An hCG diet is a weight loss plan that combines a strict, 500 calorie a day diet with daily hCG injections. HCG stands for human chorionic gonadotropin, which is a hormone that is secreted by the placenta during pregnancy. Proponents of the diet say it is possible to lose up to 3 lbs per day, while maintaining muscle mass. The hCG diet offers a set list of foods you can choose from, and consume in specified amounts. Consult with your physician before beginning the hCG diet.
Tea and Coffee
Tea and coffee are allowed in any amount as part of the hCG diet. The rules are, you can't use any sugar, and only 1 tbsp. of milk every 24 hours. Saccharin or the herb stevia can be used to sweeten your coffee or tea.
Red Meat and Poultry
Red meat in the form of lean ground beef, cube or round steak and veal is permitted, as is chicken or turkey breast. You are restricted to about 100g of any one of the choices for lunch and 100g for dinner. All of the fat must be trimmed away,and no extra fat can be added during cooking. Boiling and grilling are the preferred cooking methods.
Eggs and Whites
The original hCG diet allowed an occasional substitution of eggs for the meat portion, but three whites must be added to one whole egg, according to the HCG Diet Info website. The eggs must be poached, boiled or raw.
Seafood and Fish
Various fish and seafood choices are available as part of the protein for lunches and dinners. Choose 3 1/2 oz. or 100g of tilapia, halibut, cod, flounder, haddock, shrimp, crab, lobster or sole.
Fruits and Vegetables
One piece of fruit and one vegetable are typically allowed with each lunch or dinner meal. Choices include spinach, tomato, celery, cabbage, asparagus, broccoli, cauliflower, cucumber, radish and onion for vegetables. Fruit choices include strawberries, apple, grapefruit and orange.
Bread and Grains
The only bread products permitted on the hCG diet are breadsticks and melba toast, which is a small, thin, dry, cracker-like toast. One breadstick or one melba toast are allowed with each meal.
Spices and Flavorings
A few different spices are allowed to add some flavor to your foods. You can add the juice of one lemon per day for any purpose. No oil or butter is permitted, but salt, pepper, garlic, mustard powder, vinegar, thyme, parsley and similar spices may be used.
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