HCG Diet

jknops2

Looking at posts here, some peple are using this. See this article:

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/03/08/nyregion/08hcg.html?pagewanted=1

Note:

"But the F.D.A. has also reiterated a warning, first issued in the mid-1970s, that is required on hCG packaging: It has not been shown to increase weight loss, to cause a more “attractive” distribution of fat or to “decrease hunger and discomfort” from low-calorie diets.

"the hormone carried risks of blood clots, depression, headaches and breast tenderness or enlargement."

"aside from the issue of side effects, the use of hCG as a diet tool was “manipulating people to give them the sense that they’re receiving something that’s powerful and potent and effective, and in fact they’re receiving something that’s nothing better than a placebo.”

"Doctors who prescribe hCG for dieting say that experience is in their favor, even if the research is not." YES, BUT THEY MAKE "upward of $1,000 a month for a consultation, a supply of the hormone and the syringes needed to deliver it."

???? I DON'T GET It DOCTORS "“manipulating people to give them the sense that they’re receiving something that’s powerful and potent and effective, and in fact they’re receiving something that’s nothing better than a placebo.” SO YES I CAN SEE THE DOCTORS POINT OF VIEW $$$, BUT IT IS NOT ETHICAL, TO SAY THE LEAST WITH THE HEALTH RISKS INVOLVED.

BEING ON " a diet that some say mimics anorexia" WITH 500 CALORIES A DAY, YES, ANYONE WILL LOOSE WEIGHT. THEN WHY DO PEOPLE SEEM TO RESPONDS TO THIS DIET: "But several studies concluded that the ritual of the daily injection and the instant gratification of quick weight loss helped motivate people to stay on the diet." WELL YOU MIGHT TRY STICKING A FORK IN YOUR BELLY, COMBINED WITH A DIET. HEROINE ADDICTS DO THIS TO GET A BUSS. SAME PAIN EFFECT.

Capitals are my words, quotations are from the article and sorry for the shouting.

ErrataCorrige

I know 5 women who have tried HCG. Two of them lost around thrity pounds, two of them lost around ten pounds, one of them quit on the second day because she just couldn't eat 500 cals.

All five of them gained the weight back within four months of being off the diet. ALL five of them were total *****es to be around! None of them looked healthy or acted happy.

glol4729

I know a few people who have done this.. It not only changed them as a person in a social environment, but they put on twice the amount of weight after the quitting the HCG.

melizerd

My best friend started it just before I started this journey. She lost about 40lbs, and has gained it all back. She hates that I've kept my weight off and continue to lose weight AND tone up more than she has. And yet she's going to do it again I wish I could talk her out of it.

I just can't see how that would be good for your body, and it must be hard on your heart to do all that yo-yoing.

Scrappy3232

I did the HCG diet back in Sept 09. I did the shots along with the cookie diet. I lost 18 lbs. I felt great and looked great. I promised myself i would eat better and excercise. I ate better but no exercise and then started gaining the weight back on. I'm currently 4 lbs away from being back to my original weight before HCG.

The diet works only because it is a starvation diet.. anyone will lose weight eating only 500 calories. I am going back to the bootcamp classes i used to take and the proper eating and losing the weight the proper way and the cheaper way. I did it before and lost 20 lbs and had gaind muscle tone, something the hcg diet will not do.

just wanted to throw in my story.

Black_Swan

I also think this works only because of 500 cals a day. Its really not a long term solution... but some people just need to learn on their own... its a learning curve, bla bla:D Good luck to everyone trying it...

wriglucy

Thank you for posting this! Everyone gets mad when we tell them "no legit scientific studies in the US support the hormone for weight loss." Yes...you will lose weight on this diet...who wouldn't at only 500 calories a day! I have some more links too...about studies and registered dieitians talking about it...I'll compile them and post it later.

This is just a fad diet...in my opinion. It's not one that can be sustained, and the long term results vary from person to person. I think the best way to lose weight and keep it off, is the slow and steady healthy diet, that can be maintained for the rest of someone's life.

wriglucy

Here's an article from a registered dietitian.
http://www.webmd.com/diet/features/truth-about-hcg-for-weight-loss

Here's an article by an MD, and he cites and explains about 4 studies against it.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/david-katz-md/hcg-diet-for-weight-loss_b_809660.html

I found this one too, I can't figure out how to get the whole article, but it's by a department of Medical Physiology and Biochemistry, of the University of Stellenbosch, Parowvallei. This is the abstract posted by U.S. National Library of Medicine, but I think, for this one at least, we would need to see the rest of the study to look at the variables and the methodology, this is just a summary.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2405506

Hope these help some! And one thing I think a lot of people need to remember, is that personal experience if not scientific evidence! (unless you're participating in an experiment of course

And...I think this diet is so controversial because some people see it posted on here, and personally...I don't think it's safe. I know they have you make sure you get enough supplements and nutrients, but...when I was in HS, I developed an eating disorder...and this "diet" reminds me SOOO much of that! (without the drops or shots of course.)

kwardklinck

I think it's another scam. I think it's really sad that so much money is made on people who're desperate to take off weight quickly. I want to know how many people gain the weight back after spending all that money on HCG.

ambrosij

There is a whole different side to this with several double blind studies proving that it is in fact effective. Also I trust the FDA and their decisions about as much as I trust any other government agency. Just because the FDA has issued a statement doesnt meant these doctors are wrong, also the HCG can be taken sublingually, and since 1959 when this first made its way to the United States there has been NO report of side effects from the standard weight loss dosage...also those side effects you mention are pretty insignificant when you think of some of the side effects from other medication most of the US is now taking from quack psychiatrists, which by the way is a "medical science" that is not grounded in any type of significant research...but thats another story. So yes HCG is both effective, the real deal, and if it could be a money maker for the big drug companies, you bet it would be prescribed for weight loss.

Looking at posts here, some peple are using this. See this article:

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/03/08/nyregion/08hcg.html?pagewanted=1

Note:

"But the F.D.A. has also reiterated a warning, first issued in the mid-1970s, that is required on hCG packaging: It has not been shown to increase weight loss, to cause a more “attractive” distribution of fat or to “decrease hunger and discomfort” from low-calorie diets.

"the hormone carried risks of blood clots, depression, headaches and breast tenderness or enlargement."

"aside from the issue of side effects, the use of hCG as a diet tool was “manipulating people to give them the sense that they’re receiving something that’s powerful and potent and effective, and in fact they’re receiving something that’s nothing better than a placebo.”

"Doctors who prescribe hCG for dieting say that experience is in their favor, even if the research is not." YES, BUT THEY MAKE "upward of $1,000 a month for a consultation, a supply of the hormone and the syringes needed to deliver it."

???? I DON'T GET It DOCTORS "“manipulating people to give them the sense that they’re receiving something that’s powerful and potent and effective, and in fact they’re receiving something that’s nothing better than a placebo.” SO YES I CAN SEE THE DOCTORS POINT OF VIEW $$$, BUT IT IS NOT ETHICAL, TO SAY THE LEAST WITH THE HEALTH RISKS INVOLVED.

BEING ON " a diet that some say mimics anorexia" WITH 500 CALORIES A DAY, YES, ANYONE WILL LOOSE WEIGHT. THEN WHY DO PEOPLE SEEM TO RESPONDS TO THIS DIET: "But several studies concluded that the ritual of the daily injection and the instant gratification of quick weight loss helped motivate people to stay on the diet." WELL YOU MIGHT TRY STICKING A FORK IN YOUR BELLY, COMBINED WITH A DIET. HEROINE ADDICTS DO THIS TO GET A BUSS. SAME PAIN EFFECT.

Capitals are my words, quotations are from the article and sorry for the shouting.

ambrosij

1) I wonder what they were using as HCG, as most drops sold over the counter have zero HCG in them
2) I have to wonder if ANY diet or weight loss method, to include exercise and eating healthy would work for these Women if they simply refused to change their overall lifestyle
3) I have to wonder if they actually completed the diet to protocol
4) This is another second hand story of someone who knew someone or had a friend that was unsuccesful...yet there are well over 10,000 posts of individuals that have had success, loss only 2-4% of their total weight in muscle mass (most nutritionist recommended diets result in +10% loss of muscle mass).

I know 5 women who have tried HCG. Two of them lost around thrity pounds, two of them lost around ten pounds, one of them quit on the second day because she just couldn't eat 500 cals.

All five of them gained the weight back within four months of being off the diet. ALL five of them were total *****es to be around! None of them looked healthy or acted happy.

ambrosij

Another second hand story, I know plenty of people who have done this that have lost 100+ pounds and kept it off for over three years now....and you can read those peoples stories...or watch them, on myfitnesspal, HCGforums.com, and even youtube.

I know a few people who have done this.. It not only changed them as a person in a social environment, but they put on twice the amount of weight after the quitting the HCG.

ambrosij

Your friend could have done weight watchers, phentermine, or good old diet and exercise and if she refuses to change her lifestyle then she will always gain it back. The protocol is built to embrace healthy moderate eating, it is not simply a lose the weight, do the protocol and then go back to life as normal, there is a graduated plan that you are supposed to stick to after you complete a round of HCG, when done properly most people have had an incredible amount of success.

My best friend started it just before I started this journey. She lost about 40lbs, and has gained it all back. She hates that I've kept my weight off and continue to lose weight AND tone up more than she has. And yet she's going to do it again I wish I could talk her out of it.

I just can't see how that would be good for your body, and it must be hard on your heart to do all that yo-yoing.

wriglucy

Here's a thought I have...take it or leave it. But I said that this 'diet' reminds me of my eating disorder I developed in HS. So, I found this on: http://www.webmd.com/mental-health/anorexia-nervosa/anorexia-nervosa-what-happens


"Anorexia Nervosa - What Happens
Anorexia nervosa almost always begins with a plan to follow a strict weight-loss diet. Limiting foods then leads to malnutrition and unhealthy weight loss. As malnutrition sets in, the brain and metabolism change. This limits the appetite, how the body can use food, and the person's ability to think clearly and make good decisions.

After anorexia starts, it is very difficult for the person to return to normal eating without help. When left untreated, anorexia can continue for a lifetime. This leads to long-term malnutrition or starvation-and sometimes death.

If you struggle with anxiety, tend to finish the things you start, and strive for perfection, you may be at risk for crossing the line from dieting to anorexia.4, 2 For some people, anorexic eating habits can meet a need for personal control and self-esteem. Some teens may fall into this pattern as a way to cope with big changes and challenges.

Early treatment of anorexia offers the best chance of recovery. The more irrational eating habits that a person develops, the harder it is to return to a healthy outlook on nutrition. Because people who have anorexia tend to strongly deny that they have a problem and are secretive about their eating, family members or loved ones usually seek help for them on their behalf."


Paragraph 3 was the one that made me think mostly of this "diet." Also, I know the malnutrition may not kick in for awhile, but that's why to me, paragraph 3 is the red flag paragraph. I also know that there hasn't been research that link hcg diet to anorexia, so this is just my observation.

When I lost 20 pounds in a month, and was a perfectionist and tried to be perfect, losing weight was like a drug. It was a high for me not to eat over 500 calories and then weigh myself the next day. It's scary how it can take over your life.

DISCLAIMER: Like I said....this is JUST my opinion and some stuff I've noticed. Please don't jump down my throat for MY own observations. I know there is no scientific data to back this up, that's why I'm saying it as my own observation.

ambrosij

Well at least this is a primary source, but what you are saying is that you did HCG, but failed to follow protocol...pretty sure the cookie diet is nowhere on the protocol. It is a starvation diet, a starvation diet in terms of food being put in your and that is possible with minimal muscle loss or hunger BECAUSE of the HCG, which releases calories into your blood stream from fat stores. How long did it take you to put the weight back on? Two years of not exercising...not bad.

I did the HCG diet back in Sept 09. I did the shots along with the cookie diet. I lost 18 lbs. I felt great and looked great. I promised myself i would eat better and excercise. I ate better but no exercise and then started gaining the weight back on. I'm currently 4 lbs away from being back to my original weight before HCG.

The diet works only because it is a starvation diet.. anyone will lose weight eating only 500 calories. I am going back to the bootcamp classes i used to take and the proper eating and losing the weight the proper way and the cheaper way. I did it before and lost 20 lbs and had gaind muscle tone, something the hcg diet will not do.

just wanted to throw in my story.

ambrosij

You may "think" that but you would be wrong. There is as much evidence that it works as there is that it doesnt, your right the 10s of thousands of people who have had tons of success need to learn on their own.

I also think this works only because of 500 cals a day. Its really not a long term solution... but some people just need to learn on their own... its a learning curve, bla bla:D Good luck to everyone trying it...

ambrosij

A fad diet that has apparently lasted 50+ years.

Thank you for posting this! Everyone gets mad when we tell them "no legit scientific studies in the US support the hormone for weight loss." Yes...you will lose weight on this diet...who wouldn't at only 500 calories a day! I have some more links too...about studies and registered dieitians talking about it...I'll compile them and post it later.

This is just a fad diet...in my opinion. It's not one that can be sustained, and the long term results vary from person to person. I think the best way to lose weight and keep it off, is the slow and steady healthy diet, that can be maintained for the rest of someone's life.

ambrosij

Yes and then the naysayers get mad when you provide them with TWO DOUBLE BLIND studies that say it DOES work...even you agreed that there is as much evidence against as for and there needs to be new testing.

Thank you for posting this! Everyone gets mad when we tell them "no legit scientific studies in the US support the hormone for weight loss." Yes...you will lose weight on this diet...who wouldn't at only 500 calories a day! I have some more links too...about studies and registered dieitians talking about it...I'll compile them and post it later.

This is just a fad diet...in my opinion. It's not one that can be sustained, and the long term results vary from person to person. I think the best way to lose weight and keep it off, is the slow and steady healthy diet, that can be maintained for the rest of someone's life.

ambrosij

Yes, as I am sure those people who have lost over 100 pounds think it is a scam as well.

I think it's another scam. I think it's really sad that so much money is made on people who're desperate to take off weight quickly. I want to know how many people gain the weight back after spending all that money on HCG.

wriglucy

Yes and then the naysayers get mad when you provide them with TWO DOUBLE BLIND studies that say it DOES work...even you agreed that there is as much evidence against as for and there needs to be new testing.

Thank you for posting this! Everyone gets mad when we tell them "no legit scientific studies in the US support the hormone for weight loss." Yes...you will lose weight on this diet...who wouldn't at only 500 calories a day! I have some more links too...about studies and registered dieitians talking about it...I'll compile them and post it later.

This is just a fad diet...in my opinion. It's not one that can be sustained, and the long term results vary from person to person. I think the best way to lose weight and keep it off, is the slow and steady healthy diet, that can be maintained for the rest of someone's life.

2 studies, compared to I think it was 8? or 4? Only 2...NO study can be generalized to the whole public, or verified to be accurate if there are only 2 studies! ALL studies need replications to yield the same results over and over again, to provide evidence of them being true, and to reject the null hypothese. 2 studies, is not enough to show validity. Espcially when one that you're talking about was done by a person closely associated with hcg.

Just a thought.

wriglucy

Ok...I don't know if this site is 100% what I'm trying to find. But...it does say :

"SCIENTIFIC PRINCIPLE 5: REPLICATE AND GENERALIZE ACROSS STUDIES.

Replication means that a researcher who uses the same study method in the same situations or contexts as another researcher can make the same observations and obtain the same results. (Alternatively, the same researcher can obtain the same results on two different occasions.) Generalization refers to how much the results can be replicated in different contexts and with different populations. When the results of a study can be replicated and generalized, the results can be trusted more than results from studies without these characteristics. Usually, many research studies are needed to produce a body of knowledge that provides this information. "

from http://ecs.org/html/educationIssues/Research/primer/appendixB.asp

Notice the last 2 sentences.

wriglucy

I think there are about 6 studies here against it. I haven't looked at the whole studies myself, I don't have time to do that right now.

From http://www.webmd.com/diet/features/truth-about-hcg-for-weight-loss
"In 1995, the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology published an analysis of research showing no benefit of hCG in promoting weight loss. A December 2009 position paper of the American Society of Bariatric Physicians concluded they did not recommend hCG as a weight loss aid.

Quack Watch.org director Stephen Barrett, MD tells WebMD that "scientific studies have demonstrated that hCG injections do not cause weight loss.”

He describes the protocol as extreme, nearly impossible to adhere to, and senseless, especially because the clinical trials have demonstrated that hCG is ineffective as a weight loss aid.

Since 1975, the FDA has said that hCG is not a weight loss drug. Keep in mind that the FDA doesn't regulate web sites selling hCG and doesn't oversee whether the hCG product you order is safe, free of contaminants, and in the correct concentration."

From http://www.huffingtonpost.com/david-katz-md/hcg-diet-for-weight-loss_b_809660.html

S Afr Med J. 1990 Feb 17;77(4):185-9.

Human chorionic gonadotrophin and weight loss. A double-blind, placebo-controlled

trial. Bosch B, Venter I, Stewart RI, Bertram SR.

Department of Medical Physiology and Biochemistry, University of Stellenbosch,

Parowvallei, CP.

Low-dose human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) combined with a severe diet remains

a popular treatment for obesity, despite equivocal evidence of its effectiveness.

In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study, the effects of HCG on weight loss

were compared with placebo injections. Forty obese women (body mass index greater

than 30 kg/m2) were placed on the same diet supplying 5,000 kJ per day and

received daily intramuscular injections of saline or HCG, 6 days a week for 6

weeks. A psychological profile, hunger level, body circumferences, a fasting

blood sample and food records were obtained at the start and end of the study,

while body weight was measured weekly. Subjects receiving HCG injections showed

no advantages over those on placebo in respect to any of the variables recorded.

Furthermore, weight loss on our diet was similar to that on severely restricted

intake. We conclude that there is no rationale for the use of HCG injections in

the treatment of obesity.

PMID: 2405506 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


2. Am J Clin Nutr. 1976 Sep;29(9):940-8.

Ineffectiveness of human chorionic gonadotropin in weight reduction: a

double-blind study. Stein MR, Julis RE, Peck CC, Hinshaw W, Sawicki JE, Deller JJ Jr.

Our investigation was designed to retest the hypothesis of the efficacy of human

chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) on weight reduction in obese women in a clinic

setting. We sought to duplicate the Asher-Harper study (1973) which had found

that the combination of 500 cal diet and HCG had a statistically significant

benefit over the diet and placebo combination as evidenced by greater weight loss

and decrease in hunger. Fifty-one women between the ages of 18 and 60

participated in our 32-day prospective, randomized, double-blind comparison of

HCG versus placebo. Each patient was given the same diet (the one prescribed in

the Asher-Harper study), was weighed daily Monday through Saturday and was

counseled by one of the investigators who administered the injections.

Laboratory studies were performed at the time of initial physical examinations

and at the end of the study. Twenty of 25 in the HCG and 21 of 26 patients in the

placebo groups completed 28 injections. There was no statistically significant

difference in the means of the two groups in number of injections received,

weight loss, percent of weight loss, hip and waist circumference, weight loss per

injections, or in hunger ratings. HCG does not appear to enhance the

effectiveness of a rigidly imposed regimen for weight reduction.

PMID: 786001 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


3. West J Med. 1977 Dec;127(6):461-3.

Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) in the treatment of obesity: a critical

assessment of the Simeons method. Greenway FL, Bray GA.

Injections of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) have been claimed to aid in

weight reduction by reducing hunger, and affecting mood as well as aiding in

localized (spot) reduction. We have tested these claims in a double-blind

randomized trial using injections of HCG or placebo. Weight loss was identical

between the two groups, and there was no evidence for differential effects on

hunger, mood or localized body measurements. Placebo injections, therefore,

appear to be as effective as HCG in the treatment of obesity.

PMCID: PMC1237915

PMID: 595585 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


4. Arch Intern Med. 1977 Feb;137(2):151-5.

Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) treatment of obesity. Shetty KR, Kalkhoff RK.

After a nine-day control period, six hospitalized obese women were placed on 500

calorie diets and were given 125 IU of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG)

intramuscularly daily for 30 days. Another five obese women received injections

of diluent only and consumed identical diets for the same period. Mean weight

loss in the HCG-treated group was nearly identical to that achieved by women

given the placebo. Reduction of triceps skinfold thickness or circumferential

body measurements of the chest, waist, hips, and thighs were not different.

Patters of change of a variety of plasma and urine substrates, electrolytes, and

hormones were similar in the two groups and consistent with semistarvation and

weight loss. These results indicate that HCG has no effects on chemical and

hormonal parameters measured and offers no advantage over calorie restriction in

promoting weight loss."

ambrosij

To those of you who are thinking about trying this...do not read this forum and let the posters deter you. People simply can not wrap their heads around the idea that REAL HCG actually works, and has worked for 50+ years when used in conjunction with the directions as provided by Dr. Simeon in "pounds and inches" which is available free all over the internet. In addition, to each study that discredits HCG, there is another that backs it up, and I find it humorous when I start seeing links pop up because they definately are only posting what backs up THEIR argument. At least when I provided links I provided studies for and against HCG so people could make up their own minds. When of the previous posters said that personal experience can not be scientific...okay, but personal experience defiantely shows a trend. And for every primary source that said they were not happy with HCG (of which I have only one, who by the way kept the weight off for two years with doing NO exercise, there are at least 100 people who have had a great amount of success). However, if you are not willing to change your current habits to a healthier life style then why bother? You will gain all the weight back just as you would with any other diet or exercise plan once you stop. Dont buy HCG drops from some online snake oil salesman, and dont buy them from your local pharmacy. Either get a prescription from your doctor, or order the actual HCG hormone from an online pharmacy like alldaychemist or reliablepharmacy...I have people all the time ask me where to get the REAL HCG from and they send me a link and it disgusts me the way companies are taking advantage of people. In one instance this woman bought "Real HCG Drops" that was on the bottle...and then a disclaimer that it was "100% Hormone Free" like that was a good thing. HCG isnt for everyone, you should have a good amount of weight to lose, have a plan for after the protocol is over...to include exercise, and be dedicated in your weight loss. I personally lost 32 pounds in one round (starting weight 252), (men will generally lose more), and during that time I began sleeping better, had more energy, and was just generally a more pleasant person, and that was during my 500 calorie days...to be honest I didnt miss those extra calories one bit and it was actually an effort to double that intake once the round was complete...I went from over 30% body fat to begin with and on the last day of the protocol I recorded a body fat % of 19%...which equals about a 2% loss in lean muscle mass...and that is pretty damn good. If I gain the weight back it will be my fault not the HCG's, I go to the gym now two hours a day, eat clean and healthy, and generally feel better about myself. Believe it or not alot of men also will go through an eating disorder at some point in their life, the difference is that it is not nearly as severe, and we never talk about it...mine was when I was a sophmore in college. I weighed a strapping 175lbs, which by the way was just within the normal range of the BS BMI. I weighed that 175lbs through what is called anorexic exercise. I started that year weighing about 218lbs, I wanted that six pack, I wanted to be in shape, get the girls...I mean it was college. I began eating "right" with a reduced calorie diet, about 1800 calories a day and really good stuff like salads, whole grain pasta, chicken breast, boiled egg whites, turkey...all that "Mens Health" food. In only about two weeks I had dropped down to 197, about two months later I was down to 175. I went to the gym in the morning for two hours, ran outside in the afternoon, and then returned to the Gym for two more hours, I did this five times per week. The whole purpose was to burn more calories than I was consuming, and I definately made sure of that, if I needed to stay at the gym longer I would, I also made sure to burn as many calories as I thought I would consume or "drink" over the weekends. But even during the weekends I was nervous and scared about what I was eating...yes scared...I can remember eating a pizza and kept reaching down to check and make sure my abs were still there...I felt so guilty after eating that Pizza I drank water till I puked...yeah thats a great way to live, so scared you will lose your physique that you cant even eat a damn slice of pizza. I was running two miles in under 11 minutes, bench pressing nearly 300 oh yeah I was in shape alright...so much so that when I sat down with my shirt off and turned in one direction every one of my ribs showed, my face was sucked way in, my mother thought I was sick, and I was incredibly paranoid about missing even a single workout. I had my body fat measured and it was below what would be considered healthy even for elite athletes. What I found funny is that nobody was concerned, except mom...I heard alot of "you look great" and "you are like a new person," even my old high school coach who did my body fat test for me didnt seem to be concerned about how low it was. Seems like despite how unhealthy you really are if is coming from eating right and good old fashion exercise it is "A OK" I stayed like this until the end of junior year when we had a very significant family tragedy. It wasnt feasible for me to exercise for several weeks, my very selective diet wasnt available, and it generally a very unpleasant time. By the end of the summer I was not only heavier than when I started, I would NEVER be able to maintain my weight again, or at least bring it below 200 where I would like to be. Dieting, exercise, ephedrine, phentermine, weight watchers, more exercise, starvation, accupuncture...on and on and on, to say I have "tried it all" would be an understatement. Since I graduated college eight years ago my body has been a roller coaster of fitness and weight. In fact I have consistently exercised over those eight years, Im in the Army I have no choice but to exercise in the morning. My weight is up, my weight is down generally bouncing between 230 and as much as 270...up down up down. Then I found HCG, I was having sleeping problems, I was having energy problems, and after just a month I am at a weight I have not seen in nearly nine years, I am sleeping better, thinking better, and feeling better. I have a drive to exercise more than just the one hour in the morning..to get and be fit...and it was all because something finally was able to push me past the stumbling blocks that I have faced for EIGHT long years. Let someone say I didnt try my *kitten* off the last eight years, I will punch them right in the face, because chances are I tried TEN TIMES as hard as someone who simply eats what ever the hell they want, does a little exercise, and then has the body of a fitness model...I will defend HCG regardless of any study that is EVER published...I know what it did for me, I know what potential it has to do for other people, and while this testimonial might not be scientific I think it is damn inspiring.

Ziggysgirl

My Doctor reccommended this "Diet" to me and I have read this forum and alot more on the web. I feel I was completely informed of the risks and the possible rewards for trying HCG. I have struggled with weight my entire life and I am a very active person, I have done several 5k's and even Triathlons at plus 300 lbs. I started phase 1 of the "Diet" on March 1st I have tried and tried to stick to 500 calories which I have found impossible to do, but I have stuck to the portocol of 5oz protien 1 cup veggie 1 cup fruit (from the approved foods) and have positve results. I have been averageing about 600 calories a day and had little hunger and no cravings. This is working for me I am down 13 lbs I can't remember when I was below 300lbs. I have noticed that is changing the way I eat and that is a positvie. I am learning that alot of veggies that I would never have tried in the past I actually like.

This "Diet" may not be for everyone, we are all different, that is what makes the world go around. There is eveidence to support both sides of this debate. My feeling is that it is like every other "Diet" it works for some and doesn't for others.

jstalittlecrzy

I started "dieting" on February 20th - counted calories 1200-1500 day and weighed every day.
Daily weight-ins follow: 190, 190, 189, 191, 192, 190, 187, 191, 188 - so about 2 lbs after about 9 days, not too bad.
I was going to try hcg and did this to see what was going on before I started it

LD Mon and Tues, (Feb 28/29) 188 and 191 - (custard malts, double cheeseburgers, a pound of bacon, eggs, real pepsi, cheese, I really did "load" on the fats) Started SL hcg on Mon. (bought on internet, tested pos for hcg)
Daily weigh-ins starting Wed, d1 of vlcd
190, 187, 188, 184, 184, 185, 184, 183 - about 7 lbs after 8 days

I feel well, no headaches, a little dizzyness if I stand up too quickly (but that happened on normal 1200-1500 cal diet too)
I'm eating small amounts every 2 hours and eating my protein 2 x day, and drinking lots of water.
I wil continue on the first phase, do phase 3 and 4 and then decide if I want to start it again.

Guess you have to decide for yourself if you want to try this stuff.....the only thing you have to lose is weight

wriglucy

I started "dieting" on February 20th - counted calories 1200-1500 day and weighed every day.
Daily weight-ins follow: 190, 190, 189, 191, 192, 190, 187, 191, 188 - so about 2 lbs after about 9 days, not too bad.
I was going to try hcg and did this to see what was going on before I started it

LD Mon and Tues, (Feb 28/29) 188 and 191 - (custard malts, double cheeseburgers, a pound of bacon, eggs, real pepsi, cheese, I really did "load" on the fats) Started SL hcg on Mon. (bought on internet, tested pos for hcg)
Daily weigh-ins starting Wed, d1 of vlcd
190, 187, 188, 184, 184, 185, 184, 183 - about 7 lbs after 8 days

I feel well, no headaches, a little dizzyness if I stand up too quickly (but that happened on normal 1200-1500 cal diet too)
I'm eating small amounts every 2 hours and eating my protein 2 x day, and drinking lots of water.
I wil continue on the first phase, do phase 3 and 4 and then decide if I want to start it again.

Guess you have to decide for yourself if you want to try this stuff.....the only thing you have to lose is weight

I agree that you have to decide for youself..100%! My only problem is that there is NO scientific evidence (besides 2 studies done by a person closely associate with the hcg "diet,"...which is a red flag to anyone reading statistics) shows that it is the hcg hormone. If you want to lose weight following the diet at 500 calories a day...fine! You'll lose! I don't think ANYONE is doubting that. It's the hcg hormone I have a problem with. I have not read ONE THING BY AN RD that says it's good, and NOTHING BASED ON QUANTITATIVE DATA. That's where my problem is at.

That...and I'm worried about people developing an eating disorder from this. I know there is no scientific evidence for this, just my personal experience....but I remember when I developed my eating disorder, and you do feel good with the low calories. You get to a point where you feel hungry, and you tell yourself "ok....just get past this and it will pass." Which...it does, and then your floating on a high of overcoming the hunger...and seeing the scale go down. My point...the hcg part, is a scam for people to make money. Do the diet on your own without the drops...you'll get the same results.

Take care all who do it! I would LOVE to hear follow up stories after a month or 2 or 3 of stopping it.

ANYONE EATING 500 CALORIES A DAY WILL LOSE WEIGHT...ther is NO argument about that!

(And jstalittlecrzy...this is NO means meant at you....you just provided a statement that worked perfect with what I wanted to say. So thanks:)

wriglucy

Oh...and so it is the hcg that does the job. Then....not cutting your calories and using the drops, should equal weight loss...right? I mean...if it is the hormone..right?

Yep....probabaly isn't going to work. I'd LOVE to have someone try that though...not change anything up, and add the drops. Because...according the the hcg plan.... "HCG drops can actually help the body burn more fat and can be used to aid in weight loss."

SO...if it TRULY is the hormone that makes you lose weight....then adding it to ANY persons diet would help them lose weight....right?

Probably not. Pretty positive it's the 500 calories a day that causes people to lose weight...not the hormone.

jstalittlecrzy

just another thought - this "diet" is not meant to be something you are on forever. Normally done for 23 days or 40 days, then slowly increase caloric intake to your maintenance level, always watching your weight and being aware of what your body is saying. You go at least 6 weeks, eating normally, watching your weight before you start another "round" of hcg, and another 23-40 days of losing weight. The main idea is to lose weight quickly (good for ones self esteem) without losing muscle mass, and learning to eat normally inbetween the diet. There are mounds and mounds of information with hundreds of people who have used it successfully, and not so successfully, out there for everyone to read. Most are people who have had great success with this diet and want to let people know about how they did it. (we do like to talk about ourselves, don't we?) And most (most!) will forward you to a legit pharmacy that you can purchase it from. There are those out there trying to take advantage of the public, trying to sell anything that is suppose to have hcg in it. Do your homework, read all information, pro and con, and decide for yourself if it is for you. And make sure you have the real thing - test it !
Just a question?? Is weight watchers or any other "diet" program any better/worse? They are selling a product to make money. For some it works, for some it doesn't. For some, it sends them into a spiral of fasting/gorging just to have a loss at that weekly weigh-in. Been there - done that. Don't want to do it again.
I'm eating 2 cups of vegtables, 8 ounces of lean meat, 2 fruits and 2 bread servings a day, more "good" food than I have eaten in a long time, and quickly losing the weight. I'm active (have horses, dogs, snow to shovel and plow and a house to keep up) and do not feel hungry, deprived. weak, tired or any other symptoms that I had when I tried other ways of "dieting".
If you do not believe in this way of taking off pounds, and want to follow the normal way of dieting - i think that is wonderful and I hope you have much success. This is just an alternative. There is absolutely no medical information that states in any way/shape/form that taking hcg can harm you.
Good luck to everyone embarking on a weight loss. Great success to all. I just want to do it quickly, then get on a great
"forever" meal program (I won't call it a diet)
Not getting down on anyone - just stating how I feel. Everyone...... have a great eating day.

janesmith1

Of course it's a scam. Look at tons of people on MFP who did not do the "diet" and lost the SAME AMOUNT OF WEIGHT as people on the HCG thread. Even the defender guy here, there's another guy here who lost 35 lbs in one month using MFP alone, ie, cal counting in a HEALTHY WAY. I have another friend on here who has lost 30 lbs in one month NOT DOING HCG, just doing cal counting in a healthy way on MFP!

ambrosij

Nobody is jumping down your throat but dont think Im not going to defend the other side of this with verocity either.

Here's a thought I have...take it or leave it. But I said that this 'diet' reminds me of my eating disorder I developed in HS. So, I found this on: http://www.webmd.com/mental-health/anorexia-nervosa/anorexia-nervosa-what-happens


"Anorexia Nervosa - What Happens
Anorexia nervosa almost always begins with a plan to follow a strict weight-loss diet. Limiting foods then leads to malnutrition and unhealthy weight loss. As malnutrition sets in, the brain and metabolism change. This limits the appetite, how the body can use food, and the person's ability to think clearly and make good decisions.

After anorexia starts, it is very difficult for the person to return to normal eating without help. When left untreated, anorexia can continue for a lifetime. This leads to long-term malnutrition or starvation-and sometimes death.

If you struggle with anxiety, tend to finish the things you start, and strive for perfection, you may be at risk for crossing the line from dieting to anorexia.4, 2 For some people, anorexic eating habits can meet a need for personal control and self-esteem. Some teens may fall into this pattern as a way to cope with big changes and challenges.

Early treatment of anorexia offers the best chance of recovery. The more irrational eating habits that a person develops, the harder it is to return to a healthy outlook on nutrition. Because people who have anorexia tend to strongly deny that they have a problem and are secretive about their eating, family members or loved ones usually seek help for them on their behalf."


Paragraph 3 was the one that made me think mostly of this "diet." Also, I know the malnutrition may not kick in for awhile, but that's why to me, paragraph 3 is the red flag paragraph. I also know that there hasn't been research that link hcg diet to anorexia, so this is just my observation.

When I lost 20 pounds in a month, and was a perfectionist and tried to be perfect, losing weight was like a drug. It was a high for me not to eat over 500 calories and then weigh myself the next day. It's scary how it can take over your life.

DISCLAIMER: Like I said....this is JUST my opinion and some stuff I've noticed. Please don't jump down my throat for MY own observations. I know there is no scientific data to back this up, that's why I'm saying it as my own observation.

ambrosij

No not at all that right there proves you are pretty ignorant on how HCG works.

Oh...and so it is the hcg that does the job. Then....not cutting your calories and using the drops, should equal weight loss...right? I mean...if it is the hormone..right?

Yep....probabaly isn't going to work. I'd LOVE to have someone try that though...not change anything up, and add the drops. Because...according the the hcg plan.... "HCG drops can actually help the body burn more fat and can be used to aid in weight loss."

SO...if it TRULY is the hormone that makes you lose weight....then adding it to ANY persons diet would help them lose weight....right?

Probably not. Pretty positive it's the 500 calories a day that causes people to lose weight...not the hormone.