May 8, 2008
Hoodia Side Effects: Is Hoodia Safe When Breastfeeding?
If you are a new mom you are probably ready to lose the weight and get your pre-pregnancy figure back. Diet pills that promise quick and easy weight loss can surely be tempting. One such diet pill is hoodia. Although there are virtually no hoodia side effects with this diet pill, it is still strongly advised that you avoid taking hoodia if you are breastfeeding.
Authentic hoodia gordonii is considered to be very safe with virtually no side effects. Despite this, it is not recommended for breastfeeding moms to take hoodia diet pills. In all of my research, I could not find any scientific reasons or otherwise as to why this advice is given. However, I do have some theories as to why breastfeeding moms should avoid taking hoodia supplements.
Hoodia is an appetite suppressant. If it passes through to your breast milk, and there is no proof that it does or doesn't, but if it does, it is likely that your baby's appetite will probably be suppressed as well. Everyone knows that a baby needs all the milk and nourishment she can hold. No one wants their baby to feel "full" when her body is actually hungry. That isn't healthy.
The second reason you should avoid hoodia while you are breastfeeding is that you need to keep your calorie levels up. Hoodia diet pills work by making you feel full sooner. This results in less food being consumed. Feeding a baby requires you to have an adequate, well balanced and nutritious diet. You do not want the quality of your breast milk to be effected by consuming insufficient nourishment.
An excellent way to start getting back into shape is to put your baby in the stroller and go for a brisk walk each day. Start off slow until you build up your energy levels. When doing any form of exercise while breastfeeding it is vital to keep your water intake up. Take a water bottle with you and make sure you drink it. Dehydration and breastfeeding do not go hand-in-hand.
If exercising on your own for weight loss doesn't motivate you, consult with your medical practitioner or local clinic for post natal exercise groups in your area. Surrounding yourself with other new moms may be exactly what you are looking for to keep you interested and motivated.
It can be tempting to take diet supplements when you are breastfeeding. But, keep in mind that breastfeeding itself increases your metabolism. You don't need weight loss supplements now. Eat a healthy diet and combine that with exercise and you will soon be on your way to your pre-baby figure.
Hearing how many women are finding weight loss success with hoodia and having no side effects can be tempting, but do what's best for your baby and hold off until after you are done breastfeeding. Your baby won't breastfeed forever. Eating right and moderate exercise is the best thing for you and your baby right now.
Filed under Diet by Reagan Miers









