London, Aug 3 : Health experts are criticising David Beckham for endorsing health firm Herbalife.

The soccer ace has come under fire for becoming the face of the health supplement giant, which has been accused of running a pyramid selling scheme.

LA Galaxy has a five-year deal worth 15million pounds with the global firm, which allows them to use the club's name and image.

However, the company has been made to settle a string of lawsuits accusing it of "unfair and deceptive business practices, fraud and deceit".

Critics have slammed the company's weight loss products for containing appetite suppressant drug Ephedrine, which is banned in the US.

"Some of their products have been branded `glorified laxatives,'" the Daily Star quoted one health expert as saying.

Herbalife's name is on Galaxy shirts and advertising at their stadium.

In fact, it is rumoured that the company had a major role in blocking Beckham's move to AC Milan, after claiming their sponsorship deal would be hit.

Beckham's spokesman Simon Oliveira last night said: "Herbalife is the LA Galaxy sponsor and David has no direct relationship with them. Any issues to do with team sponsorship need to be addressed to them."

Meanwhile, Becks scored a trademark free kick in a 2-1 friendly defeat to Barcelona at the Rose Bowl in Los Angeles. (ANI)