The first thing that comes to many people’s minds when they hear about the rapid weight loss experienced by those who are on the HCG diet is often: “is the HCG diet a scam?” It’s certainly a valid question, as the weight loss reported by those who successfully complete the HCG diet protocol is anywhere from .5lbs – 2lbs a day. Most diets boast weight loss results far below those encountered on the HCG diet, and this can send up a red flag in the minds of wary would-be dieters.
The HCG diet protocol consists of three phases designed to elicit dramatic weight loss in very specific areas. The first phase lasts two days and is often referred to as the “loading phase” or “forced feeding phase.” During these two days, dieters take their dose of HCG via injections, drops or pills and eat as many high fat, high calorie foods as possible. The excess calories taken in during phase 1 of the HCG diet are stored in a special way by the body, and are slowly burned off (along with loads of long-stored fat in the belly, upper arms and thighs) during phase 2.
Phase 2 of the diet lasts anywhere from 23-40 days, depending on the protocol chosen by the dieter. During this period, a diet consisting of only 500 calories a day from a list of approved foods is followed to the letter. The HCG taken during this period stimulates the hypothalamus to release stores of fat into the blood stream to be used as energy. Without the HCG hormone performing this specific act, a 500 calorie per day diet would cause far less weight loss, and possibly lead to adverse health effects.
After phase 2 is completed, phase 3 begins. In phase 3, dieters cease taking the HCG hormone and gradually increase their diet back up to a decent level depending on the amount of calories they need in order to function each day. Those who choose to begin exercise during this period will need more calories, while dieters who do not will need to consume less.
As mentioned above, those who have completed the HCG diet protocol have reported dramatic weight loss. Their stories can easily be found on any of the HCG diet forums. If you’re worried that the HCG diet might be a scam, it may be a good idea to visit some of these HCG diet forums and get the scoop directly from those who have completed the diet. Not only should it put to rest any fears you may have as to the HCG diet’s efficacy, but you can get valuable tips and information to be used when you try the HCG diet for yourself.
If you require more information than the forums readily provide, there are also several HCG diet books that can help from a more technical standpoint. The first book on the subject Pounds & Inches by Dr. A.T.W. Simeons, the doctor who first noticed the correlation between HCG and weight loss is a great place to start. From there you can purchase other books that contain all sorts of helpful information, hints and tips on completing the HCG diet. Beware, though, that while the HCG diet itself is not a scam, some online retailers are. Make sure that if you choose to begin the HCG diet protocol, that you get your HCG from a reputable source. As always, it’s a good idea to consult a doctor before beginning any weight loss program.