Popular HCG diet has major health risks

The recent increase in weight loss promotion using injections or oral HCG provides an opportunity to educate the public of an appropriate approach to weight loss.

Two thirds of U.S. adults are overweight or obese. Looking for a quick fix is inevitable for this group. Weight loss ads to “lose 30 pounds in 30 days” are misleading and potentially harmful.

HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) is a hormone found in the urine of pregnant women produced by the placenta of pregnancy. The combination of HCG and rigid dietary restriction causes weight loss only because of the very low-calorie or starvation-like diet, not the HCG.

There have been no scientific studies that show HCG alters fat distribution, causes hunger reduction or induces a feeling of well-being. The American Society of Bariatric Physicians do not recommend the use of HCG. Users will waste their money on HCG and suffer from nutritional deficiencies based on the severe restriction of carbohydrate, protein, fats and fiber that accompany HCG diet plans.

Lifestyle alterations such as vigorous walking for 30 minutes four times per week, minimizing calorie levels to 1,200-1,500 per day and avoidance of fast foods will result in weight loss if consistently adhered to.

Dr. Thomas J. Getta

Cedar Rapids