HCG Weight Loss
How does the HCG Weight Loss Program Work?
The HCG protocol was originally discovered by A.T.W Simeons and was published in his book “Pounds and Inches.” Dr. Simeons helped hundreds of individuals successfully lose weight. Using HCG for weight loss is not a new technique, since “Pounds and Inches” was published over 50 years ago. However the HCG protocol is gaining in popularity as thousands of people are finding success with HCG where other diets have failed. The protocol works as follows:
- An individual takes 13-18 units of HCG daily via injections or as drops under the tongue.
- The first 3 days are “loading” days where you take your HCG and also eat as much as you can to prime your metabolism. High fat foods such as cream cheese, fish and butter are good to eat as more fat will help for the first few low calorie days.
- After 3 days of loading, the very low calorie day diet begins. Individuals consume 500 calories made up of very particular foods, not just any 500 calories will do.
- The protocol lasts for 28 to 40 days depending on the amount of weight loss desired.
- After the injections or drops end, the individual continues with the very low calorie diet for 3 days for the HCG to leave the system.
- After the protocol, foods are gradually introduced. The goal is to maintain your weight within 2 pounds to reset your weight “set point”.
HCG Weight Loss Side Effects
There are a few side effects associated with the HCG diet. While most of the side effects only occur during the initial portion of the diet, some individuals do experience side effects during the entire duration. Here is a list of the most common side effects along with some recommendations on how to combat them:
- Headache – For the first 3 days most individuals note withdrawal symptoms like headaches. Most headaches will subside after 3 days or so. Drinking the recommended 80+ ounces of water will also help reduce the duration and severity of the headaches.
- Fatigue – With a reduced calorie count, many people do experience some fatigue during the protocol. Increasing your B vitamins can help. Your water intake is also extremely important since your body is breaking down fat to support your energy needs. Water helps to process all the toxins released during the fat elimination process and can help with fatigue.
- Hunger – While most people do not experience tremendous hunger on the HCG diet since the hormone suppresses appetite, there are a few people who do become hungry. If you experience hunger, try changing up your meals. If you’re currently not eating breakfast, try having one of your apples in the morning along with oolong tea. For lunch, instead of just grilling chicken, consider making a chicken soup with diced chicken breast, chicken broth and add onions or celery as your vegetable. Soups really help combat hunger and also add to your overall water intake.
The HCG diet works for many people but it does take hard work and dedication to stick with a low calorie program for any length of time. The key to success is to find a period of time where you won’t be distracted. You won’t be able to eat out or go off the diet for the entire length of the program or you will be set back 3-7 days for one or two meals. With some advanced planning and the right mind set, the HCG diet may be a good option to consider.
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Filed under: Weight Loss Tips | Tagged with: hcg for weight loss, hcg pounds and inches, hcg program, hcg weight loss, hcg weight loss side effects