Are There Hoodia Side Effects When Breastfeeding?
Once 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.
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.
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.
