What foods are allowed in Phase 1 of the HCG diet. How does HCG impact metabolism and weight loss. Why is a slow metabolism problematic for weight management. Can HCG treatment effectively combat slow metabolism and promote rapid weight loss.

Understanding HCG and Its Role in Weight Loss

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) is a protein-based hormone naturally produced during pregnancy. Its potential for weight loss has garnered significant attention in recent years. But how does HCG contribute to shedding those stubborn pounds?

HCG’s primary function in weight loss is its ability to enhance metabolism. By introducing HCG into the body, it can potentially accelerate the process of converting food into energy, making it an effective tool for rapid weight reduction. This hormone affects both men and women, increasing testosterone production in males while influencing ovulation and fertility in females.

The Science Behind HCG and Metabolism

Metabolism plays a crucial role in weight management. When metabolism slows down, individuals often struggle with weight gain or find it challenging to lose weight. HCG addresses this issue by targeting the body’s metabolic rate, potentially offering a solution for those who have found limited success with traditional diet and exercise regimens.

• HCG stimulates the hypothalamus, which regulates metabolism
• It may help preserve muscle mass during calorie restriction
• HCG could promote the use of stored fat for energy

The HCG Diet: A Two-Pronged Approach to Weight Loss

The HCG diet combines hormone therapy with a specific eating plan. This dual approach aims to maximize weight loss potential while minimizing hunger and preserving muscle mass. But what exactly does the HCG treatment entail?

1. HCG Administration: This can be through injections performed by medical professionals or over-the-counter options.
2. Caloric Restriction: A carefully structured diet plan accompanies the hormone therapy.

It’s important to note that the HCG diet should be undertaken under medical supervision to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Phase 1 of the HCG Diet: Setting the Foundation

Phase 1 of the HCG diet, often referred to as the “loading phase,” is crucial for preparing the body for the subsequent stages of the diet. What does this phase entail, and why is it considered so important?

During Phase 1, which typically lasts 2-3 days, individuals are encouraged to eat high-fat, high-calorie foods. This may seem counterintuitive for a weight loss program, but there’s a specific reason behind this approach.

The Purpose of the Loading Phase

• Prepares the body for the low-calorie phase that follows
• Builds up fat stores to be used as energy during calorie restriction
• Helps prevent severe hunger pangs in the initial days of calorie reduction

HCG Diet Phase 1 Food List: What’s On the Menu?

The food list for Phase 1 of the HCG diet is quite different from what you might expect in a typical weight loss program. What foods are recommended during this loading phase?

• High-fat meats: bacon, sausage, fatty cuts of beef
• Full-fat dairy products: cheese, cream, whole milk
• Nuts and nut butters
• Avocados
• Oils and butter
• Desserts and sweets (in moderation)

It’s important to remember that while these foods are allowed during Phase 1, they should be consumed mindfully. The goal is to increase calorie and fat intake, not to overindulge excessively.

Navigating the Challenges of a Slow Metabolism

A slow metabolism can be a significant obstacle in weight loss journeys. But what causes metabolism to slow down, and how can we address these factors?

Factors Contributing to Slow Metabolism

1. Age: Metabolism naturally slows as we get older
2. Dehydration: Insufficient water intake can impact metabolic processes
3. Eating Habits: High carbohydrate intake, especially refined sugars and grains
4. Genetics: Some metabolic tendencies are inherited
5. Hormonal Imbalances: Conditions like thyroid disorders can affect metabolism
6. Inactivity: Sedentary lifestyles contribute to slower metabolic rates
7. Medications: Certain drugs can slow metabolism as a side effect
8. Sleep Deprivation: Lack of adequate sleep can disrupt metabolic functions
9. Stress: Chronic stress can lead to hormonal imbalances affecting metabolism
10. Vitamin Deficiencies: Lack of essential nutrients can impair metabolic processes

Understanding these factors can help individuals make informed decisions about their health and weight management strategies.

The Role of HCG in Combating Slow Metabolism

HCG treatment offers a potential solution for those struggling with a slow metabolism. How does HCG address the various factors that contribute to metabolic slowdown?

• Hormonal Balance: HCG may help regulate hormones that influence metabolism
• Fat Utilization: The hormone could promote the body’s use of stored fat for energy
• Muscle Preservation: HCG might help maintain muscle mass during calorie restriction
• Appetite Regulation: Some users report reduced hunger on the HCG diet

By targeting these aspects, HCG treatment aims to create a more favorable environment for weight loss, even in individuals who have struggled with traditional methods.

Maximizing Results: Complementary Strategies to Support HCG Treatment

While the HCG diet can be effective on its own, combining it with other healthy lifestyle practices can enhance results. What additional strategies can support metabolism and weight loss during HCG treatment?

Hydration

Adequate water intake is crucial for maintaining a healthy metabolism. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water per day, adjusting based on activity level and climate.

Regular Exercise

Physical activity boosts metabolism and supports overall health. Incorporate a mix of cardio and strength training exercises into your routine.

Stress Management

Chronic stress can impede weight loss efforts. Explore stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.

Quality Sleep

Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to support hormonal balance and metabolic function.

Nutrient-Dense Foods

Even during the calorie-restricted phases of the HCG diet, focus on consuming nutrient-rich foods to support overall health and metabolism.

Safety Considerations and Potential Side Effects of HCG Treatment

While HCG treatment can be effective for weight loss, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and side effects. What should individuals consider before starting an HCG diet program?

• Medical Supervision: The HCG diet should be undertaken under the guidance of a healthcare professional
• Hormonal Effects: HCG can influence hormone levels, which may cause side effects in some individuals
• Nutritional Concerns: The very low-calorie phases of the diet may lead to nutrient deficiencies if not properly managed
• Gallstone Risk: Rapid weight loss can increase the risk of gallstone formation in some people
• Emotional Impact: Extreme calorie restriction can affect mood and energy levels

It’s crucial to discuss these potential risks with a healthcare provider before starting any HCG treatment program.

Long-Term Success: Transitioning from HCG Treatment to Sustainable Habits

While the HCG diet can jumpstart weight loss, long-term success depends on developing sustainable habits. How can individuals maintain their results after completing an HCG treatment program?

Gradual Calorie Increase

Slowly increase calorie intake to a sustainable level that supports weight maintenance.

Balanced Nutrition

Focus on a well-rounded diet that includes lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables.

Regular Physical Activity

Maintain an exercise routine that includes both cardiovascular activities and strength training.

Mindful Eating

Develop awareness of hunger cues and practice portion control to prevent overeating.

Ongoing Support

Consider working with a nutritionist or joining a support group to help maintain motivation and accountability.

By incorporating these strategies, individuals can work towards maintaining their weight loss and overall health improvements achieved through HCG treatment.

The Future of HCG in Weight Management: Ongoing Research and Developments

As interest in HCG for weight loss continues to grow, researchers are exploring new applications and refining existing protocols. What developments might we see in the future of HCG treatment?

Personalized Protocols

Researchers are investigating ways to tailor HCG treatment to individual metabolic profiles for optimized results.

Combination Therapies

Studies are exploring the potential benefits of combining HCG with other weight loss medications or supplements.

Long-Term Effects

Ongoing research aims to better understand the long-term impacts of HCG treatment on metabolism and overall health.

Alternative Delivery Methods

Scientists are exploring new ways to administer HCG that may be more convenient or effective than current methods.

As research progresses, we may see new and improved approaches to using HCG for weight management, offering hope to those struggling with obesity and related health issues.

The HCG diet, particularly its first phase, offers a unique approach to kickstarting weight loss and addressing slow metabolism. By combining hormone therapy with a structured eating plan, it aims to create an environment conducive to rapid fat loss while preserving muscle mass. However, as with any significant dietary change, it’s crucial to approach the HCG diet with caution and under professional guidance. Understanding the principles behind the diet, including the role of metabolism and the importance of sustainable habits, can help individuals make informed decisions about their weight loss journey. As research in this field continues to evolve, we may see even more refined and effective approaches to using HCG for weight management in the future.

What Can You Eat With the HCG Diet?

When a healthy diet and regular exercise aren’t giving the results you want, the HCG diet could be the answer. With proven effectiveness and a host of extraordinary benefits, this method is more than a diet; it’s a metabolism-boosting solution for those who are struggling to lose weight. We proudly curate HCG treatment plans at Slimedica in San Antonio, Texas. Below we explore everything you need to know about HCG and disclose what you can eat when on the HCG diet.

What Is HCG?

HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) is a protein-based hormone produced in women during pregnancy. The HCG hormone impacts ovulation and female fertility and increases the production of testosterone in men.

HCG also promotes weight loss in both men and women because it can help enhance metabolism. When introduced to the body, HCG increases metabolism, which makes it a powerful tool for quickly losing a substantial amount of weight. Metabolism is the process the body uses to turn food into energy. When the metabolism is sluggish or slow, people tend to gain weight or find it difficult to lose weight.

Slow Metabolism Woes

You’ve likely heard people say a slow metabolism causes their weight loss woes, but what causes a slow metabolism? Many factors contribute to a slowing of metabolism:

Age

Was there ever a time when you or someone you know could eat whatever they wanted without gaining weight? If so, this probably happened when you were well under 40, and especially in your early 20s. Metabolism slows as we age, especially when there is also a decrease in physical activity. Most people experience a slowing of metabolism as time passes.

Dehydration

Drinking water is vital for human survival, and at least half of the body is comprised of it. Dehydration is one of the top factors contributing to slow metabolism. Not drinking enough water throughout the day can have unintended consequences on metabolism and weight.

Eating Habits

Eating enormous amounts of carbohydrates slows the metabolism. Carbohydrates are broken down into sugar that is either burned quickly (in those with naturally-fast metabolisms) or stored as fat as our metabolism slows. The main culprits are refined white sugars and grains, but large amounts of any carbohydrate can make it harder to keep your metabolism running and reach your weight loss goals.

Genetics

Certain genetic factors play a role in the rate of metabolism. Although we can’t choose which genes are passed down to us, we can take action to support the metabolism in other ways. By acknowledging what we can and cannot change, we can combat a slow metabolism.

Hormones

Hormones influence the way the body processes food and fluids. Hormonal fluctuations or imbalances can impact the metabolism. Hormonal conditions like an overactive or underactive thyroid and diabetes dictate the rate the metabolism functions.

Inactivity

A sedentary lifestyle is often to blame for slowing metabolism. Exercise releases hormones in the body that promote the metabolic rate and encourage weight loss. A routine of aerobic exercise, combined with strength training, can put the body back into balance.

Medication

Certain medications are known to slow down the metabolism. Antidepressants, steroids, diabetes medication, hormone therapies, and medications that slow the heart rate can all contribute to weight gain. Not all medications in these classes impact the metabolism, but many do.

Sleep Deprivation

If you aren’t getting seven to nine hours of sleep every night, it could slow your metabolism. Sleep is the time when our body works overtime to heal and run all the processes necessary to keep the body healthy. A lack of sleep can spike blood sugar, which triggers an increase in insulin that the body converts to fat.

Stress

Most of us could admit that feeling stress doesn’t lead to the best eating habits, but stress is more than a mental inconvenience. When we feel stressed, the body produces the hormone cortisol. Ongoing stress creates an overexposure to cortisol, which could lead to a drop in testosterone production. Less testosterone can lead to a decrease in muscle mass, and fewer burned calories.

Vitamin Deficiencies

Not getting enough vital nutrients in the diet can cause the metabolism to slow. Research shows that deficiencies in calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, B vitamins, and iron play a role in metabolic functioning.

What Happens in HCG Treatment?

HCG treatment is a two-layered process designed to boost metabolism and help clients lose weight. This treatment involves HCG hormone therapy and caloric restriction through the use of the diet.

There are several methods for introducing the HCG hormone to the body to improve metabolism. Injecting HCG into the bloodstream is one way to receive this treatment. Injections of HCG are only performed by a trained medical professional. Other options include over-the-counter hormone tablets, sprays, and oral drops.

During HCG treatment, we introduce the hormone into your system, and you follow the diet until you reach your weight loss goals. The HCG works to eliminate fat while managing your food cravings and hunger pangs, and we work together to help you control the number of calories you eat.

What Is the HCG Diet?

The HCG diet is a very low-fat and low-calorie diet. It goes hand-in-hand with HCG Therapy. It is a restrictive diet, which means you must restrict how many calories you eat every day and monitor the food eaten. Most HCG dieters limit their caloric intake to 500 calories per day and only eat foods approved by the diet.

Because of the restrictive nature of the diet, losing weight with HCG requires commitment and dedication to your weight loss goals.

How Does It Work?

Calories in versus calories out; these days, we hear this thrown around everywhere for weight loss, and this is how the diet works. Many people eat more calories than they burn every day. When you want to lose weight, you must reduce the number of calories in the body every day. There are only two ways to cut calories: exercise and the restriction of food.

The Diet

By restricting your daily intake to 500 calories, you lose weight. For many people, sheer willpower isn’t enough to monitor calories. Using HCG therapy while restricting calories offers the support needed to make this change.

The Treatment

HCG hormone treatment curbs hunger during the diet, which makes it much easier to achieve the 500 calorie threshold without caving to cravings. Many clients report not feeling hungry when using HCG treatment.

Custom Planning

We tailor each treatment schedule to the individual needs of our clients. During your consultation, we will discuss your goals and come up with a treatment plan.

HCG treatment includes three phases, and we design your custom weight loss schedule by how much weight you want to lose. In general, your custom weight loss schedule will follow the guidelines below:

Phase One

The first phase of your HCG treatment is when you first take the hormones. You start by introducing the hormone to your body while continuing to eat high-calorie foods for two days. During this time, you can prepare for the next phase by learning about the approved foods for the diet and shopping accordingly. It also gives you time to prepare for all the significant changes on the way mentally.

Phase Two

After two days of eating high-calorie foods, you’ll begin the restrictive diet and supplement with HCG. On day three, reduce calories to 500 and only eat approved foods. This weight loss phase requires the most customization. In your consultation, we’ll discuss how much weight you want to lose. This amount of weight dictates the duration of phase two. Phase two usually lasts anywhere from three to six weeks.

During this phase, you learn that your body doesn’t need processed foods and excessive calories. This time is often both exciting and reflective when you learn more about your eating habits and beliefs about what is possible. Watching the weight melt away is often all the incentive clients need to continue.

Phase Three

During this period, you’ll stop taking HCG and gradually increase the number of calories you eat. The diet still places restrictions on what you can eat during this phase, but the limits aren’t as dramatic. You should avoid sugar and starch in phase three, but you may eat more calories.

We also call this the maintenance phase. At the end of this phase, you can start eating carbs and sugar again. At the end of phase three, you can implement everything you learned during other phases.

Although you won’t take HCG or have as many restrictions on your diet, you can make the most of the time by engaging in eating habits that will help you keep the weight off.

What Are the Benefits?

With all the diets and weight loss options on the market, many people want to know what makes HCG treatment different. If you are like most people, you also want to know that all your hard work will pay off. Below we look at some incredible benefits of using HCG:

Weight Loss

HCG treatment is proven to help users lose weight. Many clients see results in as little as one week. Results of the treatment vary, but many people lose 7 to 28 pounds per week during treatment.

Improved Health

With weight loss comes an array of desirable improvements to health, including lowered cholesterol, triglycerides, blood pressure, decreased risk of disease, increased energy, fewer aches and pains, and an improvement in insulin sensitivity.

Slimmer Appearance

Health is paramount, but looking good never hurts. Often people find that the way they look after HCG treatment is one of the biggest motivators for keeping weight off.

Performance Enhancement

Taking HCG can increase workout performance and prevent you from losing muscle mass while on the restrictive diet. Using this treatment can help you reach your ideal fitness level. HCG has even become the ideal testosterone enhancement option for bodybuilders who don’t want to risk the negative consequences that come with steroid use.

Libido Boost

The sexual hormones aren’t excluded from the equation when HCG balances the body’s hormones. Men and women alike sometimes find that desire increases during treatment.

Fertility Support

HCG supports fertility in women and men. For women, this treatment can trigger ovulation and help them prepare for pregnancy. HCG can increase sperm count in men and improve the chances of conception.

What Can I Eat With the HCG Diet?

The HCG diet is results-driven. By following the diet strictly, you can reap the most benefits. During the diet, you will eat lunch and dinner every day. During these two meals, you must consume protein, vegetables, fruit, and drinks from the approved diet list only.

Each food on the diet list is inspected for the amount of fat, sugar, carbohydrates, and protein found in each food type. Eating foods not found on the approved list impacts the results of the diet, so it’s crucial to follow the list. Remember that the diet requires restricting calories to only 500 per day, so you must count calories to follow the diet. Below we look at the approved foods for each category.

Protein

To follow the diet, you must eat 200 grams of protein twice daily. Protein sources are not created equally, so the diet requires that you eat from the following protein list. Vegans and vegetarians can also use the HCG diet by choosing the plant-based protein sources approved below.

• Approved protein shakes
• Buffalo
• Beef (extra lean and grass-fed only)
• Chicken
• Cottage cheese
• Crab
• Eggs (one whole and three whites per serving)
• Lobster
• Scallops
• Shrimp
• Tofu (in moderation because of estrogen production)
• Veggie or black bean burgers (non-breaded)
• Whitefish

Vegetables

The diet approves eating one cup of vegetables per meal for a total of two cups per day. Although vegetables are always healthier than snack foods, some are especially useful for losing weight with HCG. Approved vegetables are:

• Asparagus
• Beet greens
• Broccoli
• Cabbage
• Cauliflower
• Celery
• Chard
• Cucumber
• Fennel
• Greens
• Onions
• Radishes
• Shallots
• Spinach
• Tomatoes

Fruit

This diet isn’t entirely without sweets. It requires two servings of fruit every day. Eat one serving of the fruit options below with each meal:

• Apples
• Blueberries
• Grapefruit
• Lemon
• Oranges
• Raspberries
• Strawberries

Drinks

It’s always best to drink as much water as possible, but this is particularly useful when in the weight loss phase of the diet. Water doesn’t have any calories, so you are free to drink as much water as you want.

You may also drink coffee and tea as long as you do not add sugar, creamer, or milk. You may add a little stevia to sweeten your coffee or tea. Hydration is a vital part of the dieting process, so drink plenty of fluids every day.

What Can I Expect?

Although it might seem like a lot of work to plan for the diet, it gets more comfortable with time. Losing weight is a lifestyle, and by learning the foods that will help you achieve your weight-loss objectives, you can learn to create delicious meals from the approved list.

Just because the diet is restrictive doesn’t mean that you have to endure bland and boring meals. Instead of using unapproved condiments and flavorings, experiment with natural herbs to flavor food. You might find that after the diet is over that, you crave healthier alternatives.

Embarking on your HCG journey takes discipline and commitment; however, it delivers fast and rewarding results that make all your effort worth it.

Am I a Good Candidate?

When your diet and exercise routine still isn’t delivering the weight loss results you want, HCG could be a good option for you. Deciding to use HCG to lose weight is best discussed with our medical professionals at Slimedica. We can help you map out the weight loss method that is effective and safe.

Schedule Your Consultation

Are you interested in learning more about what the HCG diet could do for you? Our expert staff can help you find a solution that fits your needs best. Contact us today at Slimedica in San Antonio, Texas to schedule your consultation.

HCG Weight Loss | Optimal Health and Wellness

In 2018, roughly 39.6% of Americans, or 100 million people, were obese. Obesity is a risk factor for numerous medical conditions, including heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, hypertension and high cholesterol. At Optimal Health and Wellness in Pasadena, CA, we want you to know that you can mitigate your risk of life-threatening illnesses through HCG weight loss. Today, we review HCG weight loss as a viable weight-loss tool.

What Is HCG?

HCG, also known as human chorionic gonadotropin, is sometimes called the pregnancy hormone. An elevated level of this hormone in urine is used to identify pregnancy. It is commonly used to treat infertility in both men and women. However, since 1954, doctors have considered the HCG diet program to be an excellent weight-loss tool. This was first proposed by British doctor Albert Simeons, who theorized drastic weight loss could be achieved via a 500-calorie-per-day limit and regular injections of human chorionic gonadotropin. Science has since proven his theory correct.

What Is the Function of HCG In My Body?

Human chorionic gonadotropin is a protein-based hormone necessary for the production of estrogen and progesterone. This includes the conversion of testosterone to estrogen in men. However, the most important function of HCG in your body is the weight loss mechanism. First, HCG revs your metabolism so you naturally burn more calories. Second, it curbs hunger, reducing cravings and making it easier to stick to a very-low-calorie diet.

What Can I Eat on the HCG Diet?

The HCG diet program is very low in fat and calories and divided into three phases. The first is the loading phase which involves taking HCG and eating lots of high-calorie, high-fat foods for two days. The second phase, known as the weight loss phase, involves taking HCG while eating only 500 calories per day for three to six weeks.

The third and “final” phase of the HCG diet lasts three weeks. At this point, you are no longer taking HCG and you increase your consumption of food slowly. However, you must avoid sugar and other forms of carbohydrates.

One of the questions we get about HCG weight loss is which foods are acceptable throughout the plan.

Phase 1 Meal Plan

During the first phase of the HCG diet, you want to eat fat-dense food. Good examples include salmon sauteed in olive oil and drizzled with melted butter, bacon cheeseburgers, chicken liver sandwiches and nuts. Avocados are another great source of healthy fats. Just do your best to minimize the consumption of saturated fats and do not consume trans fats. During your initial consultation, we will help you devise a meal plan to help you enter ketosis before you really start the HCG diet.

Ketosis is a fuel consumption phase your body enters when your glycogen stores are depleted. Depending on how many calories you burn each day and your starting glycogen stores, this can take between 48 and 72 hours. Entering ketosis before phase 2 of the HCG diet is essential because it prevents all the nasty side effects of dieting, such as dizziness, headaches and vertigo.

Phase 2 Meal Plan

Once your body is in ketosis, you are ready to proceed to the second phase of the HCG diet. Because you are only allowed 500 calories daily, eat as little fat as possible. Fat has nine calories per gram while protein is excellent for keeping you full and has only four calories per gram.

So, what exactly should you include in your phase 2 meal plan? For protein, eat egg whites, chicken, turkey and game meat. If you’re not sold on the idea of game meat, eat lean red meat. Make sure you drain the fat that releases when cooking. For carbs, eat whatever low-carb seasonal fruit and veggies are available. Apples, asparagus, broccoli, spinach, Swiss chard and kale are great filling, low-carb produce options.

Phase 3 Meal Plan

The final three weeks of the HCG diet involves eating at maintenance for your desired body weight. If you haven’t reached your goal weight yet, this will allow you to continue losing weight slowly while teaching you how you should eat for the rest of your life to remain healthy. You can eat healthy fats, like nuts, oils and avocados. However, you should still avoid starchy vegetables, added sugars and high-carb fruits.

Phase 4 Meal Plan

If after three to six weeks of phase 2 and two to four weeks of phase 3 you haven’t reached your goal weight, you can re-start phase 2. Because the first three weeks of phase 3 exclude carbohydrates, your body is still in ketosis. Thus, you just need to come in for your HCG injections or tablets before you jump back into phase 2.

What Results Can I Expect During the HCG Diet?

Results from the HCG diet will vary on a case-by-case basis. At the very least, you can expect to lose half a pound of fat per day. During the first few days of the diet, you may lose three pounds of weight per day. However, this is due to losing water weight. For every gram of carbohydrates your body stores for future energy, it also holds between three and four grams of carbohydrates.

There are a couple of unit conversions that may help you understand the change you see in the scale. First, there are 453.592 grams in a pound. For simple arithmetic, we will round this down to 450 grams per pound.

Second, one gram is equivalent to one milliliter. Since there are four calories in a gram of carbohydrates, you would have to burn 1,800 calories to go through a pound of stored carbohydrate energy (glycogen). When you consider the three to four pounds of water your body stores with that single pound of carbohydrates, it is easy to understand that the four or five-pound weight loss on the scale isn’t fat yet.

What About Starvation Mode? Won’t My Body Eat My Muscle?

Starvation mode is real. We have all seen pictures of children with protruding stomachs who eat too few calories on a given day. However, this does not apply to individuals who are overweight, obese or morbidly obese. “Starvation mode” occurs when your body has no more fuel to burn except your muscle tissue.

Your body can use 34.1 calories per pound of body fat per day for fuel. Thus, if you had 120 pounds of body fat, your body could burn 4,092 calories daily from your fat stores. That doesn’t sound like starvation, does it?

I Won’t Experience Muscle Loss on This Diet?

Your body has two fuel sources for daily metabolic functions. The first is “sugar”, or carbohydrates. After you eat, the carbs you consume get converted into glycogen and stored in your liver for easy fuel consumption later. Only after these easy-to-access stores are depleted does the body turn to fat stores. This is one of the reasons it’s so important to eat very few carbs during the HCG diet. You want to keep your body burning fat for fuel instead of the carbohydrates you eat during the day.

For your body to consume its own muscle for fuel requires a lack of the two primary fuel sources: stored sugar and stored fat. If muscle loss occurs, it is from lack of use rather than your body using it as a fuel source. Keep in mind, it is essential to consume protein during your HCG diet. As long as you have body fat, your body will not convert the dietary protein into a form of sugar. Protein will keep you satiated and make sticking to the diet easier.

Should I Work Out During This Diet?

You should absolutely be physically active during the HCG diet. First of all, this will help you burn fat faster. Second, 150 minutes of moderate physical activity weekly is essential for heart health. Until you’ve reached your goal weight, aim for 300 minutes of moderate physical activity weekly. You’ll know your exercise is moderate if you can hold a conversation.

If you’re pressed for time, you can aim for 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous activity every week. Consider a scale from 0 to 20. If zero is lying in bed and 20 is sprinting as hard as you can, vigorous physical activity would be between 15 and 20 on a scale of perceived effort.

Indoor Rowing

Indoor rowing is by far the best exercise for anyone. It is easier on the joints than walking, matched only by water aerobics and swimming. It increases your VO2 max, enhances cardio-pulmonary endurance and can even build muscle. However, you can customize your workouts to focus on fat burn while you’re still trying to reach your goal weight. The muscle-building can come later.

If you have trouble sitting down and standing up, look for an indoor rower that is fairly high off the ground. Otherwise, look for a used Concept 2 Model C. This is the indoor rower the Olympians use to train and can withstand whatever you throw at it. If you can’t afford an indoor rower or gym membership, walking and stationary bicycles are other great ways to keep active on the HCG diet. During your initial consultation, we will work out a workout regimen to help you achieve your fitness goals along with your weight loss goals.

Is HCG Weight Loss Right for Me?

During your initial consultation, we will work with you to devise a safe, effective weight loss plan that suits your needs. HCG weight loss may be right for you if you suffer from medical conditions related to obesity and are ready to change your life for the better. Keep in mind, however, that there is no silver bullet for weight loss.

You must be committed to leading a healthy lifestyle once you lose the weight. Here’s what you need to exclude from your diet during the second and third phases:

• Fatty foods – nuts, salmon
• Starchy vegetables – potatoes, yams
• Added sugar

Take the First Step in Changing Your Life Today

Obesity is a life-threatening illness and often requires medical help to treat. HCG weight loss is a scientifically proven weight-loss method and might be just what you need to change your life, health and happiness for the better. To schedule your initial consultation, contact the dedicated health and wellness experts at Optimal Health and Wellness in Pasadena, CA today.

We will help you devise a healthy customized HCG weight loss plan that fits your lifestyle, palate and goals. We can’t wait to help you change your life for the better.

What is the hCG diet and does it work? – Drink-Drink

The hCG diet has been popular for many years.

Proponents claim it causes rapid weight loss of up to 1–2 pounds (0.5–1 kg) per day. Moreover, you should not feel hungry in the process.

However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considered this diet to be dangerous, illegal, and fraudulent.1, 2).

This article explores the science behind the hCG diet.

What is hCG?

The hCG hormone, or human chorionic gonadotropin, is present in high amounts in early pregnancy.

This hormone is actually used as a marker in home pregnancy tests (3).

It has also been used to treat fertility problems in both men and women.4, 5).

However, elevated blood levels of hCG can also be a symptom of several types of cancer, including placental, ovarian, and testicular cancers.3, 6, 7).

A British physician named Albert Simeons first proposed hCG as a weight loss aid in 1954.8).

His diet consisted of two main components:

• an ultra-low calorie diet of about 500 calories per day
• hCG hormone injections

Today, hCG products are sold in various forms, including oral drops, pellets and sprays. They are also available on countless websites and select retailers.

Conclusion

The hCG hormone is produced in early pregnancy. The hCG diet uses a combination of hCG and an extremely low calorie intake to achieve dramatic weight loss.

function of hCG in the body

HCG is a protein hormone produced by the body during pregnancy.

It helps support the production of important hormones, such as progesterone, to support healthy uterine and fetal growth (9, 10).

After the first 3-3 months of pregnancy, the level of hCG in the blood decreases.

Conclusion

The hCG hormone is produced in large quantities during the first 3 months of pregnancy. It stimulates the production of other important pregnancy hormones.

hCG and weight loss

Proponents of the hCG diet claim that it speeds up metabolism and helps you lose a lot of fat – all without feeling hungry.

Various theories attempt to explain the mechanisms of hCG weight loss.

However, numerous studies over the years have concluded that the weight loss achieved with the hCG diet comes only from ultra-low calorie intake. It has nothing to do with the hCG hormone (8, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15).

Most of these studies compared the effects of injections of hCG and placebo given to people on a calorie restricted diet. Weight loss was the same or nearly the same between the two groups.

In addition, these studies have shown that the hormone hCG does not reduce hunger.

Conclusion

Several studies show that weight loss on the hCG diet occurs only through severe calorie restriction. This has nothing to do with hCG, which is also ineffective in reducing hunger.

The effect of hCG on body composition

One common side effect of weight loss is a decrease in muscle mass (16).

This is especially common in diets that severely restrict calorie intake, such as the hCG diet.

Your body may also think that it is starving and reduce the number of calories burned to conserve energy (17).

Proponents of the hCG diet claim that it only causes fat loss, not muscle mass.

They also claim that hCG elevates other hormones, speeds up metabolism, and results in a growth-promoting or anabolic state.

However, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims (13, 14).

Low-calorie diets may promote rapid short-term weight loss, but they are not effective for long-term weight loss.

When you eat a very low calorie diet, your body adapts by increasing hunger hormones and slowing down energy expenditure, making it very difficult to lose weight. That’s why nutrition experts recommend a small calorie deficit versus extreme calorie restriction (17).

Conclusion

Some people claim that the hCG diet helps prevent muscle loss and slow metabolism when strictly restricting calories. However, no evidence supports these claims.

HCG Diet Rules

The HCG Diet is a diet that is very low in fat and calories.

It is usually divided into three stages:

1. Loading phase. Start taking hCG and eat a lot of fatty and high-calorie foods for 2 days.
2. Slimming phase. Continue taking hCG and consume only 500 calories per day for 3-6 weeks.
3. Maintenance phase. Stop taking hCG. Gradually increase your food intake, but avoid sugar and starches for 3 weeks.

While people seeking minimal weight loss may spend 3 weeks in the middle phase, those seeking significant weight loss may be advised to follow the diet for 6 weeks and even repeat all phases of the cycle several times.

During the weight loss phase, you are only allowed to eat twice a day, usually lunch and dinner.

HCG meal plans usually suggest that each meal should contain:

• one serving of lean protein
• vegetable a list of permitted products for selection in certain quantities.

  Butter, vegetable oils and sugar should be avoided, but you are advised to drink plenty of water. Mineral water, coffee and tea are also allowed.

  Conclusion

  The hCG diet is usually divided into three phases. During the weight loss phase, you take hCG, consuming only 500 calories per day.

  Fraudulent products on the market

  Most hCG products on the market today are labeled as homeopathic. In general, homeopathy involves the use of highly diluted potent substances.

  Over-the-counter (OTC) homeopathic products do not contain true hCG. Real HCG in the form of injections is administered as a fertility drug or hormonal treatment. It is only available with a doctor’s prescription (2).

  Only injections can increase the level of hCG in the blood, not homeopathic remedies sold on the Internet.

  Conclusion

  Most hCG products available online are labeled homeopathic and do not contain real hCG.

  Safety and side effects

  HCG has not been approved by the FDA for weight loss.

  In contrast, the FDA has questioned the safety of the hCG diet as well as over-the-counter hCG products. These products are unregulated and contain unknown ingredients. Therefore, they should be avoided (1, 2).

  There are also a number of side effects associated with the hCG diet, such as:

  • headaches
  • depression
  • fatigue

  yourself unhappy.

  In one 2014 case study, a 64-year-old woman was on an hCG diet when blood clots formed in her leg and lungs. It was found that the diet likely caused blood clots and other side effects.14).

  Conclusion

  Official agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) question the safety of hCG products and numerous side effects have been reported.

  Bottom line

  The HCG Diet limits your calorie intake to around 500 calories per day for several weeks, making it an extreme weight loss diet.

  Any diet this low in calories will make you lose weight.

  However, numerous studies have shown that the hormone hCG does not affect weight loss and does not reduce appetite.

  If you are serious about losing weight and keeping it off, there are many effective methods that are much smarter and safer than the hCG diet.

  Talk to your doctor, dietitian or nutritionist to determine which method may be right for you.

  What is the hCG diet plan?

  The hCG diet requires dangerously low daily calories in addition to the intake of hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), a hormone produced by women during pregnancy. While it’s true that 500 calories a day will lead to temporary weight loss, it’s unclear if hCG actually has anything to do with it.

  HCG Diet Basics

  Dieters who follow this diet significantly reduce daily calories. Depending on the diet option, dieters will consume 500, 800, or 1200 calories per day, which is generally not enough for adults to function normally. In addition to reduced calories, dieters take hCG as a tablet or injection; injections are available only to medical professionals. Dieters are given a specific menu for each day of the diet, which lasts up to six weeks with different phases.

  • Phase 1: The loading phase of the diet requires a higher intake of protein and fat. Some people call this the “overeating phase” as it is the last opportunity in the diet to eat a lot of food. At this stage, dieters start taking hCG.
  • Phase 2: The very low calorie phase of the hCG diet is the start of calorie restriction. Recipes suitable for the hCG diet at this stage of the diet, which lasts about a month (terms may vary depending on the diet option.
  • Phase 3: The Diet Stabilization Phase begins three days after the dieter’s last intake of hCG. Dieters slowly regain their calorie intake at this stage, but follow a specific method based on their plan to do so.
  • 1200 calorie diet
  • Simple and Healthy Diet Plan
  • Facts about low fat diet plans

  The Origins of the HCG Diet

  There are currently dozens of hCG diet options based on the original plan outlined in Dr. Simeon’s manuscript, Pounds and Inches: A New Approach to Obesity. Modified versions of the plan include an organic and vegan diet with hCG, while newer designs of oral hCG drops are marketed as a homeopathic diet plan. In addition, there are diet pills and hCG creams. In general, injections are becoming a rare method of administering hCG, although many clinics claiming medical care still offer injections.

  Pounds and inches: a new approach to obesity

  Diet Options

  Nearly 50 years after Dr. Simeon’s controversial diet plan was theorized, Kevin Trudeau released a book published in 2007: The Weight Loss Cure; a modified version of the diet that follows much of Dr. Simeon’s original protocol. Kevin Trudeau’s Modified Plan consists of an additional detox phase before starting hCG hormones, as well as modern protocols such as an organic diet, supplements, and an expanded list of acceptable foods for planning hCG.

  Does it work?

  The low calorie content of this diet encourages the body to lose weight, but studies show that hCG does not help speed up weight loss, contrary to claims that it is “How to trick your metabolism into burning fat.