HCG stands for Human Chorionic Gonadotropin, a hormone naturally produced by the placenta in pregnant women and almost completely controls the metabolic function through the hypothalamus throughout the pregnancy. Contrary to popular belief however, the HCG used in the HCG diet protocols is a variation of the HCG form used for fertility treatments, and in a much smaller dose. All HCG used for medical purposes is natural, but created in laboratories from sterile cells. It is NOT extracted from women or animal urine- a common misconception.

Most HCG dieters report a loss of 1 to 2 lbs a day. At the very least, dieters may loose .5 pound a day, and at the most, 3 + lbs a day. 1 lb is generally lost in the first day. Factors that guarantee faster weight loss include increasing vegetable intake and mixing salad with each meal. Fiber intake is extremely important, as is water intake.

Prior to treatment, your doctor or practitioner will request blood tests and perform a general health assessment. For individual injections, generally no preparations are required. If your physician has you self-injecting, specific sterilizing processes are involved, and certain steps can be taken to reduce the discomfort of injections here:

If your doctor has sent you home with pre-mixed injections of HCG for your weight loss protocol, these tips may help with self-administration of your HCG shots. Pinching the skin and pulling it out gently, can provide distraction to your nerves so you do not feel the needle. Some people prefer the quick motion shot, while others prefer resting the needle on pinched skin and pushing it through in a smooth motion.

• Relax the muscles prior to injection.

• Apply ice to numb the location prior to injection.

• Rotate injection sites.

• Allow medications that have been refrigerated to warm to room temperature before injection.

• Allow the alcohol on your skin to air dry prior to injection.

Everyone is different. Each program is tailored to each individual. However, the first three days of reduced calorie intake are the most intense. After that the nutritional values will be significantly adjusted to ensure a safe and effective weight loss, more importantly, fat loss.

An increase in the level of ketones in the body results in a larger than normal excretion of sodium and water loss. During ketosis, many people tend to feel sluggish and tired and will experience low levels of energy. Other, less severe side effects include constipation, gas, and excess protein in the body.

This program is not just a diet. It is a lifestyle change. There is no magic wand. Our purpose is to educate and support a healthy lifestyle so that when you reach your goal, you are able to maintain your weight on your own. If you go back to old habits you will regain weight.

Dining out is tough because restaurants use lots of butter, oil and salt to make sure their food tastes good. Even “Healthy Meals” can be prepared in an unhealthy manner. It is always safest to prepare your own meals. However, if you find yourself at a restaurant ask if they have a “Lighter Fare” menu or if they can recommend low carb items. In general the safest things will be a grilled or baked fish, chicken (skinless) with a steamed vegetable (not potatoes or corn). If you have a salad, ask for them to put the dressing on the side or bring your own. They often will have Balsamic Vinegar, olive oil or lemon juice. Just keep track of what you use.

The most important thing to do is to stay hydrated and ensure a safe amount of weight loss. A safe amount is generally 1-4 pounds per week. Beyond that, you are at risk of water and muscle loss. There is also a great deal of research involved with skin care. Your doctor will recommend a treatment plan with one of their aestheticians to optimize skin care. This will help to maximally restore your skin’s elasticity.

Again, it is very important to drink plenty of water. The decrease in carbohydrates will cause the body to excrete ketones and water. Keep sugar free chewing gum and mouthwash on hand can help.

Dr. Kim and her team will work with you to set a goal that is both attainable and healthy. In general we are more concerned about the fat mass and fat percentage then actual weight and BMI. Losing 10 pounds of fat is far better then losing 10 pounds of water.

Low carbohydrate diets not only help in weight loss, but also in lowering triglycerides and improving HDL: Total cholesterol ratio. Due to the low glycemic index, there is also a significant improvement in glucose management in diabetics.

Nausea or upset stomach may be a side effect of taking vitamins. Usually, this is relieved by taking medication and multi-vitamins after eating. Occasionally, some people do not tolerate certain medications and need to be taken off of them or switched to a different medication if needed.

Constipation is one side effect of a low carbohydrate diet. It is important that you eat a high amount of fiber (E.G. Broccoli, spinach). It is also very important to drink plenty of water. Exercise will also increase your bowel activity. If constipation persists, there are alternatives such as “The Perfect Food” and an over the counter stool softener, “Colace” which can be taken after discussing this with your doctor.

The shots contain vitamins which have not been found to have overdose toxicity levels. Any amount that is not absorbed will be excreted from the body as waste. The vitamins and amino acids in the injections have been shown in research to increase fat and cholesterol metabolism, improve energy, mood and prevent fatigue.