Do you know what exactly is Hoodia, what does it do, and how will it help you lose weight? Here is a review of Hoodia gordonii as well as what you need to know before you buy hoodia. What is hoodia? Hoodia gordonii is a cactus of the “succulent” cactus family, which has grown for thousands of years in the Kalahari desert region. Has been used by the indigenous Bushmen as a natural appetite suppressant and thirst quencher during their long hunting trips for generations. How does hoodia work? Scientists believe that the reason for hoodia’s appetite suppressing abilities is a molecule called “P57?. Normally, when you eat the glucose in your body rises and eventually signals to your brain (the hypothalamus) that you are full. It is believed that “P57? molecule in hoodia mimics the effect that glucose has on your brain, telling part of your brain (the Hypothalamus) that you feel full. Consequently, you have no desire to eat. Does hoodia help people lose weight?
One of the first studies of hoodia gordonii was done in the UK on obese patients. Half of the volunteers were given hoodia gordonii, the other half were given a placebo. The subjects were allowed to read, watch television and eat. After 15 days it was found that those taking hoodia had reduced their calorie intake like a 1200 calorie diet plan. Despite having unlimited access to food, the hoodia subjects lost weight. Is hoodia safe? Since hoodia is a plant (versus a man-made chemical), it is completely natural and experts say it is safe to eat. Scientists have been studying hoodia for almost 10 years and have not found any side effects. (Not to mention the San Tribesman who have been eating hoodia for years with seemingly no ill effects). What can you do? One way to tell if a hoodia pill is real is to look for a document called the C.I.T.E.S. Certificate (The convention on international trade in endangered species of wild fauna and flora). Since the hoodia plant is a protected plant species it can only be sold to an exporter who has this certificate.