Hoodia gordonii is a substance derived from an African cactus-like plant sold as an appetite suppressant and as an herbal diet pill. Marketers of hoodia claim that it is absolutely safe to consume hoodia diet pills, as hoodia has been used by San Bushmen in the Kalahari Desert of Africa for thousands of years. According to Drugs.com however, the effectiveness and safety of hoodia is yet to be proven in clinical trials and it is best to consult your doctor before consuming these pills to determine whether they are safe for you. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine reports that there is no reliable scientific evidence to support the use of hoodia.
Blood Sugar Side Effects
Diabetic patients or people taking medicine to control blood sugar should consult a doctor before consuming hoodia, according to Drugs.com. Hoodia acts on the brain in a similar way to glucose and deceives the brain into thinking that the body has sufficient glucose though users haven't consumed any food. This can prove risky if blood sugar levels drop drastically while consuming hoodia. Since hoodia works as an appetite suppressant, it reduces feelings of hunger thereby eliminating a person's ability to respond to signals of hunger sent out by their body, which can have disastrous consequences for a patient with diabetes or hypoglycemia.
Allergic Reactions
Drugs.com reports that hoodia is an extract from a plant that may trigger allergic reactions in some people. Symptoms include swollen limbs, breathing difficulty, rashes and redness. Untreated allergic reactions may progress into more dangerous conditions, so you should immediately consult a doctor if any signs of allergies develop.
Dehydration
Along with hunger, hoodia also blocks signs of thirst and this can cause inadequate consumption of water, which can lead to dehydration. This presents further complications for diabetic patients as plentiful fluids are essential for their condition. Make sure to drink plenty of water when using hoodia even if you don't feel thirsty.
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