Are There Hoodia Side Effects When Breastfeeding?
Apr 23rd, 2008 by Travis Van Slooten
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.
Since hoodia works to suppress the appetite, it is only reasonable to believe that if it passes into your breast milk your baby’s appetite may be suppressed too. Since a baby needs all the nourishment she can get, the last thing a baby should feel is “full” when she isn’t. A baby needs all the nourishment she can hold so she can grow healthy.
Another reason why breastfeeding moms may want to stay away from hoodia is a lactating mom needs a lot of calories to stay healthy and strong. Taking an appetite suppressant will make a woman feel full sooner. This means she will eat less, which means she probably won’t receive the caloric intake and nourishment she needs to sustain her own health.
One of the easiest ways a breastfeeding mom can get back into shape is to walk. Put the baby in her stroller and take a walk with her each day. You can increase the duration and pace of the walk as time passes and you become stronger. It’s important that you stay hydrated when you are breastfeeding. Dehydration is not a good thing for breastfeeding moms so be sure to drink plenty of fluids while you walk.
Another option to jump start weight loss is to take a class. Talk with your doctor, or check at your local hospital, to see if there are any exercise groups available for new moms. Many times you will find classes where you can take your baby along, too. These are like “mom and me” exercise classes.
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.
Yes, it is tempting to want to take hoodia diet pills. The lack of hoodia side effects makes it appear that it is safe, but breastfeeding moms should wait until their babies have weaned. No one wants a baby to feel “full” when she is not, or to have her appetite suppressed. Postpone taking hoodia until your baby no longer receives her nourishment from you.
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