Frequently Asked Questions

What is HCG and how does it work?

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) is a hormone naturally produced in pregnant women. HCG has many functions, and is used medically to treat a variety of conditions. HCG is the pregnancy hormone but, during pregnancy, HCG levels double every two days. The HCG hormone allows the body to mobilize fat in order to use it as energy for both the mother and fetus. Therefore, HCG acts as a "fail-safe" mechanism when energy is needed immediately. For weight loss, we use only a very small amount of HCG to capitalize on this same fail-safe mechanism. Using HCG in this way does not mimic pregnancy; in fact, it can be safely used by both men and women.

Is HCG safe?

HCG is extremely safe. All women experience very high levels during the nine months of pregnancy with no adverse side effects. The small amount of HCG that we use for weight loss has absolutely NO side effects.

The HCG diet is very low calorie, will I get hungry?

Because HCG mobilizes fat, making it available for the body as an energy source, HCG naturally reduces appetite. So, even though you are taking in fewer calories, your body can access the energy that you have stored in fat cells. After about two days, many patients notice a significant decrease in their appetite. Overall, most people have plenty of energy and feel good while on the HCG program.

Will HCG interfere with any medications I am currently taking?

HCG does not interfere with ANY medications, including birth control pills or Depo-Provera, so there are NO side effects.

If HCG works so well for weight loss, why don't pregnant women lose weight?

HCG works to mobilize fat for utilization in the body only when there is a significant decrease in calories and fat. A low calorie state must exist for HCG to break fat down.

How much weight can I expect to lose on the program?

On average, our patients lose around 18 - 25 pounds or more during the 6-week program.

Wouldn't I lose the same amount of weight eating a very low calorie diet without HCG?

You can lose weight by simply eating fewer calories and fat. However, because the body stores fat during times of deprivation, you will most likely lose muscle and bone before losing fat. A low calorie diet without HCG causes cellular metabolism to slow down so, that in the long run, it may make gaining weight easier, as well as decreasing bone density and muscle mass. By using HCG with a low calorie diet, extra fat is mobilized for energy. The rest of the fat is eliminated. By implementing the HCG diet, you benefit by preferentially getting rid of excess fat with only minimally affecting your bone and muscle.

Will my metabolism slow down if I'm on a very low calorie diet?

Yes, normally when we cut back on calories and fat, our bodies store fat, and our metabolism slows down. When a very low-calorie diet is used in conjunction with the HCG hormone, the body removes excess fat while maintaining your metabolic rate. This HCG fat-mobilization is a natural process, resulting in no ill-effects on your metabolism.

Will I experience any changes in my menstrual cycle while taking HCG?

Because the amount of HCG is so small, there are no changes to your menstrual cycle. Likewise, HCG will not affect your ability to become pregnant, nor will it increase your chances of getting pregnant.

Still Not Sure If HCG Is Right For You?