How Does the HCG Diet Work?

To realize weight loss goals and maintain a healthy weight, a comprehensive, medically supervised program can help. HCG is a protein-based hormone that the body produces during pregnancy. It aids in maintaining the production of vital hormones like progesterone to support the healthy growth and development of the uterus and fetus.

The HCG diet has been popular for many years. HCG is a hormone that was first used in weight loss back in the 1950s. This hormonal diet is a medical weight loss plan initiated by Albert T. W. Simeons, who claimed that the HCG regimen helped the body use stored fat, particularly within the thighs, stomach, and hips. Later research has not supported those claims.

The HCG diet combines hormone supplements or utilizing injections of chronic gonadotropin and calorie restriction for weight loss. Proponents of a popular diet containing HCG argue that they can reset the body's metabolism and fix abnormal eating trends. The HCG diet is based on the idea of altering the body's hormones to convert fat into fuel.

Phases of the HCG Diet Plan

Loading phase: The loading phase claims to prepare the body's calorific restriction. During this phase, people consume high levels of fats, including high-calorie foods up to 250 grams of fat daily. Daily HCG hormone supplements or injections are initiated during this period.

Weight loss phase: During this phase, adherents continue their HCG supplements while eating either 500 or 800 calories per day spread over two meals. This medical weight loss phase may last for three to six weeks, depending on the individual loss mission.

Maintenance Phase: When an individual is put on an HCG diet and has shed the desired amount of weight, they discontinue supplementation of HCG hormone while gradually increasing calories.

What to Know Before Considering HCG

Prescription HCG is FDA-approved for certain medical conditions, but it is not FDA-approved for weight loss. FDA-required labeling for HCG states that it has not been shown to increase weight loss beyond what results from calorie restriction, or to reduce hunger. Very low-calorie diets can cause side effects and are not appropriate for everyone.

Your provider will review your health history, current medications, and goals before discussing whether any weight management option may be appropriate for you. Individual results vary.

What to Eat and Avoid on the HCG Diet Plan

The HCG diet restricts calories. According to the HCG diet plan, the following are a list of approved foods:

• Some fruits, including strawberries, apples, red grapefruit, and limited oranges.
• Non-starchy vegetables including onions, lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes.
• Lean meat: Chicken breast, shrimp, lobster, and lean ground beef.

If you have questions about HCG or other medical weight management options, please reach out to schedule a consultation. A consultation does not guarantee that any medication will be prescribed.