In recent years, Hoodia gordonii has become a very popular and heavily promoted weight loss supplement for its non-stimulant, appetite suppressant properties. Much of the appeal of Hoodia is based on its use by nomadic Bushmen to stave off hunger while on long hunting trips. It is found in southern regions of Africa and is a member of the cactus plant family. It is also an endangered species, which brings up an interesting issue regarding Hoodia’s purity. If all the Hoodia products that are being sold are real, then there should be an abundant resource of this plant. Because there is not, many of the supplements sold as Hoodia are probably not authentic.

Hoodia gordonii usually sells for about $40 per 60-capsule bottle. The recommended dosage is one capsule one hour before lunch and dinner.

How It Works

The Hoodia plant contains a chemical called P57, which is responsible for its appetite-suppressing powers. One of the ideas about how it works is that it fools the brain into believing that it has enough blood sugar. Without appropriate feedback control, it's feasible that a person's blood sugar level could drop critically low while taking Hoodia. And with the usual hunger mechanism turned off, the regular warning signs may be disguised, until it's too late. Hoodia is also believed to suppress thirst. There have been unverified stories of shepherds in Africa who took Hoodia to ward off hunger, but because they didn't feel thirsty, died of dehydration.

Scientific Evidence

Although there have been a few studies done that show that volunteers who take Hoodia have a significant reduction in average daily caloric intake and body fat, these studies have not been long-term or credible. It is important to note that no studies have been done regarding its interaction with other medications.

Regardless of the many marketing claims manufacturers make about Hoodia, there is no evidence to advocate that Hoodia is safe or effective for individuals who want to lose weight. Deceiving the brain into believing there is sufficient blood sugar in the body is unsafe and has serious consequences for people with diabetes, or those with liver and kidney problems. Hoodia appears to be safe for most individuals although far more scientific studies are necessary to establish how safe this product really is.

Sources

http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=8844055982087249517&postID=9104210953804202861
 
http://www.gnc.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2134110&cp&sr=1&origkw=hoodia+gordonii&kw=hoodia+gordonii&parentPage=search
 
http://altmedicine.about.com/od/hoodia/a/hoodiasideeff.htm
 
http://www.drugs.com/hoodia.html
 
http://www.phytopharm.co.uk/hoodiafactfile/