Commercial Internet sites market HoodiaLife as an appetite suppressant to aid in weight loss. Dr. Gilles Morrison states the 500 mg capsules of pure Hoodia Gordonii, a desert plant found in southern Africa, effectively decrease appetite when taken before meals. Native African hunters supposedly chew the stem of the plant to suppress hunger and thirst when hunting. In 2010, the HoodiaLife product was replaced with Hoodia 2000 TR as a time-release capsule containing 1,000 mg of the herbal powder.
Blood Sugar Levels
Using HoodiaLife can cause a drop in the dieter's blood sugar levels. In spite of diet suppression possibilities, Womens-Health-Fitness website states that taking Hoodia diet products may cause a drop in glucose levels. Lowered blood sugar levels could be a minor irritation for a healthy person. But a diabetic dieter may find the drop in glucose levels serious and should avoid using any product that interferes with blood sugar.
Stomach Upset
Some dieters report nausea and stomach upset when taking Hoodia as an appetite suppressant. TheHealthCareCenter website states stomach upset occurred when dieters first started taking Hoodia. No official studies rated stomach upset as a side effect, but anecdotal reports of the side effect have been reported.
Dehydration
Those using HoodiaLife as an appetite suppressant may suffer dehydration. Besides stomach upset, TheHealthCareCenter also stated that Hoodia caused people to drink less water than they should because the herb suppressed feelings of thirst as well as hunger. The site noted that diabetics can suffer double side effects by missing hunger and thirst triggers from Hoodia. Diabetics need to take in adequate water as well as food in spite of not feeling the need for food and water while using the herb.
Unknown Side Effects and Components
Scientists cannot give an evaluation on side effects of HoodiaLife, because no scientific studies of HoodiaLife are required by the US Food and Drug Administration. Health officials cannot even give assurances about the exact composition of HoodiaLife capsules. A May 2009 FDA question and answer session about the recall of Hydroxycut Dietary Supplement specifically mentions that Hoodia was not part of the recall nor involved in the liver problems associated with Hydroxycut, although other sites state that Hoodia may affect liver function. No FDA studies exist to back up assurances about the lack of side effects claimed by suppliers.
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