HCG Original Protocol

 

I Have My HCG...now what?

Now that you've received your injections, you will want to familiarize yourself with the 4 Phases of HCG.  You will use 1 injection a day, preferably in the morning. The injections should be done 2 inches from your navel on either side.

 

Best wishes on the program...NO CHEATING! :)

  

HCG Abbreviations

VLCD- Very low calorie diet. This is used to say you are on the 500 calorie diet and most say what day VLCD12 for example.

  

Phase 1 Take the injection along with loading.  You should load for 2-3 days.

 

Phase 2 begins the 500 calorie diet along with taking the HCG.

 

Phase 3 is the maintenance phase which you continue a diet plan of 60% protein, no carbs, 1500 calories and eat very healthy for 3 weeks following phase 2 to help you stabilize your new weight. You may be in Phase 2 many times if you are doing more than one round on the protocol. For example if you do Round 1, Phase 2 then do the stabilization period of Phase 3. I would then return to Phase 2 and not continue on into Phase 4.

 

Phase 4 is the lifetime maintenance of this diet. You will continue to eat healthy, reintroduce carbs, and watch your inches and the scale, but you have achieved your goal weight and you will not be returning to Phase 2 taking the HCG. The phases are abbreviated as P1, P2, P3, P4. Rounds are very similar if you are on Round 1, Phase 2 it would look like this VLCD1 R1P2. I will blog about the breakdown of each Phase and what’s expected in each separately.

 

TOM- For some ladies on HCG, TOM is not your friend. It may stall your weight loss. TOM is Time of the Month for your period.

 

Releases- This confuses many new people. HCG dieters have releases not losses. When someone says I have released -2 it means they lost that much that particular morning.

 

ACV- Apple Cider Vinegar

 

Cali Kicker- Cayenne powder mixed in warm lemon water, or cayenne capsules taken by with warm lemon water and Stevia

 

LDW/LIW- Last Dosage Weight/Last Injection Weight, your weight on the last day that you took HCG.

 

R2P3D14- Round 2, Phase 3, Day 14. The "R" is for round, if it's your first time doing HCG then it's your first round. "P" is for what phase you're in, and "D" is for what day you're on in that phase

 

POP - Perfect on Protocol

 

The Phases of HCG

 

Phase 1~ This is your loading phase which consists of 2-3 days of eating high fat, high calorie foods. Eat until you're stuffed. This phase is integral to your not being hungry throughout the rest of the program. The best foods to eat are fried meats, milkshakes, cheesecake, etc.  Make sure to do your injections WHILE you’re loading.

 

Phase 2~ VLCD (very low calorie days) this is at minimum 26 days of eating your 500 calorie meals. You may do up to 40 days in this phase before start moving to Phase 3. I've seen some people do the VLCD for 60 days, but studies have shown that to be potentially unsafe and that the body can get immune to the HCG if done in longer periods.

 

Phase 3~ It takes HCG 72 hours to leave your system. In this phase, you will still eat 500 calories a day, but discontinue the injections. The morning after you've taken your last dose, weigh yourself.

 

Phase 4~ 21 days of maintenance...which is the most IMPORTANT phase. You may eat anything you like, prepared any way you like (including fried foods), but NO STARCHES OR SUGARS. Also stay away from pineapple and grapes during this phase, as they are too sweet and could spike your blood sugar. You must weigh yourself every day in this phase. If you are over 2 pounds of your weight the morning of Phase 4, you MUST do a steak day that very same day. Your weight should then stabilize. (You cannot do a steak day 2 days in a row)

 

After maintenance is complete, you may slowly begin to reintroduce sugar and starches back in to your diet. Or alternatively, you may restart the program if you have more weight to lose.

 

HCG Injections during Your Menstrual Cycle

 

One of the most common is whether women should continue taking HCG injections during their menstrual cycle. 

 

According to the original diet protocol, it was recommended women to stop taking HCG during their period. It was stated that women generally had no problems with hunger even without HCG during their period. If they tried to go without HCG after their period was over, they would often start feeling ravenously hungry until they got their dose. I personally continue to take the HCG during my cycle and have been very successful with the program.

 

Weight loss generally slows down during your menstrual cycle. This is caused by the retention of water, which always increases during this time. Don't panic, and don't get discouraged. Above all, don't cheat, as this will lead to a true plateau and/or a weight gain. Although women tend to lose a little less weight than men overall on the HCG diet, it's completely normal. Your extra water weight will come off quickly as soon as your period is over.

 

However, many women have experimented with taking HCG injections during their menstrual cycle. Most of the evidence we have seems to indicate that women have no trouble, although some report heavier and more painful periods. But they also report that their weight did not slow down quite as much. These experiences are only anecdotal, so be careful. If you're worried about it, just follow the original protocol. Either way, you should still lose a lot of weight very fast, and you'll be grateful you tried HCG injections. 

 

5 Common Mistake to Avoid on HCG Plan

**There has been modifications made to the original plan, however...this is a guide on things to avoid doing on the diet.  Please note, some people load for 2 days...others 3 days.

 

  1. Skip the loading days or don’t take enough fat during loading days~ After taking the initial dose of HCG, dieters are required to eat lots of food that are high in fat in the first two days. Some dieters don’t understand why they have to load themselves with fat in order to lose weight and decide to skip the loading days.

 

For a successful HCG diet, dieters need to take enough fatty food in the first two days of HCG injections. The reason is dieters need to consume enough fat in order to replenish the structural fat stores that will be depleted in dieting. With proper loading days, you prep your body for the changes coming and help ease some symptoms that are commonly associated with fast weight loss, such as fatigue, irritability and hunger pains. And don’t worry, the HCG effect of burning your abnormal fat does not kick in until the third dose, so eating fatty food in the first two days won’t slow down your HCG weight loss at all.

 

  1. Mix vegetables in one meal or eat the same meat for lunch and dinner~ Do not to mix vegetables in one meal and not to eat the same meat for lunch and dinner in his original HCG diet protocol. Some people reported not losing weight as expected when they mixed vegetables or ate the same protein for lunch and dinner. So it is important to eat one vegetable for one meal and vary your meat selection for lunch and dinner, in order to maximize your HCG weight loss.

 

  1. Don’t drink enough water or drink the wrong water~ One of the most common errors found on HCG diet is not drinking enough water. For the best weight loss result, you should be drinking at least 2 quarts of water every day. If you are water-deprived, your body can’t metabolize fat as quickly as it could and you will set yourself up to store unwanted fat.

 

In addition, pay attention to what you drink. No diet drinks such as diet soda are allowed on HCG diet. Drink water, teas and mineral water instead. Although Dr. Simeons says OK to drink coffee, it is recommended for you to stay away from it because it could produce cravings for food.

 

  1. Incorrect HCG dosage~ Many dieters choose to conduct HCG weight loss on their own. Thus determining the correct HCG dosage is imperative if one wants to succeed in the HCG diet. Some would mistakenly assume the higher HCG dosage is, the more weight loss they will get. That’s not true. Using more than the recommended HCG dosage can actually make your body immune to HCG and cause the diet to fail in the end.

 

  1. Engage in strenuous exercise while on HCG diet~ Dr. Simeons clearly states not to exercise strenuously on HCG diet. Some HCG clinics actually ask dieters to wait until they are down to within 10-20 pounds of their goal weight before resuming strenuous exercise. The reason is exercising will result in the loss of lean muscle tissues instead.

HCG Food Do's and Don'ts

  • Make sure you drink plenty of bottled or filtered water. About 2 liters of these fluids per day. Many patients are afraid to drink so much because they fear that this may make them retain more water. This is a wrong notion as the body is more inclined to store water when the intake falls below its normal requirements.
  • Fruit or a breadstick may be eaten between meals instead of with lunch or dinner, but not more than four items listed for lunch and dinner may be eaten at one meal.
  • No cosmetics other than lipstick, eyebrow pencil and powder may he used.
  • The 100 grams of meat must be scrupulously weighed raw after all visible fat has been removed. 
  • There is no objection to breaking up the two meals. For instance having a breadstick and an apple for breakfast or an orange before going to bed, provided they are deducted from the regular meals. The whole daily ration of two breadsticks or two fruits may not be eaten at the same time, nor can any item saved from the previous day be added on the following day. It is also worth pointing out that any attempt to observe this diet without HCG will lead to trouble in two to three days.

 

Here are some great ideas for those HCG Dieter’s who are always on to go:

 

Look for restaurants with “Grill” in the name.  These are the best option, as grilling is always the better.  If at all possible avoid restaurants all together.  However, there are some that offer items that are HCG firiendly which gives us some diversity.

  • When ordering white fishes, beef, or chicken in  restaurants make sure to specifically ask that there no butter, oil or extra sauces.  Order some steamed asparagus with no butter and you have a beautiful  evening out!
  • Order a plain hamburger patty with a side of sliced tomato and some strawberries for  dessert.
  • Run into your local  grocery store and grab a ready made salad.  Use some salsa as your dressing.

 Other Rules to Remember:

 

  • No cosmetics, lotions, or creams with oil in them. Buy oil free make-up.  MaryKay, as well as BeautiControl, are powder based and will work great.
  • No cheating allowed. If you deviate from the diet you will not lose weight that day and you could gain weight instead.
  • You must eat everything as described. Do not skip meals. Each meal must consist of the protein, the vegetable and the fruit.  If you choose, you may eat the fruit in between meals as a snack.
  • Try and drink at least one cup of WuLong (oolong), YerbaMate, and Chamomile tea a day

 

MAKE SURE TO DRINK A GREAT DETOX TEA!!!  

We recommend our very own Supreme Success Detox Tea!

 

Possible Side Effects of HCG

 

If any of the following side effects occur while taking HCG, check with your doctor or nurse as soon as possible:

More common Side Effects in Females Only

 

  • Bloating (mild)
  • Stomach or pelvic pain

Less common or rare

  • Abdominal or stomach pain (severe)
  • Bloating (moderate to severe)
  • Decreased amount of urine
  • Feeling of indigestion
  • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea (continuing or severe)
  • Pelvic pain (severe)
  • Shortness of breath
  • Swelling of feet or lower legs
  • Weight gain (rapid)
  • Acne
  • Enlargement of penis and testes
  • Growth of pubic hair
  • Increase in height (rapid)

Frequency not determined

  • Difficult or labored breathing
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Flushing of skin
  • Hives or welts
  • Itching of skin
  • Large, hive-like swelling on face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, sex organs
  • Pain in chest, groin, or legs, especially the calves
  • Redness of skin
  • Severe, sudden headache
  • Skin rash

Less Common Side Effects in Males Only

 

  • Slurred speech
  • Sudden loss of coordination
  • Sudden, severe weakness or numbness in arm or leg
  • Sudden, unexplained shortness of breath
  • Tightness in chest
  • Unusually warm skin
  • Vision changes
  • Wheezing

 

 

Some of the side effects that can occur with HCG may not need medical attention. As your body adjusts to the medicine during treatment these side effects may go away. Your health care professional may also be able to tell you about ways to reduce or prevent some of these side effects. If any of the side effects continue, are bothersome or if you have any questions about them, check with your health care professional.

 

HCG MENU/APPROVED FOODS

 

HCG MENU

Breakfast

  1. Water is a key part of the HCG diet. It’s very important to drink 2 liters of water per day or half your body weight in ounces. For example, if you weigh 160#, drink 80 ounces.
  2. Drink water, coffee and detox tea in the morning, stating that while the body is burning 1,500 to 4,000 calories per day of stored fat while on HCG, drinking plenty of water in the morning is essential to help flush fat (and toxins that had been stored in fat cells) so that they are not re-absorbed. One tablespoon of skim milk is allowed per day.
  3. Optional: You may have one allowed fruit. Some people save both fruits for later, for example with meals, or 20-30 minutes before meals (proper food-combining), or at bedtime.

 

Lunch

  1. 100 grams pre-cooked, raw weight of lean chicken, beef, or white fish (same as 3.5 raw/ 3.0 cooked)
  2. ONE serving allowed vegetable. Raw is optimal for health.
  3. No cooking spray, margarine, butter, oil, dressing (unless HCG approved).

 

Before-dinner Snack: Any non-caloric beverages in any amount. Optional, second fruit portion

 

Dinner

  1. 100 grams pre-cooked, raw weight of lean chicken, beef, or white fish. (same as 3.5 raw/ 3.0 cooked)
  2. ONE serving allowed vegetable. Raw is optimal for health.

 

After Dinner

      3-4 hours later: 2nd fruit if not eaten earlier

 

 

HCG Approved Foods for Phase 2

 

Allowed Foods Although many current HCG food plans may provide more choices–foods that work for the majority of people–for over 30 years, working with thousands of people, Dr. Simeons meticulously worked out a narrow list of foods that work for ALL people.  “All things not listed are forbidden . . . . nothing permissible has been left out” 

 

Fresh Fruit: Total of 2 different fruits per day from the following choices. DO NOT MIX FRUITS. Additionally, the juice of 1 lemon is allowed each day.

  • one medium apple
  • one orange
  • ½ grapefruit
  • 6 large strawberries

 

Fresh Vegetables: Only ONE per meal. Dr. Simeons’ protocol is that we DO NOT MIX VEGETABLES during weight loss stage.

Asparagus, celery, radishes, beet greens, chard salad, greens, cabbage, cucumbers, spinach, cauliflower, onion, tomatoes

NO beans, carrots, corn, pumpkin potatoes, peas, potatoes or grains. Choose only from the above list.

 

Meats: Choose only lean meats, all visible fat must be removed before weighing. Meat must be weighed with digital scales. Dr. Simeons utilized measurement by grams and stated that even as much as one extra gram–the weight of one almond–would slow down weight loss. Beef should be eaten only once per day since U.S. beef has twice the fat content of that in Europe where Dr. Simeons practiced. Many health coaches recommend3.5 ounces (or 3.0 cooked) which is equivalent to 100 grams uncooked.

  • Chicken breast, skinless, boneless
  • Beef: lean round or tip sirloin or milanesa, veal, or lean ground beef
  • White fish: Wild-caught only–cod, flounder, halibut, monkfish, perch, pike, pollock, snapper, sole, tilapia, whiting, crab meat (not imitation), lobster, shrimp, scallops

 

Beverages: Water, tea, coffee, flavored water, and non-caloric beverages. Avoid diet sodas and artificial sweeteners.

 

Approved Flavor Enhancers:

  • Stevia, sea salt, pepper, 100% garlic or onion powder, cumin, curry, cilantro, vinegar, mustard powder, garlic, sweet-basil, parsley, thyme, marjoram and other spices. Walden Farm products
  • No seasoned salt or powdered blends of herbs. Read labels carefully. Even a small amount of sugar, dextrose, maltose, or honey can cause food cravings while on HCG
  • No cooking spray, margarine, butter, oil, or dressing (unless HCG approved)

 

Breadsticks: Grissini breadsticks recommended by Dr. Simeons are included in many HCG menu plans but are not compatible with everyone, may create cravings for more carbohydrates, provide no nutritional benefit, and do not satisfy the sweet tooth as fruit. Consider eliminating this. Dr. Simeons’ protocol was that one breadstick be a substitution for one fruit.  Alternately, you may have 1 Melba toast with lunch and 1 for dinner.

 

Phase 2 Approved Seasonings

There may be seasonings you can use that aren't on this list.  Just make sure there is NO SUGAR in any seasoning/spice that you choose. I also used hot sauce on many of my meals.  

 

Phase 2 listing of permissible herbs and spices:

 

  • Allspice
  • Basil
  • By leaf
  • Cayenne pepper
  • Celery salt
  • Chili powder or seasoning
  • Chines-style five-spice
  • Cilantro (fresh) or coriander leaf
  • Cinnamon
  • Cocoa (unsweetened)
  • Creole seasoning
  • Cumin seed (ground)
  • Dill (leaf and seed)
  • Garlic (cloves, granules, flakes, powder, salt)
  • Ginger root
  • McCormick (garlic pepper grinder, Italian herb seasoning grinder, steakhouse seasoning grinder, broiled steak seasoning salt, rotisserie chicken seasoning, herb chicken seasonings)
  • Mint leaves (dried or fresh)
  • Nutmeg
  • Onion (powder or salt)
  • Oregano (dried)
  • Paprika
  • Parsley (fresh or dried)
  • Pepper (ground and peppercorns)
  • Poultry seasoning
  • Reese All Purpose Steak Salt
  • Rosemary (fresh or dried)
  • Sage (dried)
  • Salt
  • Spice islands (Herbes de Provance, ground chipotle)
  • Stevia (Sweetleaf brand has no additives)
  • Thyme, thyme leaves
  • Tony Chachere’s Original Creole Seasoning
  • Turmeric
  • Weber Grill Creations N’Orleans Cajun seasoning
  • White pepper


 

Allowable Seafood on HCG Phase 2

 

In Addition to shrimp, lobster and crab....the following fish are approved.  Remember to remove skin and shells before weighing or you'll be cheating yourself from getting your 100 grams.  No oils to cook these foods are allowed.

 

Types of White Fish...


  • Ayr
  • Cat Fish
  • Cod
  • Coley
  • Dover Sole
  • Flounder
  • Flying Fish
  • Haddock
  • Hake
  • Halibut
  • Hoki
  • John Dory
  • Kalabasu
  • Lemon Sole
  • Ling
  • Monk Fish
  • Parrot Fish
  • Plaice
  • Pollack
  • Pomfret
  • Red & Grey Mullet
  • Red Fish
  • Red Snapper
  • Rock Salmon/Dogfish
  • Rohu
  • Sea Bass
  • Sea Bream
  • Shark
  • Skate
  • Tilapia Turbot
  • Whiting


PHASE 3 SAFE FOODS

It is critical that you follow this phase as faithfully as you did the phase 2, because *now* is when your hypothalamus will reset, clearing off all the 'bad old days' of yo-yo dieting and poor eating habits.

 

That weight that you were the morning of your last injections / injection is the weight that you use as a basis for your maintenance phase.

 

Many call this LDI (Last Injection Weight).

OR LDW Last Drop Weight (LDW) is the weight you are at on the last day you take your shots/injections before you go into your 72 hours (or 48 hour for homeopathic) off HCG but still on the 500 calories before entering P3 (stabilizing phase)

 

What do you eat for PHASE 3 to help keep the weight off? This Phase 3 list of foods should help.

 

Proteins: All fish including:

Flounder Herring Salmon Sardines Sole Tuna Trout

 

All fowl including:

Cornish Hen Chicken Duck Goose Pheasant Quail Turkey

 

All shellfish including:

Clams Crab Meat Mussels* Oysters* Shrimp Scallops Squid

*Oysters and mussels are higher in carbs so limit to about 4 ounces per day.

 

All meat including:

Lean Beef Lean Bison Bacon* Ham* Lamb Pork Veal Venison

*Some processed meat, bacon, and ham is cured with sugar, which will add to the carb count. -Avoid cold cuts and other meats with added nitrates.

 

Vegetables & Salad Vegetables:

Alfalfa Sprouts Arugula Bok Choy Celery Chicory Greens Chives Cucumber Endive Escarole Fennel Iceberg Lettuce Mushrooms Parsley Peppers Radicchio Radishes Romaine Lettuce

 

Non Salad Vegetables:

Artichokes Asparagus Artichoke Hearts Avocados Bamboo Shoots Broccoli Brussels Sprouts Cabbage Cauliflower Swiss Chard Collard Greens Eggplant Hearts of Palm Kale Leeks Okra Olives (green & black) Onion Rhubarb Sauerkraut Spinach Summer Squash Tomato Turnips Water Chestnuts Zucchini

These vegetables are slightly higher in carbs but provide important nutrients and add variety to your daily foods.

 

Fruits: Blueberries (fresh) Cantaloupe or Honeydew Raspberries (fresh) Strawberries (fresh)

The protocol states any fruit is allowed but to watch very sweet fruits. Fruits that might cause a problem include banana, dates, guava, and mango.

 

Fats (Oils): Butter (REAL not imitation or margarine) Mayonnaise – make sure it has no added sugar Olive Oil Avocado Oil Coconut Oil

 

Vegetable Oils & Other:

Canola Walnut Grape Seed Sesame Sunflower Safflower

 

Dairy: Cottage Cheese Heavy Cream Mozzarella Cheese Ricotta Cheese Blue Cheeses Cheddar Cow, Sheep, and Goat Cheese Cream Cheese Feta Gouda Mozzarella Parmesan Swiss

 

Nuts & Seeds Almonds Brazil nuts Cashews Hulled Sunflower Seeds Macadamias Pecans Pistachios Walnuts

After your HCG Diet Phase 3 you can include some items and see how they affect you. Remember if you gain more than 3 pounds then do a Steak Day and also cut the foods that may be causing your gain.

Another good rule is limiting dairy and really watching your how your digestive system reacts.

Add foods back slow to better judge if they are working for you or not.

The idea here is to develop your personal list of foods that make you feel great and maintain your weight.

 

Starchy Vegetables Acorn Squash Carrots White Potatoes Yams

 

Legumes Black Beans Chickpeas Great Northern Beans Kidney Beans Lentils Lima Beans Navy Beans Pinto Beans

 

Fruit Any fruit is allowed in P4

 

Grains Oatmeal Pasta (whole wheat) Rice (brown)

Remember, anytime you are more than 2 pounds above the weight of the day you last took HCG, you need to do a steak day.

 

***This is a lifetime correction day.

 

 

HCG Alternative for Diabetics

 

Please be advised that this is a suggested guide.  For more detailed information regarding your specific diabetic needs, please consult your doctor.  This information is no way intended to replace recommendations from a medical professional.

 

Borderline diabetic and diabetics may do the 800 Cal diet which consists of: 

3 proteins (1 at breakfast helps stablize sugar)

4 veggies

2 fruit (1 apple daily @10am)

2 starches (1 melba toast is 1 starch)

3 liters of water daily

 

 

Vegetarian Options

Normally protein is part of the daily menu and the main source of proteins are meat and fish. In this context, it seems that vegetarians would not be able to keep the diet. This is not quite the case though, as in most cases there are alternative solutions. It depends on what type of vegetarian you are though.

  • Pescetariansare the ones who avoid meat, but are allowed to eat fish. This is the easy case, as it shouldn’t be any real problem for them at all.
  • Lacto-ovo-vegetariansare the ones that don’t eat both meat and fish. However, they do eat eggs and dairy products. It is still possible to follow the plan, getting your protein from fat-free cottage cheese, fat-free milk and egg whites, which are all on the food list.
  • Vegansare the ones avoiding all animal products. You can still use soy as a source of proteins and maybe vegan protein powder shakes. However, in this case it seems extremely challenging to get good results.

 

 

Vegan Alternative

 

The standard vegan option involves substituting cooked quinoa, raw brown rice protein, and Ezekiel bread for The meat protein and melba toast. The HCG Vegan Protocol for the VLCD is below. You should eat no more than 500 calories per day. Twice daily, choose one item from each group below:

 

Complete Protein

1 serving of Ezekiel bread, 1/2 cup cooked quinoa, or 28 grams raw brown rice protein powder 

 

Vegetable (One type only)

 Spinach, chard, chicory, beet-greens, green salad, tomatoes, celery, fennel, onions, red radishes, cucumbers, asparagus, or cabbage

 

Fruit (One type only)

Medium apple, Medium orange, A handful of strawberries, or a half of a grapefruit

 

Other Allowed Items

  • The juice of one lemon daily
  • Dry seasonings (must account for any calories, but no oil, butter or dressing)
  • Stevia     
  • Tea, coffee, plain water, or mineral water

SNACKS AND SWEETS

 

When you’re taking the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin, you have to severely restrict the calories in your diet. Five hundred calories is the most you can have in a day. Technically, you’re not allowed to have any snacks while you’re following the limited food selections of the HCG diet plan. You can save certain foods from your lunch or dinner meals and eat them later on, however.

 

Nibble on Crackers

The HCG diet plan allows you to have specific crackers twice a day, with lunch or dinner, or you can save them to enjoy later. You’re allowed to have one grissini breadstick twice a day. These crisps are long, thin crackers, shaped like small breadsticks. Or you can have one Melba toast -- a dry thin cracker -- two times daily.

 

 

Enjoy Fresh Fruit

You can have a small serving of fruit with lunch or dinner meals as well. These fruits can make a perfect midafternoon or late-night snack if you don’t want to eat them with your meals. Snack on a small apple or orange if you need something to eat on the go. You can also indulge in half a grapefruit or a handful of whole strawberries.

 

 

Fill Up on Drinks

If you’re tummy starts growling, before you reach for food, have something to drink. That rumbling feeling could just be a sign that you haven’t had enough fluids, not that you’re hungry. The HCG plan includes unlimited amounts of water and plain tea. If you need a little flavor, add in a squeeze of fresh lemon, although you’re only allowed to juice one lemon per day. You’re also allowed to drink as much black coffee as you wish, sweetened with stevia. You can add milk to tea or coffee as long as you limit yourself to just 1 tablespoon per day.

Can I Have Snacks on HCG Program?

 

When you’re taking the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin, you have to severely restrict the calories in your diet. Five hundred calories is the most you can have in a day. Technically, you’re not allowed to have any snacks while you’re following the limited food selections of the HCG diet plan. You can save certain foods from your lunch or dinner meals and eat them later on, however.

 

Nibble on Crackers

The HCG diet plan allows you to have specific crackers twice a day, with lunch or dinner, or you can save them to enjoy later. You’re allowed to have one grissini breadstick twice a day. These crisps are long, thin crackers, shaped like small breadsticks. Or you can have one Melba toast -- a dry thin cracker -- two times daily.

 

 

Enjoy Fresh Fruit

You can have a small serving of fruit with lunch or dinner meals as well. These fruits can make a perfect midafternoon or late-night snack if you don’t want to eat them with your meals. Snack on a small apple or orange if you need something to eat on the go. You can also indulge in half a grapefruit or a handful of whole strawberries.

 

 

Fill Up on Drinks

If you’re tummy starts growling, before you reach for food, have something to drink. That rumbling feeling could just be a sign that you haven’t had enough fluids, not that you’re hungry. The HCG plan includes unlimited amounts of water and plain tea. If you need a little flavor, add in a squeeze of fresh lemon, although you’re only allowed to juice one lemon per day. You’re also allowed to drink as much black coffee as you wish, sweetened with stevia. You can add milk to tea or coffee as long as you limit yourself to just 1 tablespoon per day.

 

 

SAFE "SWEETS" HCG DIET APPROVED RECIPES

 

Chocolate covered strawberries. Boxes of chocolate. Chocolate roses. How many classic romantic gestures revolve around chocolate?

It’s hard to imagine separating a romantic evening from sweets. But if you’re on the HCG Diet – or any diet – you might feel overwhelmed or even afraid at the prospect of an upcoming holiday. What will you do?

Relax – we’ve got it covered. Here are some HCG Diet approved recipes to make this Valentine’s the sweetest ever.

 

“Sugar” Dipped Strawberries

This one’s easy. Simply get a bowl of Trulicious and dip your strawberries in it. It’s beautifully simple and fun.

 

Strawberries and Cream (40 Cal)

Want a delicious, delightful, delectable treat to celebrate with someone you love? Then try this tasty HCG Diet approved (even for phase 2!) recipe.

Simple, sweet and delicious. This one’s easy.

  • 6 Fresh Strawberries (35 cal)
  • 1 Tsp Low Fat Milk (5 cal)
  • 2-4 injections Vanilla Creme Stevia (0 cal)
  • 1 Tsp Trulicious Powder (5 cal)

Slice the strawberries and toss with the remaining ingredients.

 

Chocolate Dream (89.2 cal)

Here’s a smooth chocolate treat to make your taste buds light up in pleasure.

  • 5 Ounces Low-fat Cottage Cheese (86 cal)
  • 1/4 Teaspoon Approved Cocoa Powder (3.2 cal)
  • Chocolate Flavored Stevia, to Taste (0) cal
  • Garnish with Mint Leaves (0cal)

Mix everything together into a delicious, creamy treat. Who says dieting has to be bland?

 

 

HCG Diet Approved Ice Cream (129 Cal)

Wait – ice cream on the HCG Diet? Yep.

  • 6 Frozen Strawberries (35 cal)
  • Trulicious to Taste
  • 1 Tsp of Low Fat Milk (5 cal)
  • 1 Serving Cottage Cheese (86 cal)
  • 1-2 Injections Vanilla Extract (3 Cal)

 

Mix all ingredients together to desired consistency and texture. Enjoy!

You’ll notice these recipes all have something in common: nearly all of them use Trulicious powder instead of sugar or other sweeteners. Trulicious is guilt free, low calorie, safe for diabetics and more.

 

Chocolate Delight Recipe

 

Chocolate Delight - HCG- P2/P3/P4

 

For those on the HCG diet who crave chocolate!! Some love to have chocolate delight. Please be advised some find that they can eat this in P2 with no problem, while others cannot. If you're curious, about whether or not you can, try making a tiny amount (1 Tbs. coconut oil, 1 Tbsp. cocoa powder and stevia to meet your taste preference... The more cocoa powder, the more of a dark chocolate taste. Then weight yourself the next morning as usual if you experience a gain or a stall CD may not be right for you in P2.

 

1 C. cocoa 

1 C. Coconut Oil melted

8 packages Stevia

 

Fluff cocoa with a fork to break up any chunks. Add melted Coconut Oil mix in Stevia adding MORE or less depending on taste. In P3 &P4 you can also add Macadamia nuts, great for increasing Ketone’s.

 

Pour into Ice tray or really small wax paper containers allow it to freeze for at least 15 minutes to harden

 

PRODUCTS TO USE ON HCG

 

Oil and Lotions Alternatives- Why using the wrong lotion and/or hair oil can cost you in weight loss

 

I am definitely a lotions and potions person.  But understand that following this is not debatable if you want success. Your skin is the largest organ of your body. When you are on Phase 2, the HCG puts your body in a state of lypolysis and is searching for fat to burn. It will pull the oil in the lotion right through your skin instead of getting it from your fat reserves.  This is one of the first areas you should address if people are in a stall or think they have lost less than they should. There have been clients in a stall and later figured out they were getting oil from Neosporin, WD-40, Preparation H, sunscreen, vitamins and many other sources. When they stopped using it they started to lose weight again.

 

Mineral oil is ok since it does not absorb into the skin like regular oil does. Same guideline, no more than 2-3 Tab. daily. Mineral makeup, mascara, eye shadow and powders are fine but any oil based foundation is not. Lipstick is fine since it is usually wax. 

 

For lotion I did I use Johnson's baby gel.  It was quite greasy.  One of the members here told us about Cornhusker's lotion.  You may want to google that for more information.  Sometimes, I would use Suave lotion because it contains small amounts of mineral oil.  Corn Husker’s Lotion is also a great choice.

 

Just make sure you are reading labels. If you come across another no oil alternative that works, please let me know so I can share with everyone else.

 

Product Safe List

 

This list isn't all inclusive...there are other products we can use as well.  This is a start though.

 

Deodorants

Thai Stick, There deo stick, crystal deodorant (wet crystal and apply), baking soda

 

Lotions and Dry Skin: 

Coconut oil, plain mineral oil (has no nutritional value), most baby oils are mineral oils or try lotions/moisturizers with a mineral oil base.

 

 Eyelashes

Consider getting your eyelashes tinted to replace mascara, although most mascaras are not prohibited. Roux Lash and Brow Tint Kit in Brown and Black

  

Toothpaste

Tom's toothpaste, baking soda, spry toothpaste, baking soda Tom's of Maine

 

 

Soaps: 

Zest, Ivory and Dial, Jason’s, baking soda Zest Bath Soap

 

 

Face Soaps and makeup removers:

Jason’s products JASON Natural Satin Soap

 

STALLS

 

How to Break a Stall on Phase 2 of HCG

 

The definition of a stall on the HCG diet is NO weight loss of 3 or more consecutive days in a row. If you are just having slow weight loss we would not recommend doing a stall breaker.

 

If your weight loss stops on the HCG Diet, don’t panic. Keep in mind that plateaus on the HCG Diet are not uncommon, and if you stick to the HCG protocol they WILL pass.

 

Some HCG stalls can be explained (i.e. old weight set-points, time of month, ovulation, steroids, and sunburn), other plateaus cannot be explained, but all will pass if you stick to the HCG diet protocol.

 

There are two different ways to break a stall while on the HCG Diet- A Apple Day or A HCG Steak Day.

 

#1: For an apple day you can eat up to six apples through the day and drink water ONLY TO QUENCH YOUR THIRST through midnight of that day. Then, the next day, AFTER YOU WEIGH, you can begin drinking whatever you would like again, but NO apples. Then, at lunch, you can start your normal diet meals again.

 

#2: A Mini Steak Day is a term that was established by our sister company. It applies only to Phase 2 which is the Very Low Calorie Diet Phase of the DIY HCG diet. A Mini Steak Day consists of not eating anything until dinner (drink plenty of coffee, tea and water). For dinner you would have a 100 gram portion of steak with either one apple or one raw tomato. The reason you would do a Mini Steak Day during the VLCD is if you are stalled more than 3 days and you want to try and break the stall. A Mini Steak Day is not advised to be used every day just to reach your weight loss goal.

 

One of the two above options should help speed up your weight loss on the HCG diet. If you are having a lot of stalls during your round or cannot break a stall on the HCG diet you may want to speak to your HCG provider if see if you are taking effective HCG at the right dosage.

 

What is an Apple Day?

 

A weight-loss plateau occurs when a dieter has not lost any weight for several days. It is more likely to occur in the core phase (phase 2), and it can last as long as four to six days. When fat is lost quickly, the body may choose to fill its fat cells with water in anticipation of needing those cells later. Many dieters who are losing quickly using HCG injections are used to seeing daily losses on the scale and can become discouraged when the number does not move. To help the body shed the accumulated water and give the dieter peace of mind you may opt to do an "Apple Day."

 

Breakfast consists of unsweetened tea and no food, so an apple day begins at lunch and goes for 24 hours. It ends at lunch the following day. The primary restriction that is placed on an apple day was that it cannot be used on a day when the HCG injections are not taken. The diet plan continues without HCG injections at the end of a diet round for an additional three days. Therefore, an apple day cannot be used during the last three days of the diet.

 

On an apple day, a dieter continues to take the HCG injections but limits food and liquids to six large apples and water. Although the apples can be eaten at any time the dieter feels hungry throughout that 24-hour period, water should be limited to only what is needed to satisfy thirst. Many dieters feel satisfied from eating the apples and do not feel the need to drink any water. Since the plateau comes from water retention, the water is not required.

 

When the 500-calorie diet resumes at lunch the following day, the excess water does not return. Instead, dieters will continue losing pounds and inches as they did before. An HCG diet apple day can be a great plateau-buster and give you some peace of mind, so you know the diet is still working. 

 

What is an Egg Day?

 

During your maintenance stage, you MUST maintain your weight loss within 2 pounds of your last HCG dose.  The moment you are over the 2 pounds, you'll need to do a correction day.  You may choose an egg day or a steak day.  

Having an egg day can generate a 1-2 lb loss the next day.  Unlike the Steak Day you can eat all day long, but only eggs.  No fruits or vegetables allowed.   Eggs are the most balanced protein and fat available and is a natural diuretic.   You are allowed to add mayonnaise, butter, cheese and sugar free relish.  Eggs whites are better.  You may mix it up with boiled eggs throughout the day with some yolk included, egg salad for lunch and a big omelet for dinner.  You can also have deviled eggs or poached eggs.  Eggs should be around 8-12 eggs for the day. 

 

 

What is a Steak Day?

 

Throughout your maintenance, if you weigh yourself and find that you are even 2 ounces over your 2 pound allowance, you MUST do a steak day that very same day.  Basically, you will not eat anything all day until dinner, but drink plenty of water.  Then for dinner, have a large steak cooked in oil or butter, with an apple or tomato.  By the next morning, you should see your weight drop back within the 2 pound allowance.

 

I had to do a steak day twice during maintenance, but I realized it was because I wasn't drinking enough water. DRINK, DRINK, DRINK!!

 

 

Detox Bath

 

  1. If you have been on a 3 day stall and hope to avoid an apple or cantaloupeday. Any weight loss that comes with a detox bath is usually water weight and can come right back – however, it can also be enough to get the scale moving again.
  2. Rarely, during the first week of the program, while your body goes through a detox process, a rash can occur. It is not related to the injections, but due to the toxins being released in your system as you are burning fat for fuel. Drinking plenty of water will help flush these out as well.

While some HCG dieters have seen great results, we have also had many that it hasn’t worked for. You can try it out and see how you do.

In as hot of water as you can stand, add:

  • 1 cup Epsom salts
  • 1 cup sea salt
  • 1/2 cup baking soda
  • 1 cup peroxide
  • 1 cup apple cider vinegar

Soak in it for 20 minutes then rinse in a cool shower.

Remember – it may help, or it may not. While it could get the scale moving again and help to get rid of toxins in your system, we don’t recommend doing these more then once a week; doing so would put you at a higher risk of dehydration – and as we know, hydration is a huge key to success on the program. While taking the bath, and throughout the day of the bath, drink plenty of water to keep hydrated and to help your body excrete the toxins.

 

Cali Kicker- Cayenne powder mixed in warm lemon water, or cayenne capsules taken by with warm lemon water and Stevia

 

 


 

RECIPES

 

 

HCG SALAD DRESSING

 

Here are some tasty salad dressings you can use to get the taste you desire for your salads.  Make it fun and change up your dressing daily for something to look forward to!  *Remember to drink water

 

T= Tablespoon

t = Teaspoon

 

Vinaigrette Dressing

1/4c apple cider vinegar

1/2c water

2 shakes celery salt

2 shakes onion salt

Ground pepper to taste

20 or more injections clear stevia

Combine ingredients, refrigerate

 

Italian Dressing

1/2c broth

2T apple cider vinegar

2T lemon juice

1t Italian herbs

2T minced onion

1/2t garlic powder

1/2t onion powder

Heat in a saucepan 5 minutes.

 

Lemon Dressing

1/4c apple cider vinegar

1 c water

1T fresh lemon juice

25 injections stevia

 

Citrus Dressing

1/4c apple cider vinegar

1c water

1T lemon juice

15 injections clear stevia

10 injections Apricot Nectar stevia (you can switch the flavors out)

1/4t Chinese Five Spice (optional)

1/4t garlic salt (optional)

 

Dill Dressing

1/3c apple cider vinegar

2T water

2T basil

2T dill

1t garlic powder

1t dry mustard

1t onion powder

 

 

Savory Dill Dressing/Marinade

Fresh dill minced

2 tablespoons lemon juice

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

2 tablespoon chicken or vegetable broth

½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning mix

Salt and pepper to taste

 

Tarragon Vinegar Infusion

¼ cup apple cider vinegar

Fresh tarragon

Combine vinegar with fresh tarragon in a lidded jar. Crush or roll the

Tarragon slightly to release the flavor. Allow flavors to infuse into the

Vinegar overnight or up to a week. Use as a marinade for fish or as the base for a dressing.

Add salt and pepper to taste.

 

 

Citrus Ginger Dressing/Marinade

1 tablespoon lemon juice

2 tablespoons orange juice

1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon Bragg’s liquid aminos

Ginger fresh or ground to taste

Salt and fresh black pepper to taste

Stevia to taste

 

Tomato Basil Vinaigrette

3 tablespoons tomato paste

3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

2 tablespoons lemon juice

¼ cup water, chicken or vegetable broth

1 tablespoon minced onion

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon dried basil or fresh rolled and sliced basil leaves to taste

1/8 teaspoon oregano

Cayenne pepper to taste

Stevia to taste

Bring to a boil slightly.

 

Another Vinaigrette

½ cup chicken or vegetable broth2 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 teaspoon organic Italian herb spice blend

2 tablespoons finely minced onion

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

Heat for 5 minutes

 

Sweet Wasabi Dipping Sauce/Marinade

¼ teaspoon wasabi powder or to taste (Japanese horseradish)

2 or more tablespoons Bragg’s liquid aminos

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Stevia to taste

 French Dressing

¼ cup beef broth

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 clove garlic crushed and minced

¼ teaspoon horseradish or to taste

½ teaspoon paprika

1/8 teaspoon mustard powder

Cayenne pepper to taste

Stevia to taste

Heat slightly to combine

 

Sweet and Spicy Mustard Dressing

2 tablespoons homemade mustard

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 tablespoon Bragg’s liquid aminos

Pinch of turmeric

1 clove garlic finely minced

1 tablespoon minced onion

Stevia to taste

Water to desired consistency

Heat slightly

 

Lemon Pepper Marinade

4 tablespoons lemon juice

3 tablespoons chicken or vegetable broth

Salt and black pepper to taste

Stevia to taste (optional)

 

Sweet Mustard Dill Dressing

1 tbsp French's Yellow Mustard

2 to 3 tbsp water

Liquid stevia to taste

Sprinkle of dried dill weed

 

 

SOUP RECIPES

 

Chicken Meatball Soup 

Meatballs

100 grams ground chicken breast

1 teaspoon minced onion

1 clove garlic crushed and minced

Pinch of sage

Pinch of marjoram

Pinch of thyme

Dash of onion powder

Dash of garlic powder

1 serving Melba toast crumbs (optional)

Broth

2 cups chicken broth (or substitute 1 cup water for 1 cup broth)

2 tablespoons Bragg’s liquid aminos

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Chopped celery or tomato

1 tablespoon chopped onion

2 cloves garlic crushed and minced

1 bay leaf

Cayenne pepper to taste

Salt and pepper to taste 

Combine ground chicken breast with spices, chopped garlic, onion, and crushed Melba toast. Form into balls. Bring broth to a boil; add spices, vinegar, Bragg’s liquid aminos, and chicken balls. Reduce to a simmer and cook a minimum of 30 minutes adding the celery or tomato the last 5-10 minutes of cooking.

Makes 1 serving (1 protein, 1 vegetable, 1 Melba toast) 

 

 

Italian Wedding Soup

 1/2 c. diced onions as a flavor enhancer

Minced garlic to taste

6 cups of broth

4 cups chopped spinach

1 lb. meatballs

1 tsp each of thyme, oregano, basil and any other Italian spice that you like

Salt and pepper

Chopped parsley

Lemon rind

Minced garlic

 

Add onions, garlic and 1/4 cup of broth to a small soup pot. Cook until onions start to wilt. Add spinach and stir until spinach starts to wilt. Add spices and herbs. Stir until liquid is almost cooked off. Add meatballs and rest of broth. Bring to a boil. Boil for a few minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste. This can be served with a small helping of gremolata. Gremolata can be made with chopped parsley, lemon rind and minced garlic.

Serves 4