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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How Effective Are HCG Injections?

I was on Phase 1 (the "loading" phase) of the HCG diet (taking the injections) the past three days, and I am supposed to begin Phase 2 (the 500 calorie diet with the HCG) of the diet today. I took a Plan B pill this morning, and I'm wondering if the HCG injections will cause the Plan B pill to lose effectiveness. I have not given myself the HCG injection today just in case. Is it okay to go ahead with the injection? I am most concerned about the effectiveness of the Plan B with the HCG.
Wed, 14 Oct 2015
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Dietitian & Nutritionist 's  Response
Welcome to HCM! I am very aware of this HCG diet having counseled many patients about it. It can cause clotting issues and is generally considered to be a dangerous diet to be on. HCG is a fertility hormone and research has not shown it do to anything for weight loss. The weight loss comes from the extremely restrictive diet associated with gallstone formation, irregular heartbeat and electrolyte imbalance.

Side-effects include irritability, restlessness, fatigue, fluid build-up, blood clots.

There are safer alternatives to weight loss that also facilitate long term lifestyle changes necessary to keep the weight off.

If you have a dietitian near you I recommend you seek out the help of this professional and join a social support group. If you are in the US, I have a clinic. There is also Zest.MD telenutrition services that I am aware of. It all depends on where you live what resources might be available.

If you are over 30 BMI you may qualify for qsymia or Belviq, both prescription medications coordinated by your physician.

Please write back or come through the specialty portal and ask for me if you would like alternative weight loss ideas. I will be able to give you more specific guidance provided I have all the information needed (medications,sample eating diary,supplements,height, weight, age and other diets tried).

Back to your specific question - Is it ok to go ahead with the injection? No, not at all. See the potential side-effects.Did you consult with your doctor who has cardiac history and other information? Our healing motto is "Above all, do no harm". This is my best conscience advice I would give to any client of mine.

Good luck and hope to hear from you again. Kathryn Shattler, MS,RDN
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How Effective Are HCG Injections?

Welcome to HCM! I am very aware of this HCG diet having counseled many patients about it. It can cause clotting issues and is generally considered to be a dangerous diet to be on. HCG is a fertility hormone and research has not shown it do to anything for weight loss. The weight loss comes from the extremely restrictive diet associated with gallstone formation, irregular heartbeat and electrolyte imbalance. Side-effects include irritability, restlessness, fatigue, fluid build-up, blood clots. There are safer alternatives to weight loss that also facilitate long term lifestyle changes necessary to keep the weight off. If you have a dietitian near you I recommend you seek out the help of this professional and join a social support group. If you are in the US, I have a clinic. There is also Zest.MD telenutrition services that I am aware of. It all depends on where you live what resources might be available. If you are over 30 BMI you may qualify for qsymia or Belviq, both prescription medications coordinated by your physician. Please write back or come through the specialty portal and ask for me if you would like alternative weight loss ideas. I will be able to give you more specific guidance provided I have all the information needed (medications,sample eating diary,supplements,height, weight, age and other diets tried). Back to your specific question - Is it ok to go ahead with the injection? No, not at all. See the potential side-effects.Did you consult with your doctor who has cardiac history and other information? Our healing motto is Above all, do no harm . This is my best conscience advice I would give to any client of mine. Good luck and hope to hear from you again. Kathryn Shattler, MS,RDN