Should Breastfeeding Moms Be Concerned About Hoodia Side Effects?
Posted by: Reagan Miers in HealthOnce the baby arrives, most new moms begin to think about losing a bit of weight. Many new moms may be tempted to opt for a diet pill to help kick start the weight loss process. Some of the most popular weight loss supplements sold today are hoodia diet pills. While they have been shown to be safe with little to no hoodia side effects, breastfeeding moms are advised not to take them.
You should wait until your baby is no longer breastfeeding to start this, or any other, weight loss supplement. Yes, it is true that hoodia gordonii has no reported side effects, but if you do any research on it or simply read the labels on hoodia supplements, you’ll see the warning against breastfeeding moms taking it. There doesn’t appear to be any specific reasons for this warning but I have a couple theories.
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.
While you may be tempted to take various diet supplements while you are breastfeeding, it is not recommended. Breastfeeding alone is increasing your metabolism. A sensible diet combined with gentle exercise will be far more beneficial for you and your baby. Your baby is relying on you to provide all of their nourishment.
Despite the recorded hoodia side effects being almost unheard of, it is still not recommended that breastfeeding mothers take this diet supplement. Postpone the hoodia diet pills until after you have finished breastfeeding. A sensible diet and gentle post natal exercise will have you glowing and toned up in no time.
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