Hoodia is the product of a cactus-type plant grown in South Africa, Botswana and Angola. With the removal of ephedra from the weight loss market, the hoodia supplement jumped to fill the void. Historically, the supplement was used by bushmen to ward off hunger and thirst during hunting trips. The active ingredient is thought to be a substance named P57 that alters the levels of ATP in the brain and decreases feelings of hunger and thirst.
Dehydration
The active ingredient in hoodia works by impacting the mechanism in the brain that controls feelings of thirst and hunger. While this may have some short term benefits for those traversing the desert, it can prove dangerous when used for longer periods. According to Women's Health Fitness, dehydration is related to decreased thirst and not an increase in metabolic use of water. Individuals taking the supplement can reduce their risk of dehydration by drinking water throughout the day in normal amounts, approximately eight 8-ounce glasses.
Liver Problems
According to Jasjit Bindra, research scientist at Pfizer on the hoodia research team, early clinical trials showed that the supplement was a potent appetite suppressant with some unwanted effects on the liver. Those effects were caused by a secondary component to the supplement that could not be easily removed from the compound. She recommends that dieters be wary of using this supplement until further processing can be accomplished in order to reduce any negative effects on the liver.
Cardiovascular Issues
According to a research study published in Brain Research in September 2004, the active ingredient in hoodia was found to have similarities to cardiac glycoside. Theoretically, these similarities also account for the reduction in appetite, similar to those found in patients taking cardiac glycoside medications. Glycosides are responsible for slowing and strengthening the heart rate. Individuals who have underlying cardiac or metabolic medical conditions should discuss this weight loss option with their physician to understand the risks involved.
Metabolic Changes
Hoodia works by suppressing the appetite and increasing the metabolic burn in the body. For those individuals who do not have any underlying metabolic disorder, these effects may be welcomed. However, according to Drugs.com, individuals who suffer from diabetes should first discuss this weight loss option with their physician. Hoodia suppresses appetite, which will affect blood sugar in individuals who have strict dietary requirements to maintain their blood sugar levels.
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