HCG Frequently Asked Questions

What is HCG and how does it work?

HCG is a hormone naturally produced in the body. It has many functions and is used medically to treat a variety of conditions. It is the natural pregnancy hormone, but during pregnancy the levels double every two days. This hormone allows the body to mobilize fat and use it as energy for both mother and fetus. This acts as a "fail-safe" mechanism when energy is needed immediately. For weight loss, only a very small amount of HCG is used to capitalize on this same mechanism. Using HCG in this way does not mimic pregnancy; in fact, it can be safely used by both men and women.

How does the homeopathic HCG formula X-3 LEAN® work?

A homeopathic remedy actually starts out with HCG. However, it is diluted many times so that the drug is not actually contained in the bottle, but the energy of it is contained in the formula. It therefore, creates the exact same response in the body as daily HCG injections. The advantages are you can travel with it, it does not have to be refrigerated, it stays stable longer and X-3 Lean contains other beneficial substances to help balance the entire body.

Is HCG safe?

HCG is extremely safe. During pregnancy, women produce very high levels with no adverse effects. The small amount used for weight loss has no adverse side effects. In addition to losing abnormal fat, another positive utilization of HCG is in the successful treatment of breast and prostate cancer.

If HCG works so well for weight loss, why don't pregnant women lose weight?

HCG works to mobilize fat for utilization by the body only when there is a significant decrease in calories and fat. A starvation state must exist for HCG to work. For weight loss, a very low calorie diet to trigger HCG to help rid the body of fat is necessary.

Will my metabolism slow down if I'm on a very low calorie diet?

Normally when one cuts back calories and fat, the body stores fat, compromises muscle and bone, and metabolism slows down. This happens because fat is really a life-saving source of stored energy. However, Dr. Simeons proved that when a very low calorie diet is used in conjunction with the HCG, the hormone signals the body to use stored fat for energy. This in turn, decreases excess fat reserves and does not compromise muscle. It's a natural process, so no ill effects on metabolism result.

Wouldn't I lose the same amount of weight eating a very low calorie diet without HCG?

People can lose weight by simply eating fewer calories and fat, but because the body stores fat during times of deprivation, muscle and bone will most likely be lost before fat. This causes cellular metabolism to slow down, so in the long run, it would make gaining weight easier, more storage of abnormal fat, as well as a decrease in bone density and muscle mass. By using HCG with the low calorie diet, extra abnormal fat is mobilized for energy and the rest is eliminated; the low calorie diet is vital in preventing immediate refilling of emptied fat cells. People benefit by getting rid of excess fat without affecting bone, muscle or metabolism.

The HCG diet is very low calorie, will I get hungry?

Because HCG mobilizes fat and makes it available to the body as an energy source, it naturally reduces appetite. Even though people are taking in fewer calories, the body can access the energy stored in fat cells. After about 2 days, many people notice a significant decrease in their appetite. Overall, most people have plenty of energy and feel good while on the program. For people who have continued hunger, it is generally either low blood sugar or yeast overgrowth issues.

Will HCG interfere with any medications I am currently taking, including birth control and HRT?

HCG does not interact with any medications when Dr. Simeons' recommended dosage is followed. However, females taking unopposed synthetic estrogens should investigate a Bio-Identical hormone program with a qualified practitioner.

Will I experience any changes in my menstrual cycle taking HCG?

Because the amount of HCG is so small, there are generally no changes to a menstrual cycle. Likewise, HCG will not affect a female's ability to become pregnant, nor will it increase chances of getting pregnant.

Why are some people calling HCG the "Weight Loss Cure"?

HCG is also being called the "Weight Loss Cure" because after taking it for weight loss, research indicates that it reprograms the body to use stored fat for energy when calories are reduced for a period of time. Or put another way, it helps people maintain weight and not regain the lost pounds if the maintenance protocol is followed.

How much weight can I expect to lose on the program?

On average, females lose 15 - 20 lbs. per month and men lose about 20 - 30 lbs per month. Some people lose as much as 10 to 12 lbs the first week, but the average is 5 to 7 lbs.

Does the weight loss slow down after the first month?

Many times a large amount of weight is lost in the first month and then the actual pounds on the scale decreases in a stair-step fashion. The remarkable thing is that pounds and inches are continuously lost while on the program. After a period of time, most people experience another large drop either on the scales and/or in the clothes size.