Power Eating
Lauren Jacobsen
BSc. (Biochemistry)
Lauren received a degree in biochemistry from Trent University in Ontario, Canada where she studied creatine and its effects on sport performance. After graduating, Lauren decided to use her biochemistry background to develop performance-enhancing supplements for many of the top supplement companies in the industry. Lauren also practices what she preaches and has competed in bodybuilding and figure competitions throughout the world. In fact, Lauren placed 1st at the Canadian Natural Nationals, qualifying to compete at the IFBB Women’s World Championships in Spain as part of Team Canada! Lauren’s also a regular contributor to Inside Fitness. She’s also the co host of the hit TV show “Body Fuel” where she presents viewers with the proper use of sports supplements for enhancing athletic performance. Lauren will arm you with the latest research on novel ingredients, delivery systems and of course new product releases. If there’s something that works or is a downright scam, Lauren will be the first to report on it!
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ECA Stack
QUESTION: What exactly is the ECA stack, and how do the pros use this stack to burn fat?
ANSWER: The ECA stack, which stands for ephedrine, caffeine, and acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), was made popular by bodybuilders and supplement companies in the 1990s for its superior fat-burning abilities. Back then, this combination of ingredients was available in many thermogenic fat burners. Unfortunately, this stimulant stack is now restricted in the US and Canada due to reported adverse events. The main culprit behind the restriction is ephedrine. Despite this, you can still purchase ephedrine as a decongestant, although at much smaller doses; of course, caffeine and aspirin are still widely available. Studies have demonstrated its effectiveness for promoting fat loss without increasing serious adverse events. So how does this stack work? When combined, ECA has a synergistic effect on fat burning, making it highly desirable for bodybuilders come competition season. Ephedrine has been shown to increase thermogenesis (heat production) in the body, causing the release of stored fat. Upon release, the body uses this as its first source of energy. Better yet, ephedrine also works to block the re-uptake of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine. This gives norepinephrine the ability to continuously stimulate receptors in the body, causing fat cell release. The second component, caffeine, inhibits the degradation of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), which is involved in the activation of enzymes responsible for fat burning or breakdown. The result is continual fat burning. In essence, when combined, ephedrine provides fat mobilization—or the materials—while caffeine provides breakdown of those materials. The last component of the ECA stack, ASA, works to decrease core body temperature, keeping it stable. The combination of ephedrine and caffeine increases thermogenesis, which in turn raises the body’s internal “thermostat.” By combining aspirin, this allows the ephedrine and caffeine to work in your body for a longer period of time, giving you the maximum fat-burning potential. If you’re considering trying an ECA stack, gradually build up to a dose of 200 milligrams of caffeine, 25 milligrams of ephedrine, and 300 milligrams of ASA. Bodybuilders will typically use this stack during the last eight weeks before a competition.
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