to consider potential issues related to its ingredients and similar herbal formulas. As a general precaution, it is advised to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, pregnant or breastfeeding women.
User Reviews and Testimonials
Product reviews reflect individual opinions and experiences, not those of PureFormulas. PureFormulas does not verify or endorse any claims made in these reviews.
One user mentioned researching ta65 and astragalus, noting that they began taking 4000 mg of astragalus extract due to the high cost of ta65.
One review provides helpful tips for writing a good review, suggesting that users share first-hand experiences, including benefits, side effects, and how the product has worked for them.
Astaxanthin: A Related Compound
Astaxanthin, a red pigment found in algae and seafood, is sometimes mentioned in the context of dietary supplements. It is a carotenoid with antioxidant properties, potentially protecting cells from damage and improving immune function. While some use it for conditions like Alzheimer's disease, athletic performance, and aging skin, scientific evidence supporting these uses is limited.
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Astaxanthin Side Effects and Interactions
When taken as a supplement, astaxanthin is considered possibly safe in doses of 4-18 mg daily for up to 12 weeks. Possible side effects include increased bowel movements and red stool color, with high doses potentially causing stomach pain.
Astaxanthin may interact with medications broken down by the liver, potentially altering their effects and side effects.
Astaxanthin Dosing
Adults have typically used astaxanthin in doses of 4-18 mg daily for up to 12 weeks. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dose for specific conditions.
Health Concerns: The Manufacturer
Health Concerns was founded by Dr. Andrew Gaeddert, a TCM practitioner and scholar, with the goal of combining traditional herbal knowledge with modern research. The company aims to manufacture Chinese herbs for herbalists, bringing centuries of tradition to the West. Health Concerns emphasizes strict quality controls, testing formulas extensively to ensure effectiveness, potency, and bioavailability.
Read also: Weight Loss with Low-FODMAP