HCG Diet Friendly Foods

The human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) diet is a low calorie diet that includes injections of HCG. Foods for the plan must be chosen carefully as only 500 calories are allotted each day.

History

According to dietscam.org, the HCG diet was developed in the 1960s by Dr. T Albert Simeons. Although HCG is a hormone found in pregnant women, Dr. Simeons suggested that it would suppress appetite if injected into dieters.


Function

To get the full nutritional content you need, it is important to eat high-nutrient foods like lean protein, fruits, and vegetables. Although limited grains and fats are allowed in some low calorie diets, they should be avoided while on the HCG plan.


Time Frame

According to hcgdietdirect.com, the HCG diet typically lasts for 15 days to a month. Some dieters follow the plan for two to three months; however, this may put the body into starvation mode.


Considerations

According to dietscam.org, the FDA has not approved HCG injections as a method of weight loss. Furthermore, the FTC prohibits HCG programs from claiming that the diet is safe.


Warning

Consult with your physician before you start an HCG diet as the suggested caloric values are extremely low. According to biomedicine.org, not eating enough calories can lead to cardiovascular problems.