The hCG diet combines a risky low-calorie diet with the use of a hormone typically used for fertility treatments, claiming that it can help you lose 1 to 3 lbs. per day. According to the Food and Drug Administration, there is no scientific evidence that his unapproved diet aids in weight loss, yet people are still experimenting with the inclusion of hCG to try to meet their weight-loss goals.
About
HCG, human chorionic gonadotropin, is a hormone found in both genders, but most specifically associated with pregnant women, because it is produced by the cells that form the placenta. HCG signals the hypothalamus, an area of the brain connected to metabolism, to mobilize fat stores. In pregnant women, this function helps deliver nutrients to the placenta. In others, the gland moderates metabolic rate as well as thyroid, adrenals and fat storage. The combination of hCG and diet was explored originally by British physician Dr. A.T.W. Simeons.
Diet
The hCG diet pairs daily hCG injections with an extremely low caloric intake of 500 calories per day. Breakfast consists of tea or coffee with no sugar and no more than 1 tbsp. of milk per day. Lunch and dinner consists of 100 grams of a variety of meat choices, one vegetable from a small list of options, a breadstick and a piece of fruit. The diet protocol also limits the use of personal care products, such as lipsticks, powder, certain lotions and hair products. According to Dr. Simeons, 125 iu of hCG is administered daily, except during female menstruation. The injections should not last longer than 40 days.
FDA Prohibition
HCG has not been approved by the FDA as a weight-loss aid. It is primarily used as a fertility treatment and for issues regarding the male reproductive system. In fact, the FDA requires all advertising and marketing of hCG to come with the following claim: "HCG has not been demonstrated to be effective adjunctive therapy in the treatment of obesity. There is no substantial evidence that it 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-restricted diets."
Side Effects
When using hCG for weight loss, common side effects include headaches, mood swings, depression, blood clots, confusion and dizziness. Women may develop Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome, causing additional side effects. The hormone was said to decrease side effects in steroid users and has since been banned by Major League Baseball because of this.
Warning
Using a drug not approved by the FDA and limiting your caloric intake far below what is recommended for daily consumption can be considered dangerous. Speak to your physician to determine if the hCG diet is right for your body.
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