Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is HCG?

A. HCG stands for Human Chorionic Gonadotropin. It is secreted by the placenta during pregnancy. In early pregnancy HCG helps to increase progesterone in order to maintain the pregnancy.

Q. How long has HCG been used in weight loss?

A. Dr. Simeone first used HCG in 1954. He noted that patients on HCG lost more fat and reshaped their bodies. In the mid 1980s, studies done on HCG failed to demonstrate any advantage over just using a low calorie diet. Eventually the FDA stated that HCG was not indicated for weight loss.

Q. Why is HCG being recommended for my program?

A. Since 1990, there has been a number of studies suggesting that HCG may not contribute to weight loss, but seems to stimulate a greater amount of fat loss and patients on HCG had considerable less irritability.

Q. How does HCG work?

A. HCG seems to increase lipid breakdown and decreases fat formation in the liver and adipose tissue. HCG has a beta endorphin subunit which stimulates the formation of endorphins and raises serotonin levels resulting in an uplifted mood.

Q. How is HCG administered?

A. HCG is a very large protein, therefore it is only absorbable if given by an injection. To date there is inadequate proof of transdermal or sublingual absorption.