The HCG Diet
I frequently hear advertising for versions of the “HCG Diet.” This typically involves taking homeopathic quantities of the hormone HCG [human chorionic gonadotropin] along with a 500 calorie per day diet. It does make sense that if your intake is only 500 calories per day you will lose weight. Many authorities, however, do not recommend such a low level of intake to avoid creating problems such as loss of muscle mass. That level of intake is not sustainable for the long term so there is often rebound weight gain once it is stopped, rather than a long term maintenance of weight at a more desirable level. In the medical literature there is a lack of published data to support any benefit of HCG for weight loss. Webmd.com has a more detailed analysis of this topic including notice that the FDA and FTC issued warning letters in December, 2011 to manufacturers of these products for making unsubstantiated claims.
