Like many “lose weight quickly” diets, the HCG diet is based around the principle of a very low calorie diet (VLCD). The idea is that by eating very few calories, you are going to lose weight as a result. But although this is a very effective way of shedding the excess fat, lots of people are understandably concerned about going on a very low calorie diet.
How does the very low calorie diet component of the HCG diet actually work and is it dangerous?
The very low calorie diet phase of the HCG diet restricts your calorie intake to no more than 500 calories per day. But although this sounds scary to some, the beauty of the HCG diet is that you are actually benefiting from the extra calories released from the fat deposits in the hips, thighs, stomach, and bottom area. The HCG hormone unlocks these fat cells and allows your body to consume an extra 1500-4000 calories per day, which is while you feel full of energy despite being on a very low calorie diet. Being on a low calorie diet for a short period is not dangerous unless you have any underlying health problems—and if this is the case, you must talk to your doctor before beginning any very low calorie diet, including the HCG diet.
What can I eat on the HCG diet?
A big concern of HCG dieters is that they will have very little choice of food. However, you should not be concerned about this as you can choose from thirteen different vegetables, six types of protein, and four fruits. You are also allowed to drink tea, coffee, and water on the HCG diet.
What happens after I have completed the HCG very low calorie diet phase?
The HCG diet is designed to reprogram your long-term food habits. Once the VLCD phase has been successfully completed, you will be used to eating healthier foods and smaller portions. This will enable you to maintain your weight loss and avoid slipping back into unhealthy eating patterns. The period after the VLCD phase of the HCG diet is known as the maintenance phase. Like the VLCD phase, the maintenance phase is extremely important and should not be skipped as it is during this phase of the HCG diet that you will cement your weight loss achievements and adopt a permanently healthy lifestyle full of whole foods and sensible exercise.
