Dangers of Hoodia Gordonii

The indigenous people of South Africa are known for ingesting hoodia gordonii--a spiny, cactus-like plant--before hunting trips. Food can be scarce when traveling through unknown regions of South Africa, so taking an appetite suppressant seems like the logical thing to do. In recent years, its popularity in mainstream media has blossomed, prompting research concerning the safety of hoodia. Below is the cautionary advice that stemmed from the research.

Not Enough Vitamins

• While suppressing one's appetite is a way to lose weight, there is always the potential that a person would not be getting enough of the vitamins they usually get from eating. A discussion with a medical professional is the best way to ensure that all necessary vitamins are being ingested, whether it be through a special diet or through vitamins in pill form.

Not for Pregnant Women

• The side effects of hoodia gordonii on a fetus are not known at this time. But in general, depriving a fetus of much-needed food and vitamins is never a good idea.

Not for Diabetics

• Diabetics must already adhere to a strict diet and health regime, and taking an appetite suppressant on top may prove disastrous.

Potential for Abuse

• As with any appetite suppressant, it should be used only by people who actually have a weight problem. This is not for someone who has an eating or self-image disorder, such as anorexia or body dysmorphic disorder.

Impure Hoodia

• Just because the label says "hoodia gordonii" does not mean that each pill is made of 100 percent hoodia. It is common for companies to add fillers and dilute the hoodia to make production cheaper. While the hoodia may not have side effects, the fillers might. Be sure to purchase 100 percent hoodia from a reputable company.