There has been a lot of buzz in the media recently about HCG weight loss plans, especially among celebrity circles.
Before you dive into this type of diet or any diet plan involving outside sources such as hormones, though, it’s important to make sure it’s the right plan for you and your body. That’s why we’ve put this post together to guide you in the right direction, whether it’s for you or not.
Keep reading to learn more about the HCG Diet.
Table Of Contents
What is the HCG Weight Loss Diet and How Does it Work?
HCG stands for Human Chorionic Gonadotropin which is a hormone found in females during pregnancy. In nature, it works to assist the development of an embryo into a fetus. Many fertility doctors will use this hormone to help women with issues conceiving.
The diet promotes weight loss by reducing feelings of hunger and redistributing body fat.
Combined with a calorie-restrictive diet, HCG, a hormone supplement is thought to assist in weight loss by up to a pound per day. Although, scientific evidence is still forthcoming.
What Can You Eat on the HCG Diet?
You can obtain HCG weight loss kits that will help you maintain a healthy eating regimen or you can do your own grocery shopping. Most people on this diet eat only two meals per day at lunch and dinner.
Meals include bread, fruit, vegetables, and foods high in protein.
It is recommended to drink plenty of water while exercising this diet and avoid foods like nuts, oils, and sugars.
Is it Safe and Effective?
Many experts will try to deter you from participating in this diet as they claim it is not safe. Carefully note that the hormones are not FDA approved nor available for over the counter sales.
While many people that have used this diet will claim astounding results, many researchers believe the success to be related to the lower intake of calories rather than the hormone supplements. They claim that weight loss results are no greater in people that consume HCG in comparison to other diet methods.
HCG Diet Side Effects
Side effects of consuming an HCG diet can be diverse and dangerous. They include the following :
- irregular heartbeat
- mood swings
- malnutrition
- gallstones
- blood clots
- restlessness
- enlarged breasts in males
The Benefits and Risks of the HCG Diet
Because there can be side effects with HCG weight loss this does pose some risk. It is very important that you discuss this plan with your doctor and make sure any medical professionals are aware of your plan in any type of medical emergency.
There are also risks of complications in those that have been diagnosed with diabetes, kidney disease or heart disease.
The benefits, of course, include weight loss and increased energy.
We hope you found this post helpful and informative. Be sure to take a look around at our other posts if you enjoyed this one!
