HCG Frequently Asked Questions ` (FAQ)
DIETARY QUESTIONS:
Q: Can I complete the HCG protocol if I am a vegetarian or vegan?
A: Yes, just substitute the Protein (Meat) Servings for Lunch & Dinner with Fat-Free Cottage Cheese and hard boiled or poached Eggs.
Q: Can I complete the HCG protocol if I am lactose intolerant?
A: Yes.
Q: How much salt would you recommend using?
A: There is no restriction on the use of salt. On the other hand, an increase in salt can be one of the most common causes for inconsistencies in weight, due to water retention.
Q: The diet states that tap water is not preferred. Why?
A: Tap water contains chlorine, which affects the thyroid.
Q: Why do I “gorge” for the first 3 days of the protocol?
A: It takes 3 days for HCG to completely enter your system; gorging helps with hunger feelings while on the program.
Q: What are the best foods on which to gorge?
A: High fat calorie foods such as full fat dairy products, nuts, oils, avocados, etc.
Q: Are frozen veggies okay instead of fresh?
A: Fresh vegetables are preferred, but frozen vegetables will work.
Q: May I eat pickles with any meal on the diet?
A: Cucumbers and vinegar are on the protocol so pickles are permitted. If you find that you are not losing weight, stop eating the pickles.
Q: What can I eat while I’m completing the HCG protocol?
A: The complete diet is covered in the initial 2-hour orientation. However, here is a basic overview:
• Drink two quarts of water each day.
• Breakfast: herbal teas, black teas, or coffee.
• Lunch/dinner: 500 calories of food each day from the following: 100 grams of beef, veal, chicken, white fish, lobster, shrimp, or tuna. Two vegetables from the approved list with each meal (includes broccoli, cabbage, cucumbers, green beans, zucchini, tomatoes, and others). One fruit from the approved list with each meal (includes apple, orange, strawberries, grapefruit, peach, apricot, cherries, and others). In place of fruit, ¾ cup of non-fat yogurt can be eaten once per day. Finally, one serving of crackers or bread sticks from the approved list with each meal.
Q: Won’t I starve if I only consume 500 calories per day?
A: No. Because HCG releases your fat reserves, your body begins to “consume” the fat, which acts as a source of energy in place of food. In essence, you burn about one pound of fat each day (one pound is 3,500 calories). Therefore, your total consumption each day will be about 4,000 calories – 500 from food and 3,500 from fat. That is why most patients do not experience extreme hunger while using HCG.
PROGRAM QUESTIONS:
Q: Will I lose exactly one pound every day while on the program?
A: No. Most patients on the 23-day program tend to lose about 20-25 pounds; however, the weight loss does not always happen evenly over 23-day period. Some patients may notice a “lull” or a span of a few days where little to no weight loss occurs. Some patients often notice quick weight loss after a “lull” period.
Q: If I only want to lose 10-15 lbs. can I still complete the program?
A: I don't recommend it, and neither do many of the Doctors who prescribe the HCG Diet Protocol. If you only need to lose a small amount of weight, there aren’t as many “abnormal fat reserves” available and the hunger experienced throughout the program may be intense. However, many People successfully follow the Protocol despite the increased hunger and cravings... you really have to be dedicated when you have fewer abnormal fat reserves, but it can be done.
Q: Can I complete the protocol if I am nursing a baby?
A: No, when you are nursing you produce prolactin, which interferes with HCG.
Q: Why are the injections “Subcutaneous”?
A: The HCG needs to be metabolized beneath the epidermis to be most effective.
Q: Why do I skip a day in the week when I am completing the 40-day protocol?
A: This prevents your body from building immunity to HCG.
Q: What makeup can I use during the protocol?
A: You can use Makeup that does not include fats, oils, creams and ointments.
Q: Can I use mineral oils?
A: While Mineral Oils are recommended on Dr. Simeon's Original Protocol, new evidence suggests that Mineral Oils are carcinogenic, so I won't touch them! Only use "Organic" Ingredients free of Oils, pesticides and Chemicals.
Q: What lip products can I use?
A: Lipstick is permitted.
Q: Can I use Carmex and Chap Stick?
A: Carmex is okay because it is a wax and it doesn’t penetrate the skin. Chap Stick is not okay, because it penetrates the skin.
Q: What deodorant can I use?
A: You can use Crystal deodorant, which can be found at health food stores.
Q: What lotion and makeup can I use?
A: Oil free lotions. See list at the bottom.
Q: Are shampoos, conditioners, and styling products okay?
A: Yes, as long as they are rinsed out immediately.
Q: Can I color my hair while I’m completing the program?
A: No.
Q: Can I use Crest white strips for whitening my teeth while on HCG?
A: Yes.
Q: Can I do an “apple day” once a week to lose more weight?
A: Yes.
Q: Will the lotions and diaper creams I put on my children have an effect on me, even if I wash my hands immediately after applying?
A: The lotions and creams can have a small effect. We recommend you wear gloves to prevent penetration of any lotions or creams.
Q: Am I alright if I administered my shot on a “no-shot day” and then skipped my shot on the following day?
A: Yes, that is fine. But in the future make sure you do “6 days on, 1 day off” in that sequence.
Q: Can I go tanning while I am on the program?
A: Yes, but do not use tanning lotion or oil.
HEALTH QUESTIONS:
Q: Can I still complete the HCG protocol if I’ve had a hysterectomy?
A: Yes.
Q: How does a diabetic benefit from the program?
A: When a diabetic follows the protocol the HCG naturally stabilizes the blood sugar. It's reported many Diabetics experience an overall drop in fasting blood sugar after completing the program.
Q: Can I still take my medications while on HCG?
A: Yes, as long as the medications do not interfere with the endocrine system. This will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis during your physical with the prescribing Doctor.... Who will speak to you by Phone after you've submitted your Contact/Physical intake Form.
Q: How does HCG affect cholesterol levels?
A: Many notice cholesterol levels fluctuate while on the HCG program. For the majority of patients the cholesterol levels drop and improve.
Q: Can I continue using my hormone medications?
A: All medications that interfere with the endocrine system should be avoided during the program. This can be discussed during your Physical Interview with your Physician. (Which will more than likely be over the Phone.)
Q: Will I be able to stop using my anti-diabetes medications after I complete the HCG protocol?
A: While discontinuance of diabetes medication is possible, it should not be expected as a result of the protocol. Often it depends on how long you’ve been diabetic, how many medications you are currently using, your fasting blood sugar levels, your blood sugar range, etc.
Q: Will HCG help my high blood pressure?
A: Many patients have experienced a decrease in blood pressure. Some patients have been able to stop taking their medications, but this should not be done without medical advice.
Q: Can I continue using my anti-depressant medications?
A: Yes.
Q: Can I continue using my anxiety medications?
A: Yes
Q: Why does HCG interfere with Gout?
A: The HCG increases uric acid levels which may cause a severe attack.
Q: If I don’t have a regular menstrual cycle will the HCG affect that?
A: Some patients have experienced changes in their menstrual cycle while on the HCG. These irregularities are resolved with the completion of the program.
Q: Should I run and exercise while completing the protocol?
A: We do not recommend strenuous exercise while completing the protocol. However, we do recommend walking and other light exercise.
Q: Why do I need to discontinue using thyroid while completing the HCG protocol?
A: The hypothalamus gland, affected by HCG, also controls the thyroid. Taking additional thyroid could cause hyperthyroidism.
Q: When women are on their menstrual cycle, why can’t they receive the injections?
A: Women who are menstruating produce small amount of HCG.
Q: Will I be hungry if I don’t take the injections while on my period?
A: This varies; some women report they are hungrier when on their menstrual cycle and not injecting, and many report that they are unaffected.
Q: What should I do if I get constipated?
A: Drink Dieter’s Tea (Celestial Seasons brand) or licorice tea and increase fluid intake.
Q: What are the negative side effects of the HCG program?
A: Fortunately, very few negative side effects have been noticed or reported. The most frequent complaint I've heard and experienced personally is hunger.
Q: If I am really hungry while on HCG can I use an appetite suppressant? For instance, Hoodia?
A: No, a better idea is to graze on vegetables throughout the day. Choose vegetables that are approved on the protocol as “unlimited.”
Q: Is cold medicine okay?
A: Yes, as long as it does not contain sugar.
COST QUESTIONS:
Q: What is the cost of the program?
A: This will vary from the Clinic you choose, and how many "Rounds" you require to reach your "Goal" Weight - However, you can expect to spend between $200 and $600.
Q: What is included in the cost of the program?
A: Your 'over-the-Phone' Consulation, the HCG serum, and medical supplies.
Q: What if I don’t lose weight, will I receive a refund?
A: Unfortunately, No one can guarantee results of the program. Much of the success of the program is based on your willingness to follow the strict protocol. By “taking days off” or cutting corners on meals, the effectiveness of the program is greatly reduced. I encourage you to follow the protocol with strict heed, however, each body is unique and the program offers no guarantee.
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