Facts About Hoodia
Hoodia is a genus of cactus-like succulent plants. It is also known as “Bushman’s Hat” and “Queen of the Namib”, as it can be found in dry and rocky regions of Southwestern Africa. Although there are 13 different species of Hoodia, only one is known for its properties that act as an appetite suppressant—the hoodia gordonii. In 1937, a Dutch anthropologist studied the San Bushmen of the Kalahari Desert and noticed that the Bushmen ate the stems of the Hoodia plant, which they call Xhoba, to alleviate their hunger during long trips. A British pharmaceutical company, Phytopharm, has license to P57, a steroidal glycoside which is the active ingredient in Hoodia. P57 is the appetite-suppressing molecule that acts like glucose—it makes the brain think that you are full though you have not eaten. Phytopharm is researching the prospect of P57 as an anti-obesity drug. Clinical studies show that human subjects, depending on weight, decreased their daily calorie intake by 800-1100 calories after taking Hoodia. That is equal to losing one pound every four days. A strict diet and exercise is not mandatory, but recommended, to accompany the weight loss. · Intake Pure Hoodia contains no chemicals. Inferior Hoodia products may contain additives, so always check the product and its ingredients before buying. Hoodia can be bought in capsule, liquid, powder, or tea form from health food stores or on the Internet. People with the following should consult a doctor before taking Hoodia: - allergies, especially to plants Pregnant and/or breast-feeding women, and children are also advised to talk to a doctor regarding the use of Hoodia. · Side Effects Besides Hoodia being free of caffeine, Ephedra, and stimulants, there is not much information regarding the side effects of taking it. However, some producers of Hoodia gordonii supplements add additives and chemicals like caffeine, ephedrine, and guarana. These compounds are stimulants that can cause anxiety, diarrhea, dry mouth, insomnia, nausea, and the inability to stay asleep for long periods. Should you develop side effects after taking Hoodia, consult your doctor immediately. Hoodia should not be taken too often and too much, because it may lead to starvation. People who want a speedy weight loss are advised to moderate their diet and exercise, too, to enhance the weight loss effects of Hoodia.
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