What are the benefits of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) diet?

Theory: After treating young male patients with hypogonadism and obesity with injectable human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) and a restricted diet, A. T. Simeons, MD observed reduced appetite and fat redistribution.

He therefore theorized that there were three types of fat: structural fat, which provides essential padding; normal fat, which provides fuel when insufficient calories are consumed; and abnormal fat, which is only found in overweight patients.

He further described abnormal fat as excessive fat distribution to the stomach, hips, thighs, and upper arms. He theorized that HCG injections would cause the abnormal fat to redistribute and that in the process of moving, the abnormal fat would be used as fuel as a result of a severely restricted diet.

However, he emphasized that while abnormal fat could serve as a fuel reserve, in order for it to do so, the regimen had to be followed exactly. If it were not, he theorized that the normal and structural fats might be used as fuel first, while the abnormal fat would remain.

He also noted that failure to follow the regimen exactly might cause patients to become fatigued and hungry, which would place them at risk for quitting the diet.

Dr. Simeons used the regimen in other patients with obesity and reported appetite reduction and fat redistribution similar to that found in his young male patients.

Evidence: There is currently a lack of evidence that HCG helps promote weight loss or fat redistribution, reduced feelings of hunger, or improved feelings of well-being.

You should read product labels, and discuss all therapies with a qualified healthcare provider. Natural Standard information does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.