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I've had too many questions as of late about the HCG diet to not address it. So I'll hit the high points of what HCG is, what the claims are and how it's supposed to work, its efficacy, associated risks, and some closing thoughts. Now as much as I'm not a fan of fad diets and things like this I'm certain people will still choose to try it and hopefully they can make a more informed decision.
HCG What Is It?
HCG is a hormone found in women during pregnancy. It is most prominent during the early stages of pregnancy when a women may not know she is pregnant. It was actually found by a physician in the 50's and much of the research I've found on it was done in the 70's.
What Is The Program? How Does It Work?
The program consists of weekly injections of the hormone accompanied by a 500 calorie diet for a period of approximately 12 weeks. You are expected to lose about a pound a day and are advised not to exercise since calories are so restricted.
The hormones function in the body during the early stages of pregnancy and allows the body to release fat for the baby in the event that the mother is unaware of pregnancy and not eating enough.
Does It Work?
From the research I've found supplementing a 500 calorie diet with the HCG injections is no more effective than a 500 calorie diet in and of itself. The only thing it seems to do is help reduce hunger pangs. So in short no it is not a miracle cure to lose weight.
Risks.
Their is an increased risk of pregnancy, blood clots, headaches, restlessness and depression.
Closing Thoughts.
When losing weight the most important thing is to change behaviors and the way you view food. The HCG diet like a lot of other diet programs doesn't address the real issues one needs to focus on in order to lose weight and maintain that weight loss. Another problem that I find with this particular program is when you go on a very low calorie diet like the one accompanying the HCG injections your body will at some point be burning muscle tissue for energy. This decrease in lean muscle tissue will ultimately limit your bodies ability to burn calories. It comes as no surprise that the best option is to adopt to a lifestyle of healthy eating and exercise. Remember eat to live not live to eat!
