Source: Hoodia Balance

Editor's Note: As with any weight loss product, it's a good idea to ask 'Are there any side effects?'. This article covers the possible Hoodia side effects. This way you can make an informed decision before deciding to take Hoodia.  As with any product, please consult your doctor before making any diet or lifestyle changes. 

A lot of research and development programs were undertaken before launching the finished Hoodia Gordonii weight–loss product in the market. It has been established that Hoodia Gordonii can safely reduce your appetite so you can restrict your caloric intake up to one kilo calories per day.

Studies performed to date show no harmful side effects among those supplementing their diet with Hoodia Gordonii. While there are no documented Hoodia side effects, there are still there are few rumors of a ‘mild aphrodisiac and mood elevation’.  Also many people (happily) report not even thinking about food throughout the day.

As further evidence of no side effects, Hoodia has also been used for centuries by the San Tribesman in South Africa with no ill effects.  The local tribesman have used Hoodia to stave off hunger for years during hunting expeditions (when food would be scarce).

An element known, as ‘P57’ is apparently what is responsible for a reducing hunger.  It fools the hunger/fullness center in your brain (the hypothalamus) into thinking you've had enough to eat.  In fact, experts say that P57 is actually 10,000 times stronger than glucose at signalling your hypothalamus to stop eating.

While Hoodia itself may be safe to take and cause no ill effects, you do have to consider the side effects if Hoodia is used in the wrong way.

For example, people with eating disorders or distorted body image should probably not be taking Hoodia.  Also, just to be extra safe, pregnant and nursing mothers should also probably not be taking Hoodia.  Pregnant and nursing mothers need all of the high quality nutrition they can get. So taking a supplement that kills the desire to eat is probably not the best idea.

Furthermore, you probably don't want to be taking Hoodia forever, especially as it can make a big dent in your pocketbook. Plan to use the powerful effects of Hoodia to help you while you lose weight and establish healthier eating habits.

Bottom Line? While Hoodia itself has shown no ill side effects up to this point, you should make sure you consult your doctor before taking it. It's also not recommended for pregnant or nursing mothers or people who are suffering with body image disorders or eating disorders.

If you think Hoodia is right for you, check out our Best Hoodia Buys page.

Was this information helpful? This page on Hoodia Side Effects is one of several articles found on our Hoodia Information page.