HCG
Below you’ll find some visitor comments on HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin). If you’d like to post comments on your own experiences with HCG, you can do that too!
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Sally on 19 Jan 2008 at 9:35 am #
It is my understanding that the HCG injections are there to preserve the muscle so that a VLCD (very low calorie diet) can be followed effectively, utilizing highly nutritious but very low fat foods.
The diet is key to the program, as it encourages the body fat to be used as fuel. Under a doctor’s care, an appetite suppressant is also prescribed so that a VLCD can be tolerated long term.
This program is done in 8-week intervals, with three weeks off between cycles. Exercise is encouraged. I started five weeks ago with about 100 lb. to lose, and in that time have lost 17 lb. so far.
Colleen on 07 Mar 2008 at 11:43 am #
Having taken mood stabilizers and antidepressants for about 3 years now, my metabolism has changed rapidly, considering I eat healthy and instruct and coach 13 intense muscle strengthening programs per week! I gained 18kg in this period of time – and no, I did not eat more than usual, no lies.
I became desperate and completely adament to discover a cure for this. So I found the Dr. Simeons Manuscript and yes, for the first time in my life ever, I went on a diet.
I injected myself everyday, except Sundays, for 40 days and did exactly as Dr Simeons suggested, and I LOST EXACTLY AS HE SAID ONE WOULD. What an incredibly mind blowing experience, the fat melted away. It was phenomenal. But, I will add, it is only for those who REALLY WANT TO LOSE FAT.
You only do what is really important to you and this was. How can a healthy person who gets others to lose weight successfully, just gain weight? – it’s bizarre.
I practice what I preach and for some reason I felt extremely punished and cursed. I just couldn’t lose weight and I new that it was simply ludicrous to add more exercise to such a hectic training schedule.
If you do the program, exactly as Dr Simeons (NOT TRUDUEA) prescribed, you’ll have success. Read the entire document, and please, don’t try to follow other methods. Dr Simeons spent his life researching and succesfully curing people of their lament. DO AS HE SAYS – YOU WON’T REGRET IT.
cindy on 15 Mar 2008 at 11:37 am #
I went on the HCG injections for 10 weeks, and I did lose about 20 1bs — maybe because i am older 56) and less active.
I have found with HCG that you mostly lose in inches than pounds. The only drawback with this program is,you may as well lay on the couch the first two weeks as you are too weak to exercise.
Carol Ann on 08 Apr 2008 at 5:01 pm #
I have been on hCG injections for the previous past 2 months (Jan. & Feb.) and lost 35 lbs. consuming 800 – 1000 calories a day, and no simple carbs. I also walked most days.
My Dr. stopped giving hCG this mo (March), and I have found it very hard to even stay on my diet this mo. Amazingly – I have not gained any weight, even though I have overate.
I miss the content and full feeling that the hCG gave me. I will be finding another Dr. who gives hCG. I have 35 more lbs. to go before my target weight.
TJ in AZ on 03 Jun 2008 at 2:01 am #
HCG? It helps! It supports! It works! It is not the cure-all, but it is a tool to help you accomplish a very difficult task. Is it easy? No. But nothing is… Happy Living to you!
barb on 31 Jul 2008 at 4:42 pm #
I recently started the HCG injections 7 days ago and was following the 500-800 calorie intake and gained 3lbs. I was very discouraged, so I did a little research on low calorie diets vs low carb diets and was amazed that low carb diets are so much healthier for you.
The huge intake of carbs is responsible for my additional weight gain, so check out the foods your consuming and look at the the carbs!
On such a low cal intake you’re losing muscle mass. I will continue to use the HCG as it promotes fatigue and helps burn fat and promotes good sleep. Please do your research.
My initial weight gain problem is because I abused carbs. So why do I want to take in a high level of them, my Dr. who is promoting this diet had no answers for me.
Wish me luck and good luck to you all.
Marie on 10 Sep 2008 at 4:35 pm #
I have just finished my first week of HCG shots and lost 6 pounds. In the past I’ve tried everything, including starving myself – nothing has worked as this has. The first few days are rough, I must admit, but as of yesterday, no hunger pains, loads of energy and I have followed Dr. Simeons plan to the T.
I am not one to rule out Placebo effect but if it works more power to me! Phase 3 of the plan seems to make sense, looks healthy and pretty easy to follow.
Compared to all the diet junk that’s out there including the weight loss programs that scam you into buying their products and the hundreds of dollars you can dish out, I think HCG ( and I paid 100.00 through my doctor)is a small price to pay.
On the other hand I would never go through some one like Kevin Trudeau to pay for something like this, His prices are crazy! He is definitely making a huge profit.
My advice is to find a “real” doctor who will support you in this.
Penny on 03 Oct 2008 at 12:35 pm #
If you do this EXACTLY as prescribed, including the load on the first 2 days, it works! I, like most other single moms in my late 30’s have that spare tire thing and I just got sick of it! I have been on this diet and the injections for one week and I have lost 10 pounds. I am sleeping all night, I am not tired and after the first two days, the hunger went away. Low fat and low carbs (what this diet basically is)and reading labels will help you lose weight anyway, but from my understanding, you would never make it on 500 cals a day without the HCG. Believe it or not, I am actually full after a meal. I can’t even eat it all and always save my fruit for a snack. It is not expensive to try the protocol. I have invested less than $100 and am doing it myself, not at a clinic. I talked with my OB first and he couldn’t find any negatives, aside from the usual internet bad-mouthing from folks who have never tried it or tried it and did it wrong!!
My suggestion? Just print the Simeon’s protocol-Trudeau adds too much stuff, and try it. If it doesn’t work, you probably have wasted no more money or time than you would have on any other diet
lisa on 14 Oct 2008 at 4:15 pm #
I’ve gotten through my third day of HCG dieting. My mom and I have been using the sublinqual method (not injections). Just as Simeon promised, I’m losing 1 pound a day.
When you see the results on the scale, that alone motivates you. 500 cal per day is hard but the HCG has to be curbing my appetite or I would be a crazy woman.
My wonderful mom helped me prepare for the diet. I’m a 10 hr/day manager with a husband and 6 y/o so she knew it was going to be tough for me to make it happen.
She prepared menus with the calories already counted. We weighed and prepared a lot of my meat ahead of time and froze it so I could just grab it for lunch and go.
Would highly recommend this strategy. Best of luck to the other dieters.
Gemma on 24 Oct 2008 at 4:55 pm #
I’ve used HCG before and I lost about 100 lbs from it. I swear by it. I found a doctor around my area who at the time was giving the injections for a reasonable price and at the time I honestly didn’t know that this was illegal for weight loss purposes in the US.
I had been over weight my whole life. I can remember being 5 and being a “fat girl” ever since I went to this doctor and took HCG.
I lost 18 pounds in the first 2 weeks I took it and it only took me 3 months to loose 77 lbs.
Unfortunately the doctor who was giving these shots to me and many others, got in serious trouble for distributing this HCG to his patients. He was taken to court by one patient of his and had to give up his license and eventually he decided to retire.
This broke my heart that a man who brought me to life and made me more healthy and happy, had to give up what he loved to do – helping people loose weight and live happy lives.
Its been about 7 years since I last went to that doctor for the HCG injections.
I cannot understand why they distribute all these other “weight loss” pills and diets and even some of these surgeries, claiming that you will loose so much weight and keep it off. None of it works but the FDA won’t approve HCG for weight loss.
I can’t wait for this to finally get approved.
I myself will be undergoing weight loss surgery and I don’t even think that’s as effective as the HCG.
sharlene on 14 Nov 2008 at 9:19 am #
I took HCG shots, through my doctor, only once a week. Made sure to get 30g protein within the 1st 3 hours of waking up, (she also added phentermine to help curb appetite for the 1st month or so).
I followed a 800-1000 calorie diet for 2 weeks then went 1000-1200 calories for one week. In 3 months I lost almost 40 lbs. I found my miracle.
I have hypothyroid (very low) and could not lose those last 50 lbs since having my 3rd baby (at 38 years old) I definitely lost more inches than lbs.
I am 6′2″ and weigh 195 lbs, but wear a size 12 and am very happy with that. Even at 180lbs (15 years ago, I was a size 14) I can’t take the phentermine any more since I just quit working. I stopped the shots for 3 months, to “test” if I would gain the weight back. Only gained 3lbs so started the shots again over a month ago. Lost the 3 lbs, but nothing like when I first started the program. Can’t complain.
I haven’t weighed below this in 15 years, so it really worked great for me! SO many of my friends are doing excellent with it too! (40-80lbs in <6 months) Feel like I’m 20 again!
Adrianne on 30 Dec 2008 at 9:43 pm #
I love the HCG this has been the only thing that has worked for me, I cant believe it. My first week I lost 7 pounds.
Kay on 03 Jan 2009 at 4:15 pm #
I am planning to try the HCG diet next week. I am trying to find out more about how HCG is extracted from the urine or the placenta and what risks that may include – similar to blood transfusions?
I assume it is important that there are no medical issues going on for the donor. Has anyone else been concerned about this? What have you found out?
Penny on 12 Jan 2009 at 5:55 pm #
I am on my 2nd round, but only 23 days this time. I lost 18 pounds the first time back in October. I have a small heart issue so I cannot take “diet drugs”. I figure if my female body made the HCG during my pregnancy, what the heck…can’t hurt to try it.
This has been the best thing I could have done!! I have not weighed under 180 in 10 years. I have stayed within a couple of pounds of my ideal weight, but doughnuts and chips will make you fat!
My fault for not weighing daily after phase 3, and for eating doughnuts.
I sleep better, I am awake and alert (not the “speedy jittery” alert!), and after the first few days the hunger goes away.
In fact, after the first couple of weeks it is hard to stomach all the calories in a day. I have never felt better.
It has been a great learning experience-you will learn to read everything you buy and become more aware of what kind of JUNK is in a lot of food. My family eats most things now that are all natural with no preservatives.
My only suggestion to anybody who wants to try it is to find some recipes on the internet… the actual diet food is very boring. The shipping is usually a bit slow on the meds, so start early with that part!
Do your research-the positive feedback on this FAR outweighs the negative.
Charmain on 08 May 2008 at 12:18 pm #
I am currently on my fourth day of 500 calories with the HCG injections. The first 2 days were so tough, I almost quit every hour. My third day went a lot smoother – I started feeling alert and full of energy. The only reason I haven’t quit as yet is due to the rapid weight loss.
The past 1 and a half months have been incredibly busy at work, and as a result I stopped exercising and the weight just piled on. Add to this mixture the affects of winter and wanting more comfort foods, I couldn’t keep the weight off. I felt terrible about letting myself go.
So, I decided to try the HCG after my mom and sister had successfully lost weight on it, and amazingly kept it off even after following their previous eating patterns.
After the 2 days of gorging, I weighed in at 65.4 kgs the Monday morning. Tuesday morning I weighed in at 64.7 kgs. Wednesday I weighed 63.9 kgs. I have to add, I had such a craving for coffee, and even though you are permitted coffee, milk is not allowed and I get nauseous from drinking black coffee. SO Wednesday I decided to have one cup of coffee with low fat milk and sweetener – and couldn’t wait to see what affect it would have on my weight today, Thursday.
Today I weighed in at 63 kg’s. Feels good. Had another coffee with milk today, so I’ll have to see again tomorrow if this has an affect on my weight loss.
The restrictive nature of this diet is truly tiresome. I know its not desirable, but I might not stay on it for much longer, and rather follow the traditional route of healthy, balanced eating and exercise. I feel like I’m punishing myself right now.
But heck, the weight loss feels good, but I don’t really approve of the instant gratification, don’t know if this is psychologically a good approach in the long run…..
Editor’s Comments: A 500 calorie diet is more than restrictive – it can hardly be considered either a “safe” or “practical” approach to weight loss (the minimum “safe” caloric limit for women is around 800-1200 calories, depending on a few factors).
Additionally, a large percentage of weight loss will be comprised of muscle mass. This is not desirable, since muscle is metabolically active tissue and contributes to an elevated metabolism. This makes it more likely the weight will come back faster than ever when you go off this diet… which you must at some point.
Deven on 25 Jul 2008 at 5:56 pm #
I am going to start doing HCG treatment soon. I watched four people do it with amazing results. They have all kept the weight off. They have changed their diets, but it has been amazing to watch them shrink.
My sister was 187 and lost 42 pounds in just eight weeks. She was following the manuscripts but was only in taking 300 calories a day.
My mom followed the same diet and lost 35 pounds and is about to start her second cycle. I have no clue how the FDA can say this treatment does not work. I would not suggest lowering your calorie intake to that level but they both only experienced a little hunger that was satisfied by drinkig water.
Editor’s Comments: 300 calories a day? Of course you’re going to lose weight… but how much of that is going to lean muscle — tissue that always burns calories and elevates the metabolism? How could you possibly cover your basic nutritional needs at that level? Franky, we think this sounds highly unsafe, and possibly dangerous.
By the way, it’s not the FDA that says HCG doesn’t work, it’s a whole number of peer-reviewed clinical studies. Fact is, if you only consume 300 calories per day, you will lose weight — with or without HCG.
Dave Warkentine on 05 Jan 2009 at 10:01 am #
The guy who says it doesn’t work and to save your money does not know what he’s talking about and I’ll bet he never tried hCG.
My wife and I both went on the Semiens Protocol for six months and I lost 67 pounds and she lost 45 pounds.
Over the course of 18 months I’ve lost 90 pounds on the Protocol and kept it off!
I truly believe that it works.
Editor’s comments: Any HCG diet we reviewed will work simply because of the massive caloric restriction. Existing clinical data does not support the claim that HCG aids in weight loss (see the full review for more details).
margie on 15 Apr 2009 at 10:38 pm #
I really could care less about all the negative “studies” regarding hcg. For those of us who are experiencing the weight loss, that is what matters!
I have a multitude of chronic health problems-severe chronic fatigue syndrome, mal-absorption syndrome, chronic back/leg pain from an injury/surgery, to name a few. I had gained a huge amount of weight, and had no luck losing it. Tried the hcg and lost 12.6# in 22 days. From the forum I visited, this was on the low end- but I was 3 for 3 in regards to the things that make hcg not work quite as well- female, long hx of taking thyroid medication, and long hx of prescription medications.
I know that it wasn’t just the 500 calorie diet, because I had no hunger while on the shots. And for the past 3 weeks I have eaten as much as I want, including fat, as long as I stayed away from sugar and starch. I not only haven’t gained any weight back, but have continued to lose a little. I’m not a Kevin Trudeau fan for many reasons, but this has been used around the world successfully, and I personally have communicated with enough people in the past 7 weeks to know it isn’t a fluke.
Editor’s comments: Margie, we’d suggest clinical studies are important. In large part, they prevent well-established crooks like Mr. Trudeau from continuing to pull the wool over the eyes of consumers. As we’ve stated, anyone consuming 500 calories per day is going to lose weight. The studies show that HCG makes no difference over a placebo (in other words, individuals taking a placebo and sticking to a 500 calorie attain exactly the same benefits). One study states…
“Injections of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) have been claimed to aid in weight reduction by reducing hunger, and affecting mood as well as aiding in localized (spot) reduction. We have tested these claims in a double-blind randomized trial using injections of HCG or placebo. Weight loss was identical between the two groups, and there was no evidence for differential effects on hunger, mood or localized body measurements. Placebo injections, therefore, appear to be as effective as HCG in the treatment of obesity.”
The fact that you’ve haven’t gained anything back is no validation of HCG effectiveness either; you’ve indicated that you’ve implemented an Atkins-style diet (no carbs or sweets) which is actually very good for weight maintenance. While we’re happy you’ve lost the weight you wanted, your experience is not a clinical validation of the effectiveness of HCG.
Visitor Rating:FatLossChronicles on 19 Apr 2009 at 11:38 am #
I tried the HCG Diet, and documented everything on my blog. I documented all the numbers, including fat loss vs. lean body mass.
http://fatlosschronicles.blogspot.com
In short, I did drop weight very quickly. However, 41% of the weight was lean body mass! This diet does not target just fat, as claimed. Become educated about what HCG will do to your body before trying it!
Visitor Rating:Jenn on 02 May 2009 at 6:30 pm #
I have struggled with my weight for over 20 years and since I was a child ~ I have lost over 100 pounds with this protocol!!! It’s simply been a blessing and miracle for me. It is possible to not lose weight on such a low calorie diet itself because the body goes into starvation mode.
It’s also important to note that although you are only taking in 500 calories a day, your body it utilizing much more than that via the abnormally stored fat. Also, Dr. Simeons DID do studies, and he worked on this protocol for many, many years ~ his manuscript is “Pounds & Inches”.
Also, if you’ve lost lean muscle ( I did at first), then you need to add a bit more protein throughout the day, so the blood sugars do not yo-yo & go up and down so much ~ When Dr. Simeons did the studies, there was not the epidemic and issue of diabetes/hormone issues that there is today.
To the editor: You mentioned “Injections of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) have been claimed to aid in weight reduction by reducing hunger, and affecting mood as well as aiding in localized (spot) reduction. We have tested these claims in a double-blind randomized trial using injections of HCG or placebo. Weight loss was identical between the two groups, and there was no evidence for differential effects on hunger, mood or localized body measurements. Placebo injections, therefore, appear to be as effective as HCG in the treatment of obesity.”
I would appreciate the knowledge of where I can find information and specifics on this study. The statement you gave says nothing of the specific dosing or specific diet of the study. And what is reported of “clinical trials/studies” is often VERY deceiving!
Editor’s comments: The statement we gave is an except of a study, which we linked to – you can find it here. It’s the conclusion of the study. You may need to pay for the full thing. You may also want to check out “The effect of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) in the treatment of obesity by means of the Simeons therapy: a criteria-based meta-analysis“, which concludes…
“…there is no scientific evidence that HCG is effective in the treatment of obesity; it does not bring about weight-loss of fat-redistribution, nor does it reduce hunger or induce a feeling of well-being.”
(End of editor’s comments).
Again, I have battled with my weight since I was 8 ~ I’m now 31! From August to March I lost over 100 pounds!!! (with a few breaks in there) The HCG protocol really works IF you follow it. I consider myself my own personal ‘clinical study’ with all of the things I’ve done over the years, and in my results, this HCG protocol is the “winner!”
Visitor Rating:Ben Gonzalez, MD on 07 May 2009 at 12:25 am #
Well, I am posting this risking professional ridicule (but not afraid). Why do I say that? Because I am a traditionally trained, board certified MD physician who, when I first heard about the hCG protocol for weight loss used the words “stupid, dumb fad diet, unsafe, gross negligence” in describing my initial response to the HCG protocol to a family member who wanted me to prescribe hCG to them for the purpose of losing weight. Then they told me they already did it once, lost 35 lbs in 39 days, kept the weight off, felt good doing it, and wanted to lose more. And felt great doing the VLC protocol. So I looked into it. After I did I still thought the same thoughts concerning the “diet.” Why? Because I made the same mistake every other traditionally trained health professional does when looking at the protocol. I looked at it from a narrow minded view. “It’s not FDA approved, anyone can lose weight on 500 Kcalories a day, there are no studies proving it, you can’t live on 500 calories, anecdotal reports are worthless, etc.” First thing you see when you google hcg weight loss are either scam marketing ads for it or traditional reviews with negative responses. Of course you would think this is a “bad fad diet.” Until I kept looking.
And I spoke with individuals who succeeded and those who didn’t and I looked closer to the reasons why. I also stepped away from my own traditional bias and tried to open my mind to the protocol. I read the studies. Some legitimate, others not so much. All small and old. And yes, the Kevin Trudeau book and marketing push is one big scam to make money off of things not related to the protocol. That does not make the protocol unsafe or ineffective. Then I supervised actual patients with strict adherence to the original Dr Simeon’s protocol. And guess what, I found success in small numbers. Remarkable success. And I do not mean in just weight loss. In fact, it turns out it is not the weight loss that is the success of the protocol, rather the ability to be self aware in keeping the weight off. Yes, all anecdotal. Over 200 patients and counting.
Yes, there are failures. I can count them on one hand. Yes, anyone can lose weight on 500 calories, but can anyone actually do 500 calories for 39 days and feel great? A myth concerning this protocol is that you live off 500 calories. Actuality is that you live off the 500 calories you ingest PLUS the calories you burn from your fat and the nutrition that is released from the fat you burn. Another myth: Fat only stores fat soluble vitamins. Nope. Fat stores many other minerals and hormones and in fact, is part of the endocrine system in making certain hormones. So as you burn fat it releases nutrition that your body uses for metabolism. Another fact ignored: Did you know the hCG hormone is similar to thyroid hormone and acts to stimulate the thyroid? This is a generalization but an accurate one. I do not know exactly how this relates to weight loss and I do not think anyone does. However, I am willing to bet this is part of the reason why it works in this protocol.
I am traditionally trained, extremely skeptical but not cynical, healthy in my skepticism of all medicine whether FDA approved or not (remember Vioxx, Sledane. Baycol, Zelnorm, Fen-Phen?). I find it interesting that the FDA will approve a procedure that has a 300 plus people a year death rate (gastric bypass) not to mention a very high co-morbidity (associated problems) rate and physicians who will approve of this procedure. Yet, place a “black box” on hCG saying no approval for weight loss when there has been ZERO noted issues in over 50 years in hCG use in weight loss. The “extensive studies” that are cited on both sides of the argument are very small studies (Greenway, etc.) and old and are equivocal when they are all looked at together. No study follows up on long term weight loss. Another interesting note is it is well documented that hCG is safe at 100 times the amount used for weight loss. Why no large studies? Because there is no money to be made in a generic medication. Why don’t I do a large study? Because it costs money and I am unable to get a grant to do so. No pharmaceutical will give money for a large study again, because there is no money to be made. If I found/developed a synthetic and patentable hCG then money would be available.
Another commonly stated argument against the hCG Protocol: Kevin Trudeau. Unfortunately this is a flawed argument. Just because Kevin Trudeau has been fined and is a scam artist does not make the hCG protocol ineffective. The hCG protocol is not his. It was not developed by him. He just found it, wrote a book and sells unrelated items that he says is “required for the diet to work” but has nothing to do with the protocol. That is the scam. By the way. On this Ultimatefatburner.com negative review page there are multiple links to purchasing hCG for weight loss and to find hCG weight loss clinics. Does this make this review a scam or invalid? No. (Note to the editors, practice what you preach).
Editor’s note: Dr. Gonzalez, I’m sure you’re well aware of the difference between editorial copy and advertising. Until publishers in any medium are exempted from paying rent, for clothing, food, and so on, there will always appear to be an apparent conflict of interest between the material presented and advertising. Fact is, it occurs in every publishing industry, and is an unfortunate, yet necessary part of life. Please recognize the difference. (End of editor’s comments.)
The hCG is not for everybody. It is not a “weight loss cure” and it must be physician directed and supervised. It cannot be applied to the general public as many diets are. A full health evaluation is imperative prior to beginning such a diet. I have saved many from gastric bypass, been able to get diabetics off their medications, get patients off blood pressure meds, antidepression meds, and cholesterol meds because of this protocol. Anecdotal? Yes. Ineffective? No. Need larger studies? Yes.
As a side note, my clinic is not an hCG only weight loss clinic but I do use hCG for weight loss in a very selective patient population to help them avoid gastric bypass or other unsafe weight loss substitutes.
Ben Gonzalez, MD
Medical Director
Atlantis Medical Wellness Center
Editor’s comments: Thank you very much for your comments, Dr. Gonzalez. We always appreciate it when a qualified professional weighs in with his (or her) opinion. Regarding the studies cited; they may be old (not all are small – like this one, for instance), but they are the only ones we have. Our job here is to balance the advertising claims with the evidence – and to date, published evidence does not show HCG in a great light. When you consider that the supplement industry had a long and sordid history of making unsubstantiated claims in order to fleece consumers, we are highly skeptical of those who make arguments contrary to what is borne out by existing evidence. Especially when they have a huge financial incentive to do so, no real scientific evidence to base that argument upon, and occasionally, a shady background (case in point, Mr Kevin Trudeau).
That does not mean that new, larger scale studies on HCG will show different, more beneficial results. And we’ll be happy to revise our conclusion on HCG… but only when we have some peer-reviewed data to base that revision on. But until then, we have to rely on the only evidence we have.
It would be fantastic if you used your own clinic as a “testing ground”, and wrote up and published your results in a qualified peer-reviewed journal.
Visitor Rating:Ben Gonzalez, MD on 11 May 2009 at 9:47 pm #
Dear Editor,
You are correct concerning the general motives of the supplemental industry. And you are certainly correct concerning the ability of that industry to “fleece” consumers (selling DHEA and other supplements that are not bioavailable , all the ‘must have vitamins to prolong life’ ads that exist, high anti-oxidant drinks that cost $60 a bottle, ect.). The FDA, much needed and useful as it is, does not have a perfect record of review. Not anywhere near perfect. True balance needs to be impartial and truly objective. Your reviews seem skewed. Example of that is the persistent citation of Trudeau as a scam artist as a reason for hCG ineffectiveness in your reviews and in your response to my comments. He is most definitely a scam artist. However, that is independent of the hCG protocol. The published data to date concerning hCG is not only small and old (I agree, that doesn’t mean it is invalid), but truly equivocal. It does not establish the effectiveness or lack thereof concerning the hCG protocol. And just because it is published doesn’t mean it is truth. The Vioxx fiasco is the best recent example (still reading about it in today’s news).
I want to make it clear, I do not believe the claims made by “hCG Weight Loss Centers” are valid. Especially the ones using oral hCG. Nor do I believe the hCG protocol is for the general population. It is not. It can be for a select few and it MUST be medically supervised. In my very small population I have found amazing success in individuals who have tried multiple mainstream protocols and have failed. I have saved individuals from gastric bypasses (an FDA approved procedure with published data, a death rate and significant co-morbidity) and been able to get long term diabetics off their medications solely due to the hCG protocol. Most definitely anecdotal. It is my overall belief that the hCG protocol does not work for the general population. That it is effective in a select population that has underlying sub acute endocrine issues (I am being very general here because this is not the forum for detailed physiologic discussion) that prevent traditional approach to weight loss. None of the old literature addresses what I have mentioned. I am building data but my hCG population is too small to be effective anytime soon.
Just a few more comments: Those individuals who have found success in the hCG protocol in my opinion, likely have an underlying metabolic or endocrine issue that is unrecognized. These individuals truly find success where other diets (this is NOT a diet, rather a protocol) and protocols have failed. There must be a full evaluation of the endocrine system along with all the other usual labs obtained in a regular physical exam. Then those results must be evaluated by a physician who understands how to interpret beyond the “normal ranges” reported by the labs.
Weight loss is a struggle for many, the hCG protocol is for few of those many. There is a need for not just one study, but a few in order to determine if the hCG protocol is effective and for exactly what population it is effective. As I mentioned in a previous post, there is no money for a good large study anytime soon. For now, I do not recommend this protocol for the general population.
Overall, your editorial is very good and useful to the general public and I appreciate your comments. You can contact me through the clinic anytime if you come across other providers who may want to put an objective study together. Please keep at it!
Ben Gonzalez, MD
Medical Director
Atlantis Medical Wellness Center
http://www.atlantismedispa.com
Editor’s comments: Thanks once more for your comments, Dr Gonzalez. However, we do take issue with this comment; “True balance needs to be impartial and truly objective. Your reviews seem skewed.” If you read the full review of HCG here, you’ll find that our view of HCG is not based on Mr Trudeau’s character (as you say, the HCG protocol did not originate with him), but with the lack of clinical data validating HCG’s effectiveness over a placebo (you can check all the referenced published data in the full review). And ALL the studies are conclusive; it showed no benefit.
We aren’t running a weight loss clinic and using HCG on clients, so we’re not privy to the sort of insights with HCG that perhaps you have. Our job is to look at the existing data, compare it to the claims, and report on the results. That’s exactly what we did here. Looking at the published data, how could you come to any other conclusion? As you say yourself, even the positive results you have obtained are anecdotal. In other words, even you have no real evidence.
Dr Gonzalez, two last comments; first, this forum really is meant for folks to leave comments and feedback on various products. If you have any other comments, please do contact us directly. Second, we’ve integrated your follow up comments into this post for convenience.
Visitor Rating:Ben Gonzalez, MD on 14 May 2009 at 8:32 am #
Dear Editor,
A couple of quick notes:
“Dr Gonzalez, two last comments; first, this forum really is meant for folks to leave comments and feedback on various product.”
hCG is not just an over-the-counter product and I felt a physician’s perspective was warranted. It is a prescribed medication. This is one of the reasons why I felt compelled to comment. Also, the “full review” you refer to has a very large and highlighted part concerning Trudeau. A patient of mine brought this to my attention and stated to me that is the reason why he felt the hCG protocol was not safe. This is how your review came to my attention. This large and highlighted part of your review is a common thread in many blogs and reviews. This is what people many focus on. And that is why many individuals who have looked at this review fell it is skewed. The Trudeua highlight seems a large part of the reason for the review’s dissent. Just wanted to point that out.
As far as ‘published data,” you are correct. However, the studies are way too small and limited for absolute conclusions. As I mentioned, I agree with your final overall conclusions. I just want to clarify that the hCG protocol when selective and followed by a physician can be very effective and very safe. Safer than many alternatives such as gastric bypasses and more effective than many over the counter “diet pills and fads.” As you mentioned, this requires much more detailed discussion for another forum. Again, keep up the good work overall.
DrG
Visitor Rating:Tiffany on 29 May 2009 at 10:17 am #
i have used hcg a number of times, once being after having a baby and twice since. I understand and have read Dr.Simeon’s write up as well as Kevin’s book. I know there is a lot of controversy about it, but it has completely worked.
5 other people i know who have also done it, and without fail, they have results just as promised. I do feel extremely well when on it, it takes away my back pain from the result of a car accident, the late day tiredness where I would normally need to drink a coke, or take a nap. I feel satisfied, but you do miss eating what you want, and sometimes I crave things, but that doesn’t mean to say I am hungry.
I have recommended it to many people who have tried alternative weight loss and haven’t had success. It is very difficult and if you don’t have will power – don’t even try because it is very hard, but very very rewarding. I lost 20lbs the first time I did it in a 3 week program. I never gained any back. This is my body’s normal healthy body weight.
I have since gone on it, where I tried to lose all the “abnormal fat” I have. I lost another 11 lbs.
I have since gained that back due to unhealthy eating habits, and not following phase 4 of Kevin’s rules. I am happy to go on the diet once a year before summer to shed the last 10-15lbs. It has been the best thing I have ever found! My weight watcher and exercise freak friends who have bad eating habits and can’t kick the weight are jealous! I say to them “all you need to do is get some will power and you can look like me too” I LOVE HCG!
Visitor Rating:Fatfree1 on 09 Jun 2009 at 1:04 pm #
I have successfully used HCG to lose 100lbs in a 7 month period and have other friends who have lost between 25 and 80lbs while following the protocol. It is challenging to some but once those challenges are over come it is smooth sailing all the way to fat freedom. I continue to recommend HCG to anyone fighting the battle of the bulge.
HCG has also helped friends fighting gout, lupus, diabetes and high blood pressure. There are so many benefits to using it that it would put the drug companies out of business. Once you are able to cure a majority of the illnesses born from obesity then there is no need for them.
Editor’s comments: hCG IS considered a prescription drug, administered under the guidance of a licensed physician. How does using it put the drug companies out of business? That aside, did you realize that more and more, alternative herbal products are being manufactured by the “drug companies” you have so little respect for?
Visitor Rating:LISA ANN on 03 Jul 2009 at 12:41 am #
IM NOT HAVING ANY SUCSESS WITH THIS PRODUCT, AND I’M FOLLOWING THE PROTOCOL STRICTLY. THE FIRST COUPLE OF INJECTIONS, I LOSE 2 OR 3 POUNDS, AND THEN IT STOPS. WHAT AM I DOING WRONG? IS THERE ANYONE ELSE OUT THERE HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM? ANY SUGGESTIONS WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED.
Editor’s comments: Have you read the review of the hCG protocol, Lisa? It’s not that you’re doing anything wrong; clinical data shows it to be ineffective for weight loss.
Visitor Rating:Anna on 13 Jul 2009 at 11:48 am #
I am researching the sublingual form of HCG. I have problems understanding why, theoretically, HCG, if it does indeed preserve lean muscle mass as claimed, can’t do that at a higher calorie level, say 1000 to 1500 cals per day?
Also, I want to know if anyone on the protocol had their lean muscle mass measured before and after the protocol and what the results were of those measurements. And (finally!), I already have hair loss (I’m a 54 yo hypothyroidal, postmenopausal woman) and I want to know if anyone experienced hair loss from following this very low calorie diet. Thank you to anyone who can help me with information.
Editor’s comments: Anna, we hate to keep stepping in and raining on everyone’s parade, but the benefits attributed to hCG have not been demonstrated in any clinical study. Even worse, the evidence suggests otherwise. So regarding your question; there’s no evidence hCG protects lean mass. For more information, please see our full review.
Visitor Rating:David C. on 21 Jul 2009 at 5:27 pm #
I choose to disregard all of the editor’s comments, as they are repetitious and anemic. A low calorie eating regimine plus the HCG injections seem to work for the vast majority of people who have availed themselves of this particular weight loss method, much to the chagrin of the naysayers, even amid their findings that may say otherwise.
Editor’s comments: David, you need to read this blog post. We’d also be curious to find out what evidence you base the statement, “seems to work for the vast majority of people who have availed themselves of this particular weight loss method”? The feedback on this web site?
The fact is – as we pointed out in the review – low calorie diets DO work. This issue is that the evidence shows very low calorie diets + hCG do not outperform the low calorie diets on their own.
David, we run a consumer advocate site. Our job is to evaluate the evidence and report on that. There’s no evidence hCG “works” at all, although the hCG protocol (hCG + very low calorie diet + one on one personal monitoring) will definitely work – if only for the diet and personal accountability element. You are free to ignore our comments as you wish; it’s YOUR money. Our job is to report on the facts, and we’ve done that.
Visitor Rating:Leslie on 28 Jul 2009 at 2:59 am #
I have been taking HCG. I received from a naturopath and in 20 days I have lost 14 lbs. It was 2 lbs a day until I started eating some sugar. I don’t feel hungry. It is work to eat like this, but it is working.
Visitor Rating:Stella on 28 Jul 2009 at 11:23 am #
Hi, I have been on HCG diet for 11 day and lost 11 lbs. It does work!! It is teaching me portion control. I have followed the protocol exactly as Dr. S. prescribed. My injections were issued under a doctor also in my area. I think there is so much bad publicity about this eating plan because the diet industry in this nation is raking in huge profits. No pun intended here.
For the price of HCG and its results, you can’t go wrong. I have spent many dollars on other diet plans and never succeeded. I always say, “Walk in another man’s shoes before judging him/her.” Maybe the editor should try it for him/herself for 10 days before writing any negativity about the plan.
Editor’s comments: Stella, are you actually “hearing” what we’re saying? First of all, those prescribing the hCG protocol ARE part of the diet industry. Second, your comments are anecdotal, and do not constitute evidence – neither would ours, if we were to try it. Third, the very low calorie diet (VLCD) that accompanies the hCG protocol will and does work. You WILL lose weight with the hCG protocol. The point is that the clinical evidence does not show that those who used hCG and the VLCD experienced any greater results than those on the VLCD alone.
In other words, the hCG injections do not provide any additional effects. You don’t have to like this, but it is what is. That’s what the evidence shows-check the full review for references, and this blog post for a more in depth discussion regarding the “controversy” surrounding the hCG protocol.
Editor’s follow up: Stella, regarding your follow up message and “challenge” to try the VLCD diet for 15 days with or without the hCG: you’re missing the point. Personal comments are anecdotal. They do not constitute evidence (did you read this post?). In other words, even if we did try it, and did, or did not obtain the same results as you, it would make no difference. It’s still not evidence, sorry. Secondly, we’re a consumer advocate site. We’re not dumping on hCG because we have an alternate mandate (if you had read the article I linked to earlier, you’d understand that). We weigh the existing clinical data against the claims and make our report. In this case, the evidence doesn’t support the claims – regardless of your own personal experiences. That’s it, that’s all.
Visitor Rating:Laura on 08 Aug 2009 at 10:34 am #
I have tried the hCG/Simeon’s protocol and in fact have had great success and losses as well as maintaining my weight.
I am still 10 lbs from goal. My first round was via a naturopathic doctor. I do not know the dose as they mixed it and did not tell me. My second round I obtained and mixed myself with even better more consistent results. I have done other VLCD plans in the past without success. I did not research this before trying so I really had no preconceived notions of whether or not it would work. Only that sometimes it was used in conjunction with dieting.
I am a believer as I have lost 32 lbs in 4 months, without exercise, hunger, looking or feeling poorly. My cravings for bad foods are gone and I have maintained my weight during interruptions from the protocol even when eating close to 2000 calories a day.
Visitor Rating:Papi on 01 Sep 2009 at 8:31 am #
I have not tried the HCG protocol….yet. The reason I am here is to get as much information both pro and con before making a decision.
What I’ve noticed about this forum is that pretty much every post by someone who is pro-HCG is met with the same, tired response by the editor. It’s as if you have some personal ax to grind against it! I’m hearing the large percentage of people say they have had great success with the program, but you come back time after time and quote your “clinical studies”. Well, perhaps the HCG in and of itself hasn’t shown to contribute to the weight loss between the real thing and the placebo, but maybe, just maybe the patient is seeing results because they want to lose the weight and the usage of HCG is a mental motivator!
In any case, whether that be true or not, you do yourself a disservice by continually blasting the use of HCG with the same old tired argument and data you keep referring to.
Editor’s comments: Papi, to begin with, this forum is reserved for people who have tried the hCG protocol. Maybe you missed that. Now, to address your points…
Yes, you will see us make the same points several times here. The reason for that is simple; online people tend to “scan and scroll” rather than read every word. So many of them miss the points the first time.
Regarding an “axe to grind” – you obviously haven’t taken any time to learn what we do or who we are. And you certainly haven’t read this post, or this one. And yes, we hate to keep referring to “the same old tired proof” to make our points. Unfortunately, anyone who makes a countering argument for hCG doesn’t have any proof of any sort to base their argument. Sorry, but we prefer to base our reviews on published clinical data, not anecdotal commentary.
Visitor Rating:john on 13 Sep 2009 at 9:48 pm #
Anecdotal or not…Losing 15 pounds in 2 weeks on HCG is amazing. I am consuming 600 calories a day only(500 being very strict Simeon Protocol and 100 of liquid whey protein(42 gram test tubes in a divided consumption) to compensate for my large muscle mass frame) i go to a gym and get tested every 5 days and to date for the last 16 days i have only lost .3 lbs of lean muscle tissue!! This diet is not for everyone. I am now 230 with 174lbs of lean muscle tissue with 35 more to go! It works…just not for everyone. Say what you want that a VLCD will make anyone lose weight, yes this is correct. However My alteration of the diet for my body type comes from a Masters in nutrition and a degree in culinary arts from Le Cordon bleu. I may post again if it is something not negative in response.
However to the rest on the HCG protocol…GOOD LUCK!!
Visitor Rating:Paul on 21 Oct 2009 at 7:26 pm #
I did the protocol as did my wife, brother, 2 neices, best friend (2 of them) and many others. We loved it. Lost weight without being tired or hungry and felt amazing. No joke.
And the study that was done was not done per the Simeon’s Protocol. They did not gorge for 2 days, nor did they eat the proper foods, just 500 calories. Simeons suggest exact foods. Look, it works. Period.
Editor’s comments: Paul, we have removed your promotional link; this web site is for product feedback only, and not for individuals to promote their hCG related services.
Visitor Rating:Kaitlyn on 03 Nov 2009 at 3:03 pm #
This article and some of the reviewers have bashed Kevin Trudeau and according to some of the information I understand fully why you would. Although, not everything he’s written is a scam.His weight loss book was beyond effective for me. From the age of 10 ten 14 I tried everything to lose weight, which isn’t healthy for a child. At 11 I was eating no carbs and by 15 I was on the verge of an eating disorder. At 15 was when I found his book and lost 50 lbs. It saved my years of high school and made me feel like a normal, sexy, woman. I am now eighteen and have not gained a pound back. I did not try the hCG shots but did make all the other changes he suggested. So please, do not call the man a con and a fraud. He knows some truth and is in so much trouble with the government because he’s basically putting all of the real diet scams to shame. He saved my life, gave me confidence, and made me love me.
Editor’s comments: Kaitlyn, some of what Kevin Trudeau preaches in his weight loss publication is no-nonsense, common sense stuff that will work. But he is not “in so much trouble with the government” because he knows too much; he’s in trouble because he’s a con man who screws his customers out of their hard earned cash. Check out some of the complaints on Rip Off Report; does this look like the actions of a honorable, ethical guy who’s fighting for the little guy? Fact is, Kevin Trudeau is interested in two things only… Kevin Trudeau, and Kevin Trudeau’s bank account.
Visitor Rating:simplyhappy on 10 Nov 2009 at 7:02 pm #
I have tried many, many diets over the years and the HGC protocol has been the most successful. What I found difficult was doing a second and third round. Although I lost 30 lbs the first time, I have cheated during the 2nd and third rounds and bounced up and down the 10 lb. ladder. THats MY fault, not the protocol’s. My first HCG round was over a year ago and I have yet to lose the last 10, but I have not gained the 30 back either. I guess its time to hit the gym!
Visitor Rating:Andres on 30 Nov 2009 at 1:48 pm #
I have been on the HcG Diet for approximately 2 weeks. I am following Dr. Simeons protocol with the injections. I have lost aprox. 15 pounds.
I did read in one comment in where one person stated that they felt weak for the first 2 weeks and I would agree with that statement. Actually I encountered weaknesses within the first 5 days and then I seemed to stabilize after that. My blood sugar levels fluctutated within that initial time period.
I am not a fan of Kevin Trudeau, but as I stated I am not following any guidelines from his book, but by Dr. A.T.W. Simeons Pounds and Inches Protocol. I have read the 1963 study (Which Dr. Simeons Protocol was not followed at all i.e. allowing a baked potato to be eaten), 1973 study (of which both controlled groups did lose weight, but the HcG Controlled group did lose at twice the rate)and I believe the 1995 study which did find HcG could aid in weight loss.
I do believe in HcG regardless of other people or organizations view points. Also, in the article that states Dr. Simeons did not have any studies supporting his claims is not entirely accurate. It is true that he did not use controlled groups to validate his theory, but he does site his success rate of about 60-70%.
I do believe that 30-40% of people entering this diet will fail. Then again what are the staistics for Weight Watchers, Jenny Craig, Dr. Atkins, South Beach and other numerous diets failure percentage. Honestly, I do not know the percentage rates for these other weight loss programs, but would be very interesting to see. This statement is certainly not to attack these other weight loss procedures as they certainly do have evidence of success and I have met many people who have done well with them.
In conclusion, yes this diet is definetly not for everyone. While this diet calls for a lifestyle change and strict discipline, it should be noted that any type of true weight loss will require the same changes. The difference with this diet is that you can lose weight at a more rapid pace then other things on the market.
Visitor Rating:DELMEM on 07 Dec 2009 at 8:32 pm #
After gaining and losing the same 30-50 lbs over and over again on other “diets” – my last of 3 thirty day protocol rounds over a year ago – over 65 lbs lost and kept off.
You state this is a forum “reserved for people who’ve actually TRIED the protocol” – yet you constantly feel the need to post negative editorial comments, having no experience YOURSELVES. (so make up your mind, is this JUST for people with actual experience, or for you to bash hCG?)
You also falsely stated there were no positive studies – and later edited the UFB post to include Asher Harper. Obviously not very thorough with your work, you also failed to mention the positive Lebon study, and apparently aren’t aware of it existing, as you previously weren’t aware of the AH study.
You injected a personal opinion that “a large percentage of weight loss will be comprised of muscle mass” when you have no evidence to support that claim. DO try and hold yourselves to the same guidelines you hold everyone else to.
Your “rain on your parade” comment about no evidence of hCG’s muscle sparing effect is just laughable… you must know hCG has andro effects & is used to increase natural testosterone production – wreckless to then totally decouple that FACT from hCG when used in weight loss.
From this month’s issue of Journal of Endo Metabolism: “In addition, hCG stimulated the proliferation of…smooth muscle cells.”
hCG is also used for Prader-Willi syndrome – “During hCG therapy, testosterone levels and lean mass significantly increased”.
hCG has been used in Europe for about a decade to prevent muscle wasting and proliferation of the virus in AIDS patients & is also used in localized treatment of KS lesions.
As far as the “negative” studies you continually refer to as to bolster your view on hCG – maybe you could take half the effort you do blasting hCG – to actually READ some of them.
The “negative” Stein et.al. Study – the mean loss in 4 weeks was 9.5% of starting weight. You know anyone who wouldn’t want that kind of loss in a month ?
The “negative” Franks study. You’ve said time and again “anyone can lose weight on a VLCD” – yet somehow MIRACULOUSLY patient D.H. male, 32 years old started at 308 lbs, only lost 4 lbs after 54 days on Franks protocol of 1030 cals per day.
If ole DH was 5 ft tall and never got out of bed (presumed negative biased for lower BMR calc) his caloric deficit over 54 days would have been approx 75,000 cals, divide by 3500 = 21 lbs lost, yet he only dropped 4 lbs.
Statistically, 46% of the Frank study couldn’t possibly have lost the scant amounts reported if they actually stuck to Frank’s dietary restrictions – which were over twice the cals, twice the carbs and half the protein Simeons protocol called for. To wit: they cheated their chubby little behinds off.
The rest of the HCG Group: 33% were inline with caloric deficit, 21% lost significantly more than deficit would indicate, of those the mean ADDITIONAL LOSS was 64% more than caloric deficit alone would suggest.
For the record – in court documents from 1974 when Simeons management was sued by the FTC – the US govt stated in writing they never claimed hCG was unsafe or ineffective for weight loss.
You mention “properly conducted clinical trials”. I’d submit none exist as none did any of the testing that is relevant. Metabolic rate, changes in blood chemistry, body scans to determine where the weight loss came from (fat/water/muscle) PEER review means very little, most seem to just read the abstract, didn’t bother to delve into the data to find questionable results as those I pointed out above.
Throwing out all studies to date would leave just anecdotal results – and what results they are. Those of us that lost 10% of our mass in a month and kept it off couldn’t care less how that stacks up with a placebo group.
3 pharma cos have “diet drugs” in late stage clinical trials which the FDA most likely WILL approve. The trials included the drug, altered diet and exercise.
Their % loss in over a year? 5%, 8% and 15% (the last uses an amphetamine in combo with a diabetic med, and approx 40% of the group dropped out prior to completion.) The amphetamine? Phentermine of FenPhen fame.. though I’m sure it won’t end up killing people like the last combo did, right ? Simeons protocol has been around for over 50 years, with nary a death linked to it.
Editor’s comments: First, the Asher Harper study was not included in the original review, since the follow up study (American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Vol 29, 940-948) designed to duplicate its results indicated what all the other studies indicate – that hCG has no positive effect on weight loss. We noticed you never mention THAT study.
Perhaps a mistake on our part, so we revised the review. Our bad.
We also notice you suggest that we have no personal experience with hCG. That’s true, but even if we did, that would not constitute evidence. It’s an anecdotal experience. It s not evidence. Nether is your experience, whether you care to admit it or not.
However, Delmem, for all your derogatory comments, you still haven’t provided one iota of clinical proof that hCG helps with weight loss over a placebo. That’s what we’re talking about here; not other possible benefits, which may or may not exist. For instance, “The effect of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) in the treatment of obesity by means of the Simeons therapy: a criteria-based meta-analysis“, concluded…
“…there is no scientific evidence that HCG is effective in the treatment of obesity; it does not bring about weight-loss of fat-redistribution, nor does it reduce hunger or induce a feeling of well-being.”
Despite your condescending and authoritarian tone, Delmem, you haven’t provided ANY proof. You know, the peer-reviewed published stuff like WE use. The conclusions are unanimous.
What is “wreckless”, Delmem, is making recommendations for hCG when the VAST MAJORITY of evidence does not support such a recommendation. We have no vested interest in showing either a “pro” or “con” side to hCG; we look at the existing data, and make our decisions on that. If you had taken two seconds to read some of the referenced links in this discussion – like this one here for instance – you’d understand that. You seem to be happy to dismiss ANY study that delivers ANY data that contradicts what you believe about hCG. It’s old, the methodology is flawed, the peer-reviewed process sucks, yada, yada, yada (interesting how this only applies when the results contradict your belief). Well, here’s the newsflash Delmem – “old” doesn’t mean “wrong.” And yes, the peer-reviewed process isn’t perfect. But it’s the best we have. And yes, it is possible that new studies will show hCG is beneficial for weight loss. When those studies are published, you can expect our review to be revised.
The point is, at this time, there is NO evidence to support your theory. Evidence Delmem. Facts. If we don’t base our reviews on facts, what would you have us use? Tarot cards?
You don’t really seem to be that interested in the facts, which makes us wonder if you have some sort of vested financial interest in the promotion of hCG. Do you? Would you care to reveal it? And please… we’d love to discuss hCG with you, if you can be bothered to discuss it in a CIVIL manner. But please use the contact form; as you noticed – but failed to heed – that this discussion is for users to share their experiences with the diet.
Oh yes, and here’s another inconvenient fact; medically-supervised VLCDs work quite nicely, and accomplish much the same results as you’re claiming are unique to hCG.
One more comment Delmem…
If you don’t like this forum, don’t read it. We moderate this forum to add value, and to ensure our audience understands the facts behind any of the products featured here. When someone blatantly contradicts the evidence we provide, yet does not provide any evidence themselves, it is our duty to point this out to our audience, who may be vulnerable to claims of “miracles.” We simply won’t allow anyone to say whatever they want without providing evidence. That’s what makes this site different.
Visitor Rating:DELMEM on 09 Dec 2009 at 12:47 am #
Delmem: We’ve deleted your post; as indicated in our last follow up; this site is for people discussing the use of hCG and their experiences with it. If you’d like to continue the discussion, how about adding your comments to the relevant articles on the blog – here, and here! Thanks!
Visitor Rating:NeuroDoc on 20 Dec 2009 at 10:33 am #
I’m a published scientist and have conducted and supervised many (primarily quantitative) research studies. None of them on weight loss, I’m afraid; however, I do teach research design and have served on Institutional Review Boards. One thing I understand very well is that the same monied interests that control the media also control Big Pharma and granting purse strings. I always review research with a critical eye and the only valid conclusion one can come to with regard to research on hCG is that there is a dearth of methodologically sound clinical trials.
Thankfully, that did not stop me from trying hCG myself. I could not find a significant downside to giving it a try other than it might be a waste of time and a small amount of money (I followed Simeon’s protocol and did it on my own). I’d never dieted before (my weight gain was fairly recent), but the anecdotal testimony was overwhelming. That spoke volumes to me in spite of the poor methodology of the few early studies. Anyone who dismisses anecdotal testimony is turning a blind eye to an excellent source of information. After all, much research is comprised of the aggregate presentation of individual cases. Dr. Simeon’s protocol seems to work for just about everyone who tries it and sticks with it and complaints or ill effects are minimal.
It’s hard work, but I’ve been on hCG and the 500 calorie diet for nearly two weeks and have lost an average of a bit over a pound per day. This will probably slow as women average closer to .6 or so by the time they complete the weight loss round. That’s fine. The diet is a challenge (boring and I miss food!) but I feel fine and appreciate the chance this program gives the dieter to restructure their eating habits and reset their metabolism.
The thing that inspires all of us on the diet and sticking with it is the incredible success that hCG has had for those who have tried it. There are several excellent support forums that are easy to find. If you are thinking about trying it, just look for one of them and get started
Editor’s comments: Laney, as consumer advocates, our duties here are to address the best interests of our visitors – occasionally by questioning the comments of our visitors, as well meaning as they may be. So please keep that in mind as we address your comments. In regards to them…
1) You use your stature as a published scientist obviously to add credibility to your comments. There are two problems here; one, you have not provided any way for us to authenticate who you are (which means your claim is meaningless) and two, even if you did, being a research scientist in one area does not translate to competency in others.
2) You have obviously been swayed by the positive testimonials for the hCG protocol. As a research scientist, you should be well aware that none of these invalidate the “hCG functions as a placebo” argument.
3) We have a bit of trouble understanding how a established research scientist, well versed in the scientific method, would be so quick to attribute weight loss results to hCG, when they are entirely consistent with those attained with VLCDs (Very Low Calorie Diets), which are already established to work, and are an essential part of the hCG protocol.
4) Flawed methodology aside, the existing body of evidence is almost 100% unanimous in its conclusion; hCG does not outperform a placebo. In all our arguments with advocates of this protocol – even physicians who prescribe it themselves – not one person has been able to present anything remotely resembling evidence that hCG works.
5) Hinting at some “big pharma” conspiracy to perhaps shed doubt on the credibility of the study results, is, in the absence of such evidence, irresponsible. Especially when there’s a much simpler explanation available; the results attained on the hCG protocol are entirely attributable to the Very Low Calorie diet that accompanies it.
Visitor Rating:Karena on 30 Dec 2009 at 4:47 pm #
I am on day 4 and lost 4 lbs. I have a girlfriend who I have known for 20 years. We both have dieted and gained, lost and always gained back weight. She did the HCG diet for 3 weeks and lost 20 lbs. I was waiting for her to gain it back and decided to exercize hard instead. I lost a few pounds, but gained it back.
She has kept it off for 5 months and looks great. So that is why I decided to try it. The two meals and apples between is enough. It is only for a 3-4 week period and then go back to eating normal, more aware this time around, less carbs and junk food. I only paid $19.00 for the HCG drops. Not much profit for big corporate America. Get it?
Editor’s comments: Karena, “real” hCG requires a prescription and is administered via intramuscular injection. If you bought drops, you didn’t get real hCG. No profit for corporate America, but no hCG for you either.
Visitor Rating:Jessica on 05 Jan 2010 at 8:15 pm #
In the past ten years, I continually gained weight, lost it, and then regained it over and over again. I tried everything… I tried pills, I tried exercise programs, I tried joining the gym and going every day, I tried Atkins, Zone diet, South Beach… everything. It was all getting quite ridiculous, so I found some information on Dr. Joel Fuhrman, who promotes fasting.
Fasting, as defined on dictionary.com, ” to abstain from all food.
2. to eat only sparingly or of certain kinds of food, esp. as a religious observance.
–verb (used with object) 3. to cause to abstain entirely from or limit food; put on a fast: to fast a patient for a day before surgery.”
It is something the human body is made to do to survive… someone with a decent muscle mass can do this without harm for about 40 days, according to Dr. Fuhrman’s book on fasting.
Just watch those people on the show Survivor… they are eating maybe 500 calories a day. MAYBE. And they are surviving… but they are miserable and hungry.
So… I tried it. I was miserable… I was weak and a little mentally loopy and stopped after two weeks. It was so stressful on my body, it took a month to recover fully to be able to go back to exercise.
In the meantime, yes, I had lost 10 pounds in those two weeks… but guess what. I gained them back in that month of recovery, and that’s even sticking with the diets in Dr. Fuhrman’s “Eat for Life” book.
Look at those people on Survivor. They lose all that weight during the show, then at the finale, you see how they all gained that weight right back.
So… I was resigned to just being 50lbs overweight for the rest of my life, and possibly more in the future.
Then a friend of mine at work tried the Dr. Simeon protocol. Truly… I thought she was insane, remembering my experience with fasting, but I was curious… it was something I hadn’t tried yet.
I researched the hcg diet up and down… I wasn’t about to inject just anything in me.
Yes… there are risks involved… but they are the same risks as the same people who use the hcg for a different issue (like fertility) with higher dosages that IS approved by the FDA. The FDA approved those same risks, so what’s the problem with this?
Dr. Simeon mentions in his “Pounds and Inches” text about how pregnant women in third world countries barely have anything to eat and they are skinny to the bone, yet they produce a healthy fat baby. Yes… anecdotal, but something to keep in the back of your mind.
Hcg is found where cancer is found, both in men and women. Who’s to say that hcg is the creator of cancer? Then why haven’t all the pregnant women in the world been diagnosed with cancer? Why was there that study (http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/04/090420170752.htm and the most recent one from November http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/11/091124140949.htm) that was featured on Fox News that women who get pregnant before the age of twenty are between 30% and 50% less likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer or ovarian cancer (which is a close relative)?
My own uneducated hypothesis about hcg is that hcg is the body’s own mechanism for fighting cancer. My reason is this: the body’s primary goal is the make that baby survive, so it produces a hormone that not only makes all fats readily available for consumption in case of famine, but also kills tumors and cancers. Yes, sometimes the hcg will not succeed in defending the person from cancer… but I could say it would be an interesting study to see the effect of injected hcg into a cancer patient to see what happens.
So I did it… I figured, what have I got to lose? A few pounds? If I felt crappy, I would stop. I am healthy as a horse. The only thing I had a was a moderate case of fibrocystic breast disease (made your breasts very sore prior to menstral flow, and in severe cases, will create non-cancerous lumps in your breasts) which wasn’t treated… I just dealt with it.
It was great. My first 35 day round, I lost 23 pounds. I wasn’t miserable, I wasn’t hungry, yes… I could not exercise, otherwise it was like my body would shut down. I gained a “glow” about me… my face filled out from being gaunt from other yo-yo dieting… it was incredible.
And… while my breasts were super sore for the first couple weeks on the diet, the soreness went away… and I haven’t had any trouble since. Maybe the hcg took it away?
So I did it again a couple months later. Lost another 15 pounds.
In total, I lost 27.25 inches. Went from a size 14 to a size 8.
As far as muscle loss… I have a muscular build… I’m a heavy girl with a slim frame. 5′8″ 150 pounds… size 8. I did not lose my muscle mass, or at least, not even an 1/8 of what I lost in those two weeks that I fasted.
Because of my own experience with fasting, (which 500 calories is considered fasting) one cannot convince me that the hcg diet does not help with going down to that VLCD.
I’ve been there… and it sucks when you don’t have the hcg.
Anecdotal… but that is my experience, and people should know.
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