The Hidden Dangers of the HCG Diet

In the past, proponents of the HCG diet hailed it as the secret force behind boosting one’s metabolism while burning fat and supporting measurable weight loss. Even better? These same proponents say dieters can partake in the HCG diet1 safely and effectively without ever feeling hungry. The HCG, or human chorionic gonadotropin diet, was first proposed by Dr. Albert Simeons2 as a weight loss tool in 1954, and it remains a popular weight loss mechanism many years later. But does it work and, more importantly, is it safe?

The HCG Diet is a Crash Diet

First and foremost, it must be recognized that the HCG diet features a one-size-fits-all model for weight loss. It calls for ultra-low calorie and protein consumption and, traditionally, it doesn’t account for any individual dietary needs. Those who engage in the HCG protocol consume fewer than 800 calories per day; while this will yield weight loss, it also brings with it a host of physical challenges.

This extremely low caloric intake can result in muscle loss, extreme fatigue, and a general loss of energy. Moreover, many who partake in the HCG diet experience severe mood swings, strong headaches, and even depression. Many researchers believe this is largely due to starvation level-caloric intake, which ultimate causes one’s metabolism to decrease and entire body to eventually shut down.

The HCG Diet Works – But Not How You Might Think

Very low-calorie diets yield rapid and measurable weight loss. However, this is due to the innate fact that any diet so low in calories will make you lose weight. For those seeking long term weight loss solutions in which they will lose weight and keep it off over time, a more balanced approach is needed. For example, a low-carb protocol is often the first key to success.

By cutting back on both carbs and sugars, our hunger response dissipates over time, and many find themselves eating far fewer calories. Unlike the HCG diet where caloric intake is suppressed from the start, following a low-carb protocol helps lower your body’s insulin levels to reduce bloat, shed unnecessary weight, and avoid rapid restriction. Essentially, eating low-carb inherently means one eats fewer calories without the risks associated with something like the HCG Diet.

Think Long Term vs. Short Term

Weight loss is a tricky and personal topic, but those seeking a healthier lifestyle all want one main thing: results. It’s important to remember that, while crash diets like the HCG diet might seem appealing in the short term, they won’t yield long-term success. Instead of a quick fix, start at the beginning and trim your carb intake. By doing so, you can ensure your body has what it needs to function and succeed in the long term.