By: WeightLossAnswers.org, Wed Apr 25th, 2007

Hoodia is a type of plant that has long been regarded as an appetite suppressant. The plant originates in Africa, where many companies seek to take the plant and sell it on the dieting pill market. The effects it has on appetite make it extremely valuable to those who wish to lose weight, but have a frustrating appetite.

The ingredient in the plant has been isolated, and named P57. Harvesting the plant requires a license, since there is a huge demand. Attempts to synthesize the P57 ingredient led by United Kingdom researchers have failed, leading to the inflation of the costs, since the plants are in limited supply. Some companies have been charged with getting around this by reducing the P57 levels to a level that is ineffective, yet still claims that they have the Hoodia ingredient in the pills. For this reason, it is a good idea to investigate the company you are buying from before committing to an agreement of sale.

No clear study on humans has proven that the P57 actually works. Tests on rats show that the ingredient was broken down by the liver fairly easy- making large doses needed, which can be both expensive and potentially dangerous. However, many claim that the appetite suppressing qualities do indeed exist, although these claims might be a result of a placebo effect. Another study of 7 people showed that it did indeed have a positive effect of suppressing appetites, but the general consensus of the medical community shows that the drug is for the most part undocumented.

Much spam or marketing may fill your email inboxes encouraging you to buy hoodia products and you may see many internet ads or commercials about it. Many claim that the drug does in fact suppress ones appetite. The only Real test is to try it for yourself. The lack of studies has let diet pill companies run wild with their marketing.

In the end, trying the drug might be a good idea if you have a problem suppressing your appetite. It has shown success in small studies, and in user testimonials. It has received a lot of attention by media, so some type of effect is at least expected in the aid of dieting and weight loss. If you are indeed looking to try the pill, make sure you avoid any scams. Some companies will claim the Hoodia plant is the active ingredient, but will actually not have a substantial amount. You should talk to your doctor first, before deciding to try it.

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