Many people who are dealing with weight gain are in a constant research mode, seeking the best ingredients to use that will help facilitate weight loss. In the recent past we heard about how effective Ephedra was, sadly however; it was found to be the cause of devastating consequences including death. There is another supplement that has been creating a stir in the past few years, Hoodia Gordonii. This article will look at the pros and cons of Hoodia.

Hoodia Gordonii is a plant that originates from South Africa and has been used historically by the various tribal peoples for resisting hunger. From looking at how the tribal peoples use Hoodia today, it has been shown to have had no ill effects.

Hoodia has the compound P57 which is the active agent for the suppression of apatite, resulting in less hunger when taken. Studies done concerning Hoodia have shown this supplement to be very helpful in weight loss for people who are obese and equally interesting is the studies showed no ill side effects.

Hoodia has been found to be without stimulant side effects such as are found with Ephedra, which acts on the body by increasing the metabolic rate. Hoodia has also been found to not possess other side effects such as raising the person's blood pressure, or raising the heart rate. Hoodia also does not give the person taking it nausea or nervousness.

That was the good news, now we must discuss the unknowns of Hoodia. For one thing the body of research and evidence is small and therefore much is not known about Hoodia and how it behaves. Hoodia's one main behavior is that it quells a person's appetite and thirst. Dehydration is the effect of a repressed thirst, so anyone using Hoodia must drink as much water as possible.

For those who are diabetic, the use of Hoodia is not recommended due to the possible sudden drop in blood sugar levels. Another unknown concerning Hoodia is how the supplement reacts with other medications, so it is always advisable for anyone considering Hoodia use to discuss this plan of action with their Doctor.

Hoodia's main benefit is that when ingested, the lack of hunger will last 10 to 12 hours or in some cases longer. Well known TV New Show Hosts have been to South Africa and done investigative reports on the benefits of Hoodia.