The doctor-supervised, low-calorie diet known as the hCG diet can cause stomach issues in some people. Generally, these symptoms are temporary and subside within the first two weeks as long as the diet protocol is strictly followed. The diet involves weekly doctor visits, so you have ample time to discuss any concerns with your physician. The most common causes of stomach cramps, however, are easily remedied at home.
Increased Fiber
The hCG diet involves eating two servings of fruit and up to 10 servings of vegetables per day. Such a large amount of produce can cause stomach cramps by dramatically increasing your fiber consumption, especially if your previous diet was low in fiber. Usually, fiber consumption is increased gradually to allow your body to adjust, avoiding cramping issues, but the hCG diet requires you to stick closely to the prescribed meals from day one. It is not unusual for cramping to result, especially if you include cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cabbage in your meals.
Constipation
Phase two of the hCG diet involves a very low calorie diet of only 500 to 800 calories per day -- this is one of the reasons the diet must be supervised by a doctor, and it may also be the reason behind your stomach cramps. Even though you may not feel hungry, you are taking in a much smaller volume of food than you are used to, and the food you are eating is very high-quality nutritionally, so your body is able to use more of it. That means that there is less waste left over, so there is less bulk to form a stool. Your bowel movements will likely become less frequent and constipation is not uncommon.
Dehydration
During the hCG diet, you are instructed to drink at least a gallon of water per day, not including any coffee or tea you may drink. It's always important to drink enough water, but it's even more important during your diet. Not only does the water keep you hydrated and your digestive tract lubricated, but it also works with the fiber you eat to encourage bowel movements. Fiber absorbs water, adding bulk to the stool. This is especially important when you are eating small quantities of food, otherwise, constipation is likely. Without adequate water intake, the fiber will just sit in your digestive tract, where it may cause discomfort.
Treatment
The creator of the hCG diet, Dr. A.T.W. Simeons, advises that you avoid laxatives except in extreme cases of constipation -- your doctor will tell you when it's appropriate. Be very careful to drink enough water, especially if you drink coffee, which has a diuretic effect. Your body will get used to the fiber shortly, and you may use an over-the-counter gas preventative with your first bite of vegetables at every meal in the meantime. Be sure to get about 30 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise daily -- nothing too intense, because your caloric intake is low -- to help keep your bowels running smoothly. If your stomach cramps persist, consult your doctor.
References
- "Pounds and Inches"; Dr. A.T.W. Simeons; 1971
- MayoClinic.com; Dietary Fiber: Essential for a Healthy Diet; Nov. 19, 2009
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Constipation
- American Cancer Society: Broccoli
