HCg Diet: The Getting Started Basics

Due to the overwhelming number of questions I have been getting in response to my weight loss with the HCg protocol, I thought I would put it all together in a blog! 

Today is my 19th day on the "Protocol" as they call it, and I am down 21 lbs.  I know it seems like a lot in such a short time, but when you learn the science behind the diet, it makes a lot of sense.  Plus, the way I see it, being overweight or obese is a lot worse on your body than losing weight quickly is.

The HCG diet was originally developed in the 1950's by Dr. Simeons.  He discovered that there are three types of fat in the human body: structural fat (cushions bones and organs), normal fat (where the body gets energy), and lastly...abnormal fat...does nothing good for your body other than NOT make you fit into your fav pair of jeans!! 

So how does the HCg work?

When used for weight loss, a tiny dose of HCg tells your hypothalamus to release and mobilize abnormal fat stores, not vital fat stores.  Instead of relying on fuel from food, the body uses these abnormal fat stores!  Because of this, the body doesn't feel hungry.  In fact, the HCg burns 3000-4000 calories per day!!

How do you take it?

HCg is administered in drop and needle form.  I personally take the drops 0.5 ml, 6 times per day.  You cannot have anything to drink or eat 15 minutes before and after you administer the drops.  I set times of 7am, 10am, 1pm, 4pm, 7pm and 10pm.  I also use a white board to keep track of my drops, water and food intake.  Also, one full dropper (1.0ml) of liquid B12 is essential for energy and in aiding your body metabolize fats. 

You WILL have success with this Protocol, but you must be committed.  You MUST follow the dosage and diet exactly as written.  The specific foods and combinations were studied extensively by Dr. Simeons, and eating foods not on the list can cause the plan to fail or be much less successful.  Excerpt from Pounds&Inches Made Easy!  By Janet Wilson and Terrie McDonald

The Diet

Step 1:  Load Days

This is by far the best stage ;-)  For the next two days, while taking your drops, you will attempt to eat as much fatty, fried and creamy foods that you can get your hands on.  Burgers, fries, milkshakes, bacon, cheese, breaded anything, GO FOR IT!!  This stage is SO important as it prepares your body for the journey it's about to take.  You may find it difficult by Day 2 to consume so much, but TRUST ME, you will regret it during the first week if you don't.

Step 2:  VLCD

Breakfast: 

Any non-calorie fluids in any amount.  Tea and coffee are unlimited.  Only one tablespoon of fat-free milk allowed in 24 hours.  Stevia may be used, but no sugar or artificial sweeteners.

Lunch: 

1. 100 Grams of veal, beef, chicken breast, fresh white fish, lobster, crab, or shrimp.  Completely free of any fat.  Meat must be weighed raw.
2. 100 grams of one type of vegetable from the following:  spinach, chard, chicory, beet-greens, green salad, tomatoes, celery, fennel, onions, red radishes, cucumbers, asparagus and cabbage.
3. One breadstick (Grissino) or one Melba toast
4. An apple, orange, 6 large strawberries or half a grapefruit.

Dinner:

Same choices as above, but it is recommended that you try and have variety everyday.

Extra Important Highlights

• You MUST drink at least 2 litres of water every day. 
• The juice of one lemon is allowed
• Seasonings allowed include: Apple Cider Vinegar, French's Mustard, Frank's Hot Sauce, Salt, Pepper, mustard powder, garlic, sweet basil, parsley, thyme etc...
• Absolutely NO oil, butter or dressing
• All fresh herbs allowed
• Personal Care and Beauty products must be oil free.  Mineral makeup is allowed.  For a list of all approved personal care products visit www.hcgdietcanada.com

The next two phases are known as Maintenance 1 and Maintenance 2, where you begin to re-introduce your body to various healthy foods.  I will do a blog on the Maintenance phases when I get a little closer to those phases. 

Also, be sure to be taking your measurements!!  Because the HCg is attacking abnormal fat, your body will begin to reshape itself.  So even if you don't see change on the scale, doesn't mean you won't see a change on the tape measurement!

If you would like more information, please visit www.HCGDietCanada.com or email info@hCGDietCanada.com or curewithhcg@hotmail.com (the latter email is my rep, Sadie who offers great support)

Thank you to my fellow dieter/friend, Loni, who is in this journey with me.

Tiffany xo