The HCG Diet Protocol

     The HCG diet has been around for over 50 years.  Dr A.T.W. Simeons, a Brithish endocrinologist, researched and promoted this diet in the 1950's.  His studies suggested that a daily injection of a female pregnancy hormone, Human Chorionic Gonadotropin, together with a strict reduction in calorie intake caused significant fat loss while maintain muscle mass.
     Studies have said that the diet does not work.  However, numerous patients trying the diet claim that the diet is both effective and they actually feel "good" while on it.
     The diet protocol consists of daily injections or sublingual doses of HCG followed by a strict routine of small amounts of certain fruits, Melba toast, protein and vegetables.  The diet calorie amount is approximately 500 calories a day.  The HCG is said to tap the fat reserves of the dieter to make up theadditional calories needed for daily functioning.  No exercise is required.
      The meat chosen while on the diet must be the leanest available.  I used the 96% fat free content ground beef and the white meat of the chicken breast with all the visable fat and skin removed.  It is also important not to use creams or oils in cosmetics during the reduction phase of the diet protocol.  Baby oil or mineral oil can be used instead of lotions and creams.
      Hunger is not a problem on the diet.  At least it wasn't a problem for me.  The drops (even thehomeopathic ones I used) seemed to alleviate any hunger pangs.  I did get severe leg cramps during the diet.  I combatted them using liquid magnesium drops and potassium tablets.  It is important to drink plenty of water during the diet.  Water and black coffee and tea in any amount are encouraged.
     I have tried the HCG Diet using the homeopathic sublingual drops.  Though several sources indicate that the homeopathic drops offer only trace amounts of HCG and the only effect is a "placebo" effect.  I was able to lose 25 pounds.
     The diet worked nicely for me, targeting the belly fat and hip fat I wanted to unload.  My downfall was the after diet protocol, which I did not follow.  The after diet phase advises 1500 calories a day with no starches, breads, nitrites, sugar or alcohol for six weeks after the diet drops or shots and reduced calorie portion of the diet regime is over. I am a testimonial to the the fact that this phase must be followed to maintain the weight loss.
      I have decided to go on the diet again, this time using the Pharmacy Grade HCG formula which has the actual HOrmone in the amounts recommended by Dr Siemeons. I will continue to post on my progress