Hoodia, or Hoodia gordonii, is a flowering cactus-like plant that is native to South Africa, growing primarily in the Kalahari Desert. The active ingredient in hoodia is known as P57. Bushmen of the Kalahari Desert have traditionally consumed hoodia during long hunts to reduce their thirst and hunger. Today, hoodia is marketed as a dietary supplement for appetite suppression and weight loss. If you choose to use hoodia, be sure that you inform your doctor.
Dehydration
Because no studies have been done on the side effects of hoodia on humans, the side effects of hoodia are not well known. According to Healthypolicygude.org, hoodia suppresses thirst and there is the danger of dehydration if you do not drink enough water to compensate. Be sure to drink plenty of water while taking hoodia.
Blood Sugar
There is also the potential for hoodia to impact sugar levels in diabetics. According to Women-health-fitness.com, hoodia may cause people with diabetes to experience a substantial fall in blood sugar while using hoodia. This may interfere with insulin dosing. Hoodia may also interfere with the effectiveness of other prescription drugs.
Liver Stress
According to Women-health-fitness.com, taking hoodia supplements may increase the stress on your liver, especially if you have any form of liver disease. This increased stress may be from the liver breaking down P57, the active ingredient in hoodia.
Stomach Upset
Some users of hoodia have reported minor stomach upset.
Effects from Other Ingredients
If you take supplements that are less than 100 percent hoodia, some of the side effects you experience may be caused by the other ingredients in the supplement. To avoid this possibility, Women-health-fitness suggests that it is best to purchase a pure hoodia supplement. Since dietary supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, the quality and consistency of hoodia supplements can vary widely.
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