The HCG Diet is a plan for losing weight offering a hormone which will reset the metabolism while on low-calorie intake. The very HCG hormone is actually available only through prescription, but different providers may offer a supplement version of it.
HCG means human chorionic gonadotropin. The human embryo produces this hormone during pregnancy to protect the fetus. Often it happens that different companies make a synthetic or animal version of it.
It’s forbidden by some sport organizations since it was used for regulation of testosterone function.
An endocrinologist Albert T.W Simeons created this diet. He believed that combination of this hormone with the 500 calorie diet would lead to weight loss.
Physicians Reaction
The American Society of Bariatric Physicians said that there is no sufficient evidence supporting the statements that HCG is changing the distribution of fat and helping the reduction of fat.
They also said that there is no scientific proof that HCG is successful in treating obesity.
FDA Reaction
In an open letter to customers, FDA stated that we should stay away from “homeopathic” HCG products for losing weight.
Also, they said that consuming only 500 calories per day is hazardous to one’s health and that the person may not be getting enough of essential vitamins and minerals.
What Says Web MD
Web MD says that it’s not possible to supply your nutritional demands by 500 calorie intake per day, and it can be dangerous.
Mayo Clinic Speaks
Mayo Clinic says that side effects have been reported while on HCG dieting some of which are:
- Irritability
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Restlessness
…and that there are “safer ways to lose weight.”
What the Users Say
Since the diet was banned in 2011, there are few feedbacks from the users saying they felt terrible, with headaches every day, nausea, dizziness… Also, one user said he would not recommend the diet to anyone.
Blood pressure was raised, there were leg cramps and of course being hungry the whole day.
Other symptoms which these people experienced are:
- Fatigue
- Migraines
- Flushed skin
- Mood swings
- Restlessness
- Stomach pain
… and much more.
Some said they did lose weight, but they put on the same weight again when going back to their normal diet.
So…
If we are limiting our calorie intake to 500 calories per day, we must take all the necessary supplement for our bodies to function properly. BUT, it should only be done under the supervision of a doctor.
You might lose weight, but in a long run, your body will suffer.
There are many false promises that seller of HCG gives such as losing up to two pounds per day (one kilogram) or having more energy. There’s no scientific proof for these and similar statements.
Choose the Safe Way
Talk to your doctor about the healthy ways to lose weight permanently. He will advise you concerning all the steps you should make, including healthy eating habits and physical activity.
If you’re considering some of the non-surgical procedures to lose weight or reduce fat, [primary_practice] can help! We offer a variety of treatments. Contact us.
