The HCG diet is a weight loss plan developed by Dr. A.T.W. Simeons, a British doctor.HCG Diet Info: Dr. Simeons HCG Diet Manuscript The two main components of the diet include regular injections of Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) and a 500 calorie daily diet of limited food choices. Advocates of the diet believe that the injections of HCG allow a dieter to reduce the side effects typically associated with a low-calorie diet, such as hunger.HCG Diet Info: HCG Diet Overview

HCG is a hormone that is present in pregnant women. When urine is tested for pregnancy, it is actually being tested for this hormone. Levels of HCG in the bloodstream may also be tested to scan for potential birth defects.http://www.webmd.com/baby/human-chorionic-gonadotropin-hcg

HCG has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration as a weight loss aid. In addition, no conclusive studies have been conducted regarding the hormone's ability to cause users to lose weight. HCG can also produce side effects such as irritability and headaches, and males who use it run the risk of developing enlarged breasts.http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/hcg-diet/AN02091

People who go on the HCG diet are likely to lose weight, but this is true of any diet plan that restricts calories. Only 500 calories per day are allowed on the HCG diet, which is about 1/4 of the normal caloric intake for many adults. It can be difficult to consume enough nutrients on such as restrictive plan.http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/hcg-diet/AN02091

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