Hoodia Side Effects You Should Know

After all the hype of Hoodia and weight loss, people have been wondering about Hoodia side effects and Hoodia itself.

Hoodia is a genus of 13 species of stem succulents that have similarities to the unrelated cactus family. It grows only in Southern Africa, although there have been attempts to cultivate the plant in other parts of the world. The Hoodia gordonii, one of the species of Hoodia, is also known for its appetite suppressant properties, particularly the compound P57.

P57 acts like glucose in the body, only it is stronger. P57 tricks the brain into thinking that you are full even if you have not eaten much yet.

A Dutch anthropologist’s 1937 study on the San Bushmen of the deserts of Kalahari revealed that the Bushmen ate the stems of the Hoodia gordonii to stave off hunger during their long trips through sparsely vegetated areas.

Studies by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) conducted on human subjects show that the intake of Hoodia gordonii resulted in a decreased calorie intake of 800-1100 calories—about a loss of one pound every four days.

The Food and Drug Administration Agency (FDA) has classified Hoodia as a herbal supplement instead of a drug. Hoodia also comes in different forms for easier intake—pills, powders, capsules, syrups, and liquids. Pure Hoodia is made of 100% Hoodia extract and contains no additives or chemicals. Because it is a natural product, there are no known Hoodia side effects. Hoodia is also one of the safest weight loss options.

After studying thousands of patients who have taken Hoodia, scientists found that there are no side effects that can be directly associated with Hoodia or its compound P57. Even the San Bushmen, who have been using Hoodia for hundreds of years, do not display any side effects.

However, some Hoodia producers add their additives and chemicals to their powders and pills. These can cause side effects in other users. Common compounds mixed into Hoodia products include caffeine, ephedrine, and guarana.

These compounds are stimulants, and they can cause side effects such as anxiety, diarrhea, dry mouth, nausea, and the inability to sleep or stay asleep. To avoid these side effects, it is important to make sure that the Hoodia product you are buying is made of natural extracts from Hoodia gordonii only.

Different products and compounds react differently with all kinds of people. Should you experience any Hoodia side effects, consult a doctor right away.