Obesity is one of the main causes for the various health problems suffered by people the world over. It has been found that nearly half the population worldwide is overweight or obese. Combating weight gain has become a major concern for doctors and laymen alike. This situation has risen out of sedentary working conditions and bad food habits followed by most of us. Obviously a comprehensive change in lifestyle is much needed to overcome this gargantuan problem. The hoodia diet is a fast, easy and safe way out till necessary changes in lifestyle is made.

Hoodia is a succulent flowering plant found only in the Kalahari Desert in southern Africa. It is also known as xhooba, !khoba, Ghaap, hoodia cactus and South African desert cactus. The plant grows in clumps of green upright stems with spines and looks very similar to cactus. The San Bushmen of the South Kalahari Desert have been using this plant to suppress hunger and thirst while going on long hunts for centuries. It is also used by them as medicine for various ailments.

The plant grows wild only in the remote desert areas of South Africa, Namibia and Botswana and is now considered to be an endangered species. It takes around 5 years to mature and flower. Since it needs very hot and arid desert like conditions to grow, it is very difficult to cultivate it commercially.

There are nearly 20 types of hoodia of which only the species hoodia gordonii has appetite suppressing properties. Clinical research has identified a molecule named P57, found only in the species hoodia gordonii, as the ingredient that suppresses hunger and thirst. The P57 molecule tricks the brain into believing that the stomach is full by mimicking the effect of glucose on the nerve cells in the brain. It removes hunger pangs helps to combat your desire to overeat and thus you don’t feel deprived or crave for food. It even makes you stop thinking of food. It also acts as a mood enhancer making you feel good. It contains many nutrients making it a good tonic too.

Hoodia works quickly or slowly depending on person to person. It may work as fast as in 30 minutes or may take even as long as 20 days.

Hoodia has been found to be safe during clinical research. Trials done on animals have It is a natural, organically grown herb, having no dangerous stimulants. There is no danger of the side effects associated with other weight reducing drugs. It works by suppressing hunger thus promoting weight loss. Just remember to drink enough water since it also suppresses thirst. The South Kalahari Bushmen has been safely using it for generations.

Hoodia works only as an appetite suppressant. Regular exercise and a healthy diet plan are very necessary for getting the desired result.

Today, hoodia is heavily marketed all over the world in the form of pills, powders and in liquid form as the new miracle diet supplement. Many drug companies are selling hoodia online. Check for certification to ensure it is the genuine article.