If you have considered trying the hCG diet to lose unwanted pounds, but you are worried about possible side effects, do not let your reservations stop you. For the last 50 years, the hCG diet has been a practical way to lose unwanted pounds. If you follow the protocol correctly, the dietary plan is a safe and effective way to lose weight. 

What is hCG and How Does it Help Lose Weight? 

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a completely natural hormone produced by a woman’s body during pregnancy. Researchers have found that the hormone encourages the body to pull fat from its reserves to promote the healthy growth and development of the fetus in utero. When the hormones are provided to non-pregnant individuals who are maintaining a 500-calorie per day intake they do not suffer from cravings or hunger. Dieters start to lose as much as a pound per day of weight. Not only does the weight melt away, but once dieters stop using the hCG, their metabolism is effectively reset, so they keep off the weight. 

Common Side Effects of the hCG Diet

During the first week of the diet, you may experience headaches or fatigue as your body starts to adjust. Many people, before starting the hCG diet, have trained their bodies to rely on sugary drinks such as sodas and energy beverages as a pick-me-up during the mid-afternoon slump. The body forms an addiction to such beverages, and it is not uncommon to suffer withdrawals in the form of headaches and fatigue when the items are cut out of the daily diet. Headaches and fatigue can also occur as a direct result of not consuming a sufficient amount of water throughout the day. 

Using hCG Drops

Most people suffer no side effects when using hCG drops. Drops are not only the easiest form of hCG, but also the most common. 

Dietary Side Effects 

The hCG drops do not cause problems, but you can experience some side effects that are related to your body adjusting to the reduced caloric intake. As listed above, headaches and fatigue might occur during the first week, but usually, subsist as your body adjusts.

Here are a few other conditions that can occur for a variety of reasons: 

• Constipation: While actively participating in the hCG diet you will be consuming far fewer calories than you did during your pre-diet days. The reduced food consumption means that your bowel movements normally decrease. Some individuals may experience constipation if they do not drink enough water throughout the day. It is not unusual to only experience a bowel movement every three to four days while on the hCG diet because you are eating fewer calories. Remember, drinking lots of water helps you have easier bowel movements and prevents possible constipation. 

• Dizziness: During the first week of the hCG diet, some users report experiencing dizziness. Usually, vertigo is very mild. It may occur during the mid-day when your body starts to crave the carbs it has grown accustomed to utilizing for energy before embarking on the diet. 

• Leg Cramps: Leg cramps may occur because of lowered potassium levels in the body. If you start to experience leg cramps while on the hCG diet you might want to consult with the medical team at Nu Image Medical about taking a potassium supplement or multivitamin. 

• Rash: It is not unusual for some people to experience a slight skin rash. The skin condition occurs because of the body’s rapid consumption of its fat reserves that release toxins which could manifest as a rash. Staying hydrated while on the hCG diet helps flush out toxins and keep your skin clear. 

While on the hCG diet your body is going through dramatic changes and rapidly shedding pounds. It is not unusual to feel different, and it may take you time to adjust. However, side effects are very rare. Typically, the long-term benefits you gain in improving your health by losing weight far exceeds the mild side effect that may occur. 

If you have concerns about possible side effects while on the hCG diet please contact Nu Image Medical to discuss them. 

About the author

Dr. Constance Odom, MD

Dr. Constance Odom, MD

Dr. Constance Odom, MD

About

Constance Tambakis Odom, MD graduated in 1987 with her Doctorate of Medicine from the New York Medical College, and was an Anesthesiologist Resident from 1988 to 1991 at the Brookdale Medical Center PGY II (CA-I)-PGY IV (CA-III). She is Board Certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology since 1998 and American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine since 2002. Constance Odom, MD is affiliated with the American Medical Association, American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, American Society of Anesthesiology, Georgia Society of Anesthesiology, Hellenic Medical Society of New York, North Carolina Society of Anesthesiology, and Society of Ambulatory Anesthesia.

Credentials

Medical Director At:

• Nu Image Medical
• MetroMedispa P.A.

Staff Anesthesiologist at:

• Betsy Johnson Regional Hospital in Dunn, NC
• Onslow Memorial Hospital in Jacksonville, NC
• Duplin General Hospital in Kenansville, NC

Director of Anesthesia Services at:

• Jacksonville Surgery Center in Jacksonville, NC

2 years ago · 8 min read