Marketers tout appetite suppressants as weight-loss aids. Hoodia gordonii is a plant found in appetite suppressant formulations, which are available over-the-counter without a prescription. Hoodia gordonii grows in the southern parts of Africa. It has several effects on the human body, which should be considered before using it.
Lowers Metabolic Rate
A suppressed appetite can result in a slow metabolism. A 2006 article in the Seattle Times states that the human body will enter a protective starvation mode when it is severely deprived of nutrients. The metabolism slows down up to 30 percent, and the few calories consumed are stored as fat because the body will stockpile this fuel to keep functioning. Ultimately, a slow metabolism will cause a diet to fail. The diet backfires, actually making it harder to lose weight because the body holds onto every bit of energy it can in the form of fat. Appetite suppression can be useful in a weight-loss plan, but ensure you clear hoodia's use with your doctor before trying it.
Causes Dehydration
Hoodia gordonii can cause dehydration by significantly reducing thirst. An article on Harvard Law School's website explains that hoodia is safe when used in traditional settings. According to Vanderbilt University, the San Bushmen used the Hoodia gordonii plant to stave off hunger and diminish thirst before long hunting trips. For them, it was a survival tool, not a diet aid as in the Western world. A lack of formal studies exists to demonstrate its safety when used as a weight-loss supplement. If you plan on taking hoodia to lose weight, make sure you drink plenty of water, and only use after getting the green light from your physician.
Lowers Glucose Levels
The use of Hoodia gordonii can cause dangerous drops in blood sugar levels, according to Vanderbilt University. Hoodia works by causing the brain to believe there is enough glucose in the body, so it does not send hunger signals. In a normal starvation situation, you are alerted of the need to eat by feeling uncomfortable. Your stomach can ache and you might get very thirsty. With hoodia, even if the blood glucose drops to levels that are considered dangerous by doctors, you will feel fine. Diabetics should especially use caution using this herbal weight-loss supplement, due to the risk of falling into a coma or other adverse effects which crop up when blood sugar drops severely.
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