Fat-burners carry ‘huge risks’

Liverpool centre-back Mamadou Sakho may have put his health at risk if he used a fat-burning substance, according to Sporting Integrity’s founding director Michelle Verroken.

Verroken, whose Sporting Integrity group is dedicated to assisting sports organisations and athletes with effective anti-doping policies, says such supplements can put a large strain on the heart.

Sakho is being investigated by UEFA after an alleged anti-doping violation following a Europa League tie against Manchester United. The probe is believed to relate to the use of a fat-burning substance.

The 26-year-old is expected to request his B sample be tested ahead of Tuesday’s deadline.

When asked by Sky Sports News HQ if there were any health risks involved in taking fat-burning supplements, Verroken said: “Huge risks.

“If you are increasing the heart rate the important thing to know is what you are also going to be doing – if you are exercising at the same time – because you are overloading the heart and that really would not be a good thing if your heart has some congenital problem or you are demanding more of your body without proper hydration, proper food.

“Some of these fat burners even contain a diuretic to take water out of the body and literally make your body appear smaller. And again, if you are trying to …

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