Hoodia Diet Patch And Pills
Hoodia Gordonii, Hoodia for short, is an extract found in South African cacti. This extract has long been known to
curb appetite and is a traditional suppressant used by the San Bushmen of the Kalahari desert during long hunting
expeditions. In its more marketable form, Hoodia is contained in skin patches or pills. Both forms are intended
to suppress hunger and are considered a diet aid. Hoodia patches work by adhering to the skin. To be most
effective, a patch is applied to a clean and hairless spot on the skin for 24 hours. After 24 hours, the patch is
discarded, and another patch is placed on the skin, in a new spot, to minimize possible skin irritation.
These patches contain trace amounts of Hoodia, which is said to be absorbed through the skin into the blood stream,
directly affecting the hunger response. Hoodia pills are taken orally. Different companies offer varying amounts
of Hoodia extract in pill form, but to be effective, experts recommend a daily intake of 3 grams pure Hoodia. In
addition to the patch and pill, those hoping to lose weight with Hoodia should consider exercise. Hoodia
suppresses appetite, but it works best in combination with light exercise and increased water intake.
Who Created Hoodia?
Hoodia has been around for centuries, but it became popular in the United States in 2004. In November of the same
year, CBS aired a segment on it show "60 Minutes," discussing the weight-loss benefits of this extract.
Medical Studies
Although Hoodia is an herbal supplement and, therefore, can't tested by the FDA, various studies have found that
it does seem to work. The British pharmaceutical company, Phytopharm, did a study on Hoodia and found it to be
effective in weight loss. In oral form, Hoodia resulted in 30 to 40 percent caloric reduction in obese diets.
Many Hoodia scams exist. For example, some companies sell Hoodia supplements that use Hoodia plant roots, which
have no suppressant qualities. Also, beware that the patches are not as effective as the pills because they
can't release the 3 grams of pure Hoodia extract needed daily.
