David MacLean, MD, an adjunct associate professor at Brown University in Providence, R. I. says, “A chemical within that class of molecules has real potential to reduce appetite… I’m less confident regarding the hoodia molecule itself for reasons relating to its metabolism [absorption and breakdown] in humans. ” Although some researchers are skeptical, there are many who have research that supports hoodia as an effective dieting supplement. (http://www. webmd. com/diet/guide/hoodia-lots-of-hoopla-little-science? page=1)
Goldfarb studied on supplement on seven overweight participants who were told to take Hoodia gordonii (DEX L-10) capsules twice a day. They were also instructed to eat a balanced breakfast and take a multivitamin, and keep other eating and exercise habits the same. “The participants’ starting weights ranged from 193 to 345 pounds. They lost, on average, 3. 3% of their body weight, Goldfarb says. The median loss over the 28-day study was 10 pounds (half lost more, half less). ” (http://www. webmd. com/diet/guide/hoodia-lots-of-hoopla-little-science?
page=2) They are going to conduct another larger study, but according to this one it is quite possible that the supplement helps. There weren’t any negative side effects reported. Supposedly, there is an area of the brain that the ‘P57’ will stimulate, telling your body that you are full. It wouldn’t be realistic to make pills out of the active ingredient in the Hoodia plant. “Hoodia is grows in extremely hot conditions, and the plant takes years to reach maturity. ” (http://www. onhealth. com/script/main/art. asp?
articlekey=57305) Apparently, the ingredient that so many companies are raving about needs very special nurturing that South Africa, which is the main origin of the wonder supplement, is the only place that is has been found. It has to be grown in a lab under specific conditions. This scientific research is suggesting that Hoodia can not be mass produced in it’s own natural habitat. It can be assumed that Hoodia in massive quantity is not completely natural, but is genetically altered to meet the demands of the population.
Although studies show results in favor of Hoodia as an effective weight loss assistance, mass production is still questionable. The certainty of the genetically produced Hoodia gordonii that comes from labs being all natural and safe for any overweight person can not honestly be guaranteed. It has proven effective in many cases when combined with a multivitamin and antioxidants. Science supports the possibility of the natural supplement suppressing appetite, but that is about all. Many sales claims are exaggerated at best.