What is HCG?
HCG stands for Human Chorionic Gonadotropin which is naturally produced in the body.
How does HCG work?
Although produced in much larger amounts during pregnancy, in minute amounts, it acts in much the same way by rapidly mobilizing fat stores to a larger degree than typically seen.
Is HCG safe?
Although side effects are rare and minimal, it is important to undertake this diet under the care of a physician.
Can I lose the same amount of weight eating a very low calorie diet?
You will lose weight using a very low calorie diet. However, as we have all experienced, you will most likely lose muscle and further slow down your metabolism. In addition, HCG allows you to lose fat in the areas that are typically the most difficult including the abdomen, hips and upper thighs.
Why is it important to eat a 500 calorie diet?
HCG alone will not cause weight loss. It must be combined with a very low calorie diet and low impact aerobic exercise to help you achieve your goals. However, skipping meals will not increase your weight loss.
How much weight can I anticipate losing?
The HCG diet lasts for approximately 42 days. Initially, your weight loss will be ~1-2 pounds per day. This will decrease as you continue the program. At some point in the diet, your weight may plateau. Do not be discouraged. You will still be losing inches. Weight loss typically resumes.
If you do not resume losing weight after 4 or more days, there are ways to break through this plateau.
Will I be hungry/tired/irritable on this diet?
These symptoms are most common during days 4-10 of this diet and typically subside. During this time, adequate water consumption is essential. Most of us confuse hunger with dehydration.
How do I take HCG?
Although homeopathic HCG in sublingual (under the tongue) drops is available, it has been our experience that subcutaneous injections produce a much greater weight loss result.
How hard is it to take HCG injections?
HCG comes in prefilled syringes which eliminates mixing and drawing the correct amount. Subcutaneous injections in the abdomen are simple for most people to learn and you will be shown how prior to beginning the diet. You will be provided with all the necessary supplies.
Can I take my regular medications and supplements during this diet?
As HCG is a natural hormone, it should not interfere with any of your current medications. However, you should not take any oil based supplements such as fish oil and vitamin E. HCG makes your metabolism very sensitive to fats and oils and will decrease your weight loss during the diet.
What side effects should I expect?
Headache is the most common symptom during the first few days as your body adjusts to the diet and is easily relieved by an over the counter pain reliever. Some people also experience constipation which can be relieved by drinking more water and adding a fiber supplement to your diet.
Is the weight loss I experience during the HCG diet permanent?
Like any other diet, the HCG diet does not result in permanent weight loss. Rather it is designed to give you a ‘jump start’ to living a healthier lifestyle.
Despite years of successful use for the purpose of weight loss, HCG is not approved by the FDA for weight loss. The FDA acknowledges HCG is used for weight loss by requiring the following statement:
“HCG has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration as safe and effective in the treatment of obesity or weight control. There is no substantial evidence that HCG increases weight loss beyond that resulting from caloric restriction, that it causes a more attractive or ‘normal’ distribution of fat or that it decreases the hunger and discomfort associated with calorie restrictive diets.”
