The human chorionic gonadotropin, or HCG, diet is a weight-loss regimen that combines the use of HCG hormonal supplements with a carefully controlled menu. The HCG diet is based on the published discoveries and protocols of Dr. A.T.W Simeons and can be found in the book “Pounds and Inches.” The HCG diet is a challenging diet that requires a lot of discipline and patience. Success with the HCG diet will be determined by your ability to carefully follow the instructions of the diet.
HCG Diet Overview
The HCG diet is made up of three phases: loading, maintenance and stabilization phases. During the first and second phases, your diet is combined with 10 to 15 HCG drops, which should be taken three times a day. HCG is a hormone produced during pregnancy, according to Mayoclinic.com.
The loading phase is the first stage of the HCG diet and lasts for two days. During this period, you are encouraged to eat between 1,500 and 2,000 calories. The maintenance phase is the second stage and lasts for 21 to 40 days. Dieters are restricted to a 500-calorie diet for the duration. The stabilization phase is the final stage of the diet and lasts for 21 days. Dieters are allowed more flexibility in their diet with the exception of meals containing starch and sugar. Men are allowed 1,000 calories, while women are allowed 800 calories.
Calorie Challenges
During some of the phases of the HCG diet, people are required to restrict their daily calorie intake to as low as 500 calories. This involves drinking tea or coffee for breakfast and limiting yourself to only one serving of fruit, among other things. Many dieters find it difficult to meet these requirements and quit long before the phase is completed.
Limited Food Options
Other than the first phase, which lasts for 48 hours, dieters are expected to abstain from most foods, including those containing sugar and starch, until the completion of the diet. During the second the phase of the diet, you are presented with only a handful of food options. This can prove difficult, especially if these are foods you don't like.
Extended Duration
The HCG diet lasts for 45 to 60 days. For many people, this is too long to stay committed to a diet that requires their eating less than their body needs. The second phase, sometimes known as the very low calorie diet, is especially challenging. Dieters are expected to consume only 500 calories for 21 to 40 days.
Safety Considerations
Jennifer K. Nelson, a nutritionist with the Mayo Clinic, confirms that people who follow a calorie-restricted diet are likely to lose weight. However, the severe restriction of the HCG diet can also lead to a number of potential side effects, the most prominent being fatigue, dizziness, headaches and gallstones. Before you begin the diet, meet with your doctor to determine whether you are a qualified candidate.
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