Hoodia

Hoodia made headlines as the next promising weight loss substance when it was first introduced on national news in November 2004. Since then, there has been good news and bad news regarding its presence in the diet world.

What Is It?

Hoodia Gordonii is a succulent plant native to the Kalahari Desert in southern Africa. It is only the Gordonii species that contains an active ingredient shown to suppress appetite while providing energy and stamina. African tribes have been consuming this plant for hundreds of years to control hunger when enduring long hunting trips.

Does It Work?

Many studies have proven that Hoodia does work. One study, conducted by a pharmaceutical company, resulted in a 1,000 calorie reduction per day for its obese subjects. It causes this decreased food intake in the same way glucose functions in the brain: nerve cells begin firing when the “brain food” is received, whether it is glucose or Hoodia. Subsequently, hormones are released telling you that you are full. Some subjects have reported its effect immediately, while others claim it took approximately two weeks to experience its effect.

Claims include:

• Suppressing appetite

• Delaying hunger

• Causing feeling of fullness quickly when eating a meal

• Decreasing interest in food

• Offering a feeling of overall well-being

• No reported side effects

• Not a stimulant (unlike ephedra and phenfen, now banned)

• Appears to be safe for most people

Is It Safe?

Although proponents of Hoodia declare it to be safe because African tribesmen have been eating it in its natural form for centuries, The Food and Drug Administration has yet to approve it as safe. Since it is new to the market, there are no long-term studies proving its 100% safety. Various forms of the substance, along with a person’s individual sensitivities, heighten the chance of a negative effect. Consulting with your physician is strongly encouraged before taking any dietary supplement.

The Catch

Since this medicinal plant only exists in one specific area of the world, supplying entire nations with it to treat the obesity epidemic is not realistic. Hoodia plantations have been implemented in the southern regions of Africa, but resistance to pests and disease has transpired due to its “unnatural” variety. A synthetic form of the plant is in development stages, but the price tag to produce it is radically high.

Availability

In its X32 product, the TrimSpa company claims to offer 75mg of Hoodia. Many supplements have only 0.1-0.01% of Hoodia Gordonii in its product, according to research scientists. HoodiaSlim can be purchased over the counter, but the presence of the pure form of the plant is questionable. Phytopharm, a pharmaceutical company, has begun adding Hoodia derivatives to its diet foods, including shakes and bars. However, the effectiveness of this form of the plant is most likely non-existent. At this time, one company is promoting sixty capsules, or about a 2-week supply, for approximately $12.00.

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