The HCG Protocol-Experiencing The First Week

The first and the last week of a diet are usually the toughest. The first week, you get acquainted with your new routine, and the end of the diet seems so far away. The last week, you have seen the bulk of your success, and you are excited to move on to maintaining your new figure. Here you will get a sneak peek into experiencing the first week on the HCG Protocol!

Loading

The first two days of the HCG Protocol consist of binging. Eat as much as possible; high calorie foods, sweet, greasy, basically eat everything you aren't suppose to eat when dieting. Seems crazy, right? Well, the purpose of this "loading" period is to stock up the normal fat reserves. My initial reaction to this was,"My fat reserves ARE well-stocked! This is why I need to go on a diet!" The problem was that the fat I wanted to get rid of was actually abnormal fat. To be comfortable on the 500 calorie diet, this binging stage is required.

The third day of HCG intake tends to be when the abnormal fat deposits begin to release. This idea can be very hard to open up to, especially for someone who has been dieting for years. As can be expected, there may be a gain, but it is usually lost within the first 48 hours of dieting. If "loading" is not followed through on, starting the 500 calorie diet will most likely be accompanied with some hunger. Also keep in mind it will only be a few days, and the return will be phenomenal at the end of the round!

Increased Water Intake

Water plays a big role in the HCG Protocol. Water is what guides the abnormal fat out of the body. Dr. Simeons recommends in "Pounds and Inches" that patients on the HCG Protocol should drink 2 liters of fluid a day (that is 6 to 8 bottles of water, depending on how big the bottle is). This may be a bit of an adjustment, not only to remember to drink more water throughout the day, but your body will need a few days to get used to the abundance of water. Your body will not retain water, in fact you will be making a few more trips to the restroom! This should become less frequent after the first week.

New Menu

Even if you have been dieting for what seems to be your whole life, the foods available to you after the first 2 days will probably take a little getting used to. No sugars or starches are allowed through Phase Two. There are also limitations on which fruits, vegetables and proteins can be eaten. Check out the approved list, and get a hold of some recipes before you start.

As with any goals we work to achieve, the HCG Protocol does take some dedication, will-power, sacrifice, and support. Keep in mind that 43 days is a small sacrifice to make considering the loss you will experience, and the confidence that comes along with it. Don't forget what your end result will bring you, and don't give up!

1. Prev:How To Burn More Calories
2. Next:Mediterranean Diet Foods  -  Learn All The Healthy Benefits