Hoodia gordonii is a succulent plant used by the San Bushman of South Africa to suppress hunger and thirst while on hunting trips. In recent years, this product has flooded the market by being advertised as an appetite suppressant that aids in dieting efforts at losing weight due to hoodia's , active ingredient, P57. This ingredient apparently tricks the brain by altering chemical signals regarding satiation and glucose levels; as a result, hunger is kept at bay. The website, Hoodiap57.com, claims there are no side effects, however little research has been conducted at this point to support that conclusion.
Upset Stomach
Some may be more sensitive to hoodia than others and may experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as an upset stomach or stomach pain and bloating, according to TheHealthCenter.com. Still, others may report having some diarrhea. Typically, these types of adverse reactions will subside with continued use as the body adjusts to taking hoodia. However, if these side effects do not diminish, or if they get worse, contact a physician for an evaluation.
Dehydration and Headaches
Another potential side effect from ingesting Hoodia is dehydration, since this supplement also interferes with signals of thirst that allows a person to increase his/her intake of fluids. Also, dehydration is a possible reason given for the side effect of headaches by Hoodiadietworks.com. Consequently, if you decide to use this product, monitor your fluid intake and drink plenty of water whether you feel thirsty or not to avoid becoming dehydrated.
Abnormal Liver Function
Some people, especially those with a history of liver disease, may experience increased stress on the liver indicated by abnormal functioning while taking hoodia supplements as indicated by Hoodiadietworks.com. This is an example of why it is important to discuss taking hoodia with a physician before actually starting on this new supplement.
Blood Sugar Precautions
Hoodia gordonii, as an appetite suppressant, acts in such a way to deceive the brain with signals that sufficient glucose or blood sugar exists in order to function---even though no food has been consumed -- can be dangerous to a diabetic patient as discussed by Hoodiadietworks.com. By decreasing signals of hunger, hoodia eliminates an individual's chance to respond to such survival signals, which for patients with diabetes could prove medically disasterous. Therefore, if you have blood glucose conditions, it is imperative that you first discuss hoodia with your physician before deciding to take this supplement on your own.
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