Hoodia pills suppress appetite and aid in weight loss. However, there are claimed side effects associated with these pills.
Appetite suppressants are widely used by people when trying to lose weight. Hoodia diet pills are made from the extract of a cactus called Hoodia gordonii, which is commonly found in Africa.
Hoodia Pills
The tribal people in Africa used Hoodia for many centuries. They used it for suppressing hunger when on an expedition. But, later, the extract of hoodia was commercialized, and now it is used all over the world as an appetite suppressant. Hoodia contains the P57 molecule that helps in bringing about the feeling of satiety. Therefore, when a person consumes these pills, he does not feel hungry, and consequently reduces his intake of food. This gradually results in weight loss.
No doubt, there are advantages of the pills as they are neither addictive, nor stimulating. But are they safe? Let us take a look.
Side Effects
Although the side effects are not clinically proven, you need to keep a watch and consult the doctor if you experience any discomfort. Following are the possible concerns to watch out for.
Suppressing Hunger/Thirst: With such pills, you go against the law of the nature of feeling hungry. Therefore, you tend to have stomach problems. Initially, you may suffer from an upset stomach as you are not used to having appetite suppressants. Although this problem is relatively less dangerous and experienced by many users, it is definitely a matter of concern if it persists for a longer time. Similarly hoodia also suppresses thirst, and hence, a person drinks less water than what is required by the body. This can lead to severe disorders like acute dehydration or kidney malfunctioning.
Lower Metabolism: As the person does not eat enough food, the calorie intake is reduced, which disturbs the regular metabolism of the body. The metabolism gets slower and calories do not get burned quickly.
Anorexia Nervosa: Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder where a person deliberately starves himself. Consuming hoodia can make a person anorexic as it is meant to suppress appetite. On the other hand, a person having a history of anorexia nervosa can suffer from other health conditions if he subscribes to the diet.
Liver Disorder: It is believed that the P57 molecule in hoodia can stress the liver, leading to its improper and abnormal functioning.
These supplements are not advised to people suffering from diabetes. When they have hoodia, along with suppression of appetite, the blood sugar level also drops drastically. Due to this, the body does not respond to hunger signals. People suffering from high blood pressure, and pregnant women should refrain from taking hoodia pills.
Side effects are usually observed if pills are not taken in correct amount or are taken without consulting the doctor. Therefore, one should think carefully and go for it only if the doctor does not opine against it.
Disclaimer: This article is meant for informative purposes only. It is recommended to consult the doctor before taking any medication and supplements.
