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We are here to help you with your hCG questions. If you can not find answers to your questions please contact at the number at the top of this page.

• General Questions

  • Q: What does HCG do in the body?

    A: Our diet is based on the original diet protocol from Dr. Simeons from the 1950’s. His research found that HCG causes the hypothalamus area of the brain to trigger a release of abnormal fat stores. When the HCG is taken in relatively small doses and coupled with a very low calorie diet, (500 calories per day) people routinely lose an average of one pound a day. The amount of weight lost on the diet depends on the individual body and the participants’ strictness to the diet. The HCG works by targeting the abnormally stored fats in the body (the fats that aren’t typically accessed for energy), and releases them into the body. The body then burns the abnormally stored fats at about the rate of 3,500 to 4,000 calories per day. On average, this equates to about a pound of fat loss per day.

  • Q: What are the 9 Natural Amino acids added to HCG Triumph?

    A: Arginine is an amino acid which helps relaxes blood vessels and improves circulation, while improving heart health and the immune system.

    Glycine creates muscle tissue and converts glucose into energy. It is also essential to maintaining a healthy central nervous system and digestive system.

    L-Carnitine is a naturally occurring amino acid which plays a vital role in the metabolism of fat, as a powerful antioxidant increasing blood circulation and is known to support a healthy memory.

    Lysine is a nutrient responsible for converting fatty acids into energy and helping to lower cholesterol. Lysine appears to help the body absorb calcium, and it plays an important role in the formation of collagen, a substance important for bones and connective tissues, including skin, tendons, and cartilage.

    Ornithine is known for anabolic and fat burning properties. It causes the pituitary gland to release more growth hormone.

    Phenylalanine-L-phenylalanine is effective for regulating mood, appetite, and mental alertness.

    Tyrosine helps to regulate appetite and is needed for normal functioning of the thyroid, pituitary, and adrenal glands.

    Phosphorus plays an essential role in how the body stores and uses energy.

    Calcarea Carbonica is a homeopathic remedy commonly used to help strengthen bones.

    Ammonium Carbonicum is the salt obtained from equal parts of sal-ammoniac and crystalline carbonate of soda, ground together and combined at a moderate heat.

  • Q: What do the HCG Triumph drops taste like?

    A: The formula is 20 % alcohol, which has a mild to bland taste. The rest of the formula does not carry a taste.

  • Q: Will heat affect the HCG?

    A: Not generally. The HCG will be effective unless it reaches the alcohol boiling point of about 175° F.

  • Q: What is the shelf life for HCG Triumph?

    A: An opened bottle will last 90 days, whereas a sealed bottle will last for 3 years, the expiration date is on the bottom of your bottle.

  • Q: How are the HCG drops administered?

    A: The drops are administered by dropping the recommended amount of drops (the oral syringe can be used for accurate dosage) underneath the tongue and held there for 15 seconds before swallowing.

  • Q: How much time should pass between each dose of HCG?

    A: Approximately 4-5 hours between each dose of HCG is ideal. The drops should be taken at least 15 to 30 minutes prior to eating or drinking, but no more than an hour before eating or drinking.

  • Q: How do I use the oral syringe?

    A: Measure the HCG liquid to .38 ml.

  • Q: How does CC equate to ML?

    A: ML equates exactly to CC.

  • Q: What is included in the HCG Diet Kit?

    A: The HCG diet kit includes: HCG Oral Drops Oral Liquid B-Vitamin Complex (for energy) Oral Syringe (for accurate dosage of HCG) Measuring Tape Guide Booklet The booklet contains information regarding the breakdown of the diet and the different phases involved. It also includes a list of HCG approved foods, a diet tracker link, and a grocery list, as well as over 30 recipes and lots of helpful diet tips.

  • Q: When should the B-Vitamin Complex be administered?

    A: For optimal absorption, take the B-Vitamin after either breakfast or lunch.

  • Q: How often should the B-Vitamin Complex be taken?

    A: No more than one full dropper per day. It’s best to start out taking a half a dropper per day and then gradually increase to a full dropper, if needed. You can also split the dosage in half, taking a half a dropper in the morning and the other half a dropper in the afternoon.

  • Q: Who can do the HCG diet?

    A: The HCG is diet can be done by almost everyone. Prior to starting any diet, consult with your physician. Anyone under the age of 18 needs to consult with their physician prior to deciding if the HCG diet is right for them, as this product is meant for adults over the age of 18.

  • Q: How much weight can be lost while on the diet?

    A: It ultimately depends on the body, how strictly the diet is followed, etc., however, a half a pound to a pound per day, averaged throughout the diet, is realistic. For a 26 day diet, average weight lost is between 15-25 lbs approximately. For a 40 day diet, average weight lost is between 25-35 lbs approximately.

  • Q: Can 1 to 2 pounds really be lost per day?

    A: Yes, but the amount of weight loss is in direct relation to the amount of abnormal stored fat in the body.

  • Q: What if the amount of weight loss that is wanted, isn’t achieved? Is there a guarantee?

    A: We offer support and encouragement for our customers, via phone, Facebook, and email. Most of our customers who follow the diet strictly, will lose weight. We can’t guarantee how much will be lost; every body is different and every person will adhere to the diet differently.

  • Q: If more drops are taken, will more weight be lost?

    A: No. This will more than likely just mean a depletion of drops at a faster rate.

  • Q: How can the same amount of HCG be used for both a man and a woman or a larger person versus a smaller person?

    A: HCG registers in the brain first, which then signals the body to release abnormally stored fats. As with any diet, it is common that the larger a person is, the faster the body will release the fats stored.

  • Q: How quickly does the weight come off?

    A: The results can be seen and felt within the first week.

  • Q: How much weight can be lost?

    A: That depends on the body, the strictness of following the diet, etc., but about a pound per day can be expected, averaged throughout the week is realistic.

  • Q: What are the health benefits of doing this diet?

    A: Besides losing weight, customers have reported sleeping better, more energy, less anxiety, better health stats, softer skin, more self-confidence, a feeling of cleanliness of the body, and high amounts of motivation to continue on with the diet, due to fast results.

  • Q: Are there any side effects that occur while doing the HCG diet?

    A: Some of our customers have mentioned a headache during the first few days of the 500 calorie diet. This is simply due to a change in eating and the body going through a bit of a detox.

  • Q: Can Vegetarians or Vegans do this diet?

    A: Yes; however, for protein substitutes, choose items that have the least amount of sugar, carbs, and fats such as: Triumph Slim meal replacement shake, three egg whites and one full egg, and a half a cup of skim cottage cheese.

  • Q: What kind of makeup/moisturizer can be used while on the diet?

    A: A person can use both lotions and makeup; however, when choosing lotions for the body or the face, chose oil free, such as Neutrogena oil free moisturizer. Mineral makeup should be used for the face. Eye and lip makeup is not restricted.

  • Q: Can a person have a massage while on the HCG diet?

    A: Yes; massage can benefit in the release of stored fats. Advise the massage therapist to use only mineral oil or Aloe Vera gel as these are the only items that are allowed on the body while on the HCG diet.

  • Q: Can a person exercise at a high intensity while on the HCG diet?

    A: It is recommended to do mild forms of exercise, such as walking, yoga, Pilates, light swimming, light bicycle riding, and even a round of golf.

  • Q: How much exercise is acceptable during the diet?

    A: Exercising during the diet phase should be kept to around 20-30 minutes and should consist of only mild exercises. During the maintenance phase, exercising at least three to four times a week should be incorporated to help aid in maintaining weight loss.

  • Q: What types of vitamins should be taken while on the HCG diet?

    A: We provide a B12 complex for energy and we recommend a very good multi-vitamin as well (Triumph Food Based Multivitamin is a great option). Oily vitamins should be avoided while on the HCG diet.

  • Q: Will the weight lost, be gained back, after stopping the intake of HCG?

    A: It is critical to follow the protocol outlined in Phase Three. After Phase Three, Phase Four should be all of the healthy changes that you learned in Phase Two and Phase Three, implemented into Real Life. Dr. Simeons said that the HCG diet is a Temporary program with Lifetime results. Your ultimate goal on the HCG diet should be to get in the habit of making good choices and adopting a healthier lifestyle. After completing the first phase of the HCG diet you will find that your appetite has changed along with your eating behaviors. The HCG diet is a great opportunity to create a new and healthy lifestyle in order to maintain your weight.

  • Q: When is the best time for someone to start the HCG diet?

    A: For a woman, after her menstrual cycle has ended; for a man, anytime.

  • Q: Can a male do the HCG diet?

    A: Yes. Men naturally produce small amounts of HCG and will often see faster and greater results than women.

  • Q: Will HCG affect a woman’s menstrual cycle?

    A: During your menstrual cycle, you may choose not to do the HCG drops. The level of progesterone in a woman's body during her cycle may prevent HCG from isolating fat reduction. The International Association for Physicians in Aesthetic Medicine quotes Dr. Simeons as saying that the lack of drops during menstruation does not halt weight loss. The diet should continue during a woman's cycle but the drops should begin immediately after her period or extreme hunger may result. Because the amount of HCG present in your body from the drops is so minimal, your menstrual cycle should not change. There should be no changes to your menstrual cycle nor will it affect your ability to become pregnant or increase your chances of becoming pregnant.

  • Q: Will a menstrual cycle affect weight loss?

    A: Yes, it could. The week before or even the week of, could affect hunger, or the water retention in the body; thus, creating a stall in weight loss. Keep taking the HCG, and following the diet; after the end of the cycle, the weight loss will resume.

  • Q: Will taking HCG drops increase fertility?

    A: While research has found that the HCG hormone can be used to help increase fertility, this is when it’s taken in doses that are much higher than those prescribed for the diet. But, to be on the safer side as the HCG levels increase in the body during the diet, it is important to stay on birth control.

  • Q: Will HCG affect the effectiveness of birth control and/or other prescription medications?

    A: HCG does not interact with any prescription medications, including birth control pills. In fact, as you lose weight you may need to be re-evaluated by your Physician as the need for certain medications may need to be reduced.

  • Q: Will HCG cause a false positive on a pregnancy test?

    A: The HCG Diet will not cause a false positive pregnancy test. The amount of HCG in the HCG Drops is diluted. The dilution factor of the HCG drops is high enough that the HCG released in urine is not detectable by the pregnancy test. It is important to mention that pure HCG shots can result in a positive pregnancy test. The shots require a prescription and must be injected into the muscle tissue. The HCG Diet is effective; however, the amount of HCG used is not prescription grade.

  • Q: Can HCG be taken while pregnant or nursing?

    A: NO! HCG should not be taken while pregnant or nursing. A pregnant or nursing body needs the extra calories, plus Glycine (an amino acid found in the ingredients of the HCG) shouldn’t be taken while pregnant or nursing.

  • Q: Do we do automatic billing or shipping?

    A: No. Each order is placed at the time of the customer’s request.

  • Q: Do we ship to other countries?

    A: Yes; we ship all over the world, however, there is an additional shipping charge and it could take upwards of three weeks to receive the package, as this has to clear the receiving countries customs. Canadian orders and international orders are subject to an additional fee for shipping.

  • Q: When an order is placed, when does it ship?

    A: Most orders are shipped on the same business day, if placed before 4:00 p.m., MST. Orders placed over the weekend will be shipped the following Monday.

  • Q: How are the items shipped?

    A: We ship standard orders through the United States Postal Service (the mail), and also offer UPS Ground, USPS Expedited, and UPS Next Day shipping.

  • Q: How long does shipping generally take?

    A: Shipping takes between 5-7 business days when shipped standard, depending on where it is going. UPS Ground takes between 2-7 business days, USPS Expedited takes between 2-3 business days, and Next Day Air is delivered the next day, if the order is placed before 4:00 p.m., MST. The products ship from Salt Lake City, UT. The primary benefit to shipping with UPS is that they do insure the packages shipped with them.

  • Q: What is the Return/Refund policy?

    A: We are confident in the quality and safety of our product and trust that those persons purchasing Sublingual HCG from us know what they are buying. The Hcg Formula sold at HcgDiet.com is a unique formula. It is not meant to treat any kind of disease. We do not offer refunds for opened or damaged products. We do not offer exchanges. If an order comes back to us within 30 days, for any reason international or domestic, of the purchase date, sealed and undamaged, we offer a partial refund. A 20 percent handling and restocking fee will be retained upon refunding. We recommend returning your orders through a form of delivery that can be traced (e.g., UPS), and we require that returned products be received within thirty (30) days from the purchase date. All shipping or courier costs for returned products will be borne solely by the customer unless otherwise prohibited by law. Any damage or loss that occurs to returned products during shipping will be the responsibility of the customer. Should the product arrive at HCGDiet.com damaged (thereby rendering it non-resalable), we will reject the shipment. Partial returns will not be accepted or refunded. At the discretion of HCGDiet.com, products may be exchanged if the products are damaged in shipment. Canceled orders: All canceled orders are subject to a 20% handling, and restocking fee.

  • Q: How long before refunds are applied?

    A: When a refund is applied to an order, it generally takes about a week for it to reflect as a credit on your bank account, depending on how quickly the bank or credit card company processes the transaction.

• HCG Diet Phases and Protocol

  • Q: What is the HCG diet?

    A: The HCG diet is based on the original diet protocol from Dr. Simeons, and has been around since the 1950’s. Dr. Simeons’ research found that HCG causes the hypothalamus area of the brain to trigger a release of abnormal fat stores. When the HCG is taken in relatively small doses and coupled with a very low calorie diet (500 calories per day), people routinely lose an average of one pound a day. The amount of weight lost on the diet depends on the individual body and the participants’ strictness to the diet. The HCG Diet protocol consists of three phases (Loading, HCG diet, and Maintenance). During the HCG diet, the HCG hormone is combined with a 500 calorie diet that signals the Hypothalamus to burn abnormal fat instead of normal and structural fat, which eventually releases around 3500 -4000 calories of energy into the body. This is the first step in stimulating the metabolism and is followed by a 21 day period (Maintenance Phase) where you consume 1200 -1500 calories with emphasis on healthy eating. At the end of the protocol, the eating habits are completely restructured, thus leading to a reset of the hypothalamus.

  • Q: What are the phases of the HCG diet?

    A: There are three phases of the HCG diet: Phase 1: Loading Days- The first two days are known as the loading days. The HCG should be taken three times a day (.38 on the oral syringe - two tiny lines below the .4), 15 to 30 minutes prior to eating or drinking. While in Phase 1, be sure to incorporate high fatty foods (ex: tofu, eggs, salmon, nuts, olives, etc.). Phase 2: Very Low Calorie Diet (500 calories)- Days 3 through 23, or 3 through 38 (if doing the the 40 day diet), will consist of taking the drops three times a day, while adhering to a very low calorie diet of 500 calories per day. Only foods on the allocated list are allowed while in Phase 2. The last three days of Phase 2 (days 24 to 26 or 38 to 40) will still adhere to the 500 calorie diet; however the drops should be stopped. This will insure that the HCG is completely out of the body, prior to starting the maintenance phase. Phase 3: Maintenance- Starting on day 27 or day 41, calories should gradually be increased, which will allow for a stabilization of the metabolism. For the first three days of Phase 3, calories should be increased to around 800 to 1,000 calories per day and should primarily consist of the same foods that were eaten during Phase 2. Days 4 through 7, calories should be increased again to around 1,200 calories per day, and can be done so by incorporating a couple of new foods per day (lean protein, healthy fats, dairy, and vegetables/fruits that are low in starch, carbs, and sugar). After Day 7, calories may be increased again to between 1,300 and 1,500 calories per day, if desired. Refined sugars and carbs should be avoided until after the Maintenance Phase. It is also important to continue to drink plenty of water (between 64 to 120 of ounces of water per day).

  • Q: What can be eaten on the loading days?

    A: Protein: 100 grams - 3 ½ ounces; all visible fat removed; weighed raw; cooked without oil or fat: - choose two protein servings per day. Chicken Breast = 110 Ground Beef = 95% lean = 137 Steak (round/sirloin tip) = 142 Crab = 84 Halibut = 110 Cod = 110 Flounder = 91 Tilapia = 96 Lobster = 90 Shrimp = 106 Veal = 112 Albacore Tuna (packed in water) = 110 Protein substitutions: Slim Meal Replacement = 80 (per scoop) 3 egg whites, 1 whole egg = 121 ½ cup Skim Cottage Cheese = 80 Original Vegan Boca Burger = 70-100 (depending on size) VEGETABLES: measured raw; one vegetable per meal; do not mix; ADJUST the serving sizes to fit your 500 calories per day! – Choose two vegetable servings per day. Asparagus: 10 medium spears = 30 Beet-Greens: 3 cups = 24 Cabbage: 1 cup = 22 Celery: 2 cups = 32 Chard: 3 cups = 21 Cucumber: 1 medium = 45 Fennel: 1 cup = 27 Lettuce: 3 cups green = 15 Onion: ½ cup = 32 Red Radishes: 1 cup sliced = 19 Spinach: 3 cups = 21 Tomatoes: 1 medium = 22 or 1 cup = 27 FRUIT: one fruit per meal; do not mix – choose two fruit servings per day. Apple: medium = 95 Grapefruit: ½ = 44 Orange: large = 86 Strawberries: 10 medium: = 40 MILK: 1 Tablespoon whole milk = 9 calories STARCH: - choose two starches per day (these are not necessary – only if wanted). Melba Toast: 1 = 20 Melba Snack: 2 = 24 Grissini Breadstick: 1 = 20 Wasa Crisp ‘n Light Bread: 1 = 20

  • Q: Are the loading days necessary?

    A: Yes. The loading days serve two purposes: (1) Loading helps the HCG to target the freshest fat reserves, which in turn leads to (2) the HCG attaching itself to the new fat intake, helping you to remain comfortable while on the 500 calorie phase of the diet.

  • Q: Is it necessary to do a body cleanse prior to starting the diet?

    A: No, the body will be doing a bit of a natural cleanse/detox while on the diet so it isn’t necessary to do a body cleanse ahead of time.

  • Q: Is a person hungry while on the diet?

    A: The HCG Triumph formula contains two amino acids for appetite suppression. Some of our customers report toward the end of their diet round, that they couldn’t get to 500 calories, in a day due to feeling full and content. For others, it can be more difficult. We have also heard from some of our customers who have experienced a bit of hunger for the first few days of the diet, before the appetite suppressants kick in. There are ways to combat this such as spreading the allotted daily foods out throughout the day, thereby having smaller portions more often. Cutting food into smaller bites tricks the mind into thinking that you are eating more. Also, keeping water intake constant is reported to be very effective.

  • Q: While on the diet, will 500 calories be enough?

    A: The body is using the abnormally stored fats in the body to burn as calories, so the body is getting what it needs, but through a different route. Should someone be concerned as to if this is an appropriate diet decision for them, it may be best to consult their doctor prior to starting HCG.

  • Q: Can foods be substituted or changed while on the diet?

    A: The foods that are allowed on the diet are scientifically proven to be the most effective with the HCG in weight loss so it is very important to stick to the allotted foods. Occasionally eggs may be eaten in place of meat. Three egg whites and one whole egg should be eaten in place of 100 grams of protein. Eggs may be boiled, poached, or cooked with no oil. 100 grams of non-fat cottage cheese milk may occasionally be eaten instead of meat.

  • Q: How much is 100 grams of Protein?

    A: This is equal to 3.5 ounces or visually, about the size of a regular deck of cards.

  • Q: How many shrimp equal 100 grams?

    A: Always try to weigh your shrimp to get as close to 100 grams as possible, but a close estimate would be: Colossal – 10 shrimp or less Jumbo – 11-15 shrimp Extra Large – 16-20 shrimp Large – 21-30 shrimp Medium -31-35 shrimp Small – 36-45 shrimp Miniature – about 100 shrimp

  • Q: Why isn’t turkey allowed during the diet phase?

    A: Turkey contains tryptophan, an amino acid, which naturally slows down the body’s metabolic rate, which can result in the body burning calories more slowly.

  • Q: Can vegetables be mixed?

    A: Due to the way food is metabolized in the body, it is best keep all of the HCG diet foods simple. The only exceptions are lettuce and spinach, which can be mixed with either a cucumber or a medium tomato.

  • Q: What should I do if my calories eaten throughout the day, don’t add up to 500?

    A: Stick to the allotted foods and the calorie count will be very close to 500. It is very important to get as close to the 500 calories as possible, while eating the foods that are allowed on the protocol. A simple fix can be to increase the serving size of protein to 4 oz. per serving.

  • Q: While on the diet, how much water should you drink per day?

    A: Between a half gallon to a full gallon. Drinking enough water is critical to the diet’s success as the water helps to flush toxins out of the body.

  • Q: How many ounces equal a gallon?

    A: 128 ounces is equivalent to a gallon, 64 ounces is equivalent to a half a gallon.

  • Q: Is flavored water, juice, or diet soda allowed while during the diet phase?

    A: Flavored water (except for Sobe LifeWater Zero), juice, and soda are not allowed during phase 2. Often they contain artificial sweeteners or excess sugar, which is not allowed while on the diet. Some customers have drank Zevia, a naturally flavored, stevia-sweetened, soda while on the diet and have continued to have success, however, it should be advised that due to the carbonation, a stall may still occur.

  • Q: What sweeteners are allowed on the HCG diet?

    A: Stevia is the only approved sweetener on the HCG diet, which we offer in seven different flavors. Other artificial sweeteners, such as Splenda, Sweet-n-Low, Nutrasweet, and Equal contain toxic ingredients such as saccharin, sucralose, and aspartame and should not be used while on the HCG diet.

  • Q: What type of chewing gum is allowed while on the diet?

    A: Xilo Natural Chewing Gum is sweetened with xylitol and is the only gum allowed while on the diet. Xilo is available in Spearmint, Peppermint, Cinnamon, and Fruit Burst.

  • Q: Do the drops need to be taken prior to eating?

    A: Yes. The drops need to be taken at least 15 minutes prior to eating, but should not be taken more than an hour before eating.

  • Q: What should be done if a dose of HCG is missed?

    A: Simply continue on with the diet; it is not necessary to double up on a dose. Just take the next scheduled dose at its regular time, as the HCG stays in your system for up to three days.

  • Q: Why does weight fluctuate throughout the day?

    A: Weight can fluctuate anywhere from a few ounces to a few pounds throughout the day due to various factors, including water (intake and retention), as well as sodium intake, hormones, and gravity. It’s best to weigh yourself only one time per day, just after waking up in the morning. Weighing yourself several times a day will yield different weights, leading to confusion.

  • Q: What happens if cheating occurs?

    A: If food is eaten that is not allowed on the protocol, it could create a stall which could last upwards of three to four days.

  • Q: What about vacations/ going out to eat/ parties/ etc.?

    A: Control what you can control. Drink plenty of water and choose the best options available. If possible, order foods plain. Remember, cheating can create a stall and that stall could last for a few days.

  • Q: Can alcohol be consumed while on the diet?

    A: No. Alcohol is very high in both carbs and sugar and is extremely acidic. Drinking alcohol while on the diet may lead to a stall, which can last for a couple of days. The alcohol (USP Kosher alcohol) included in the formula is a trace amount and will not affect the diet.

  • Q: What are other common reasons for stalls?

    A: Some common reasons for stalling or plateauing are: ~Eating more than 500 calories in a day/not eating enough calories in a day ~Not following the diet protocol ~Eating foods that aren’t allowed on the diet protocol ~Not drinking enough water ~Water Retention May be due to: Menstruation Injury Swelling Consuming too much salt Medications ~Starting a menstrual cycle ~Lack of bowel movements ~Exercising too much/ not enough ~Depletion of fat stores in the body

  • Q: What if regular bowel movements aren’t occurring?

    A: Due to the restricted diet, it is perfectly normal to have a bowel movement only once every two to three days. Drink plenty of water to stay regular and if discomfort persists, try “Smooth Move” tea, which is available at most grocery/ health food stores. Using magnesium and Epsom salt may also be effective at relieving constipation. If needed, consult a physician.

  • Q: What can be done to correct a stall or plateau?

    A: The following can be used should weight loss slow or plateau: ~ Increase water intake. ~ Try adding a glass or two of green tea, per day. ~ Don’t eat two apples for the two fruit servings, or cut down the size of the apple. ~ Cut out all beef. ~ Check all condiments for any form of sugar. ~ If mixing vegetables, stop. ~ If having trouble with constipation, try magnesium, Epsom salt, or Smooth Move tea. Most people find this tea to be very effective and it can generally be found in the “Specialty Food” section of the grocery store or local health food store. It is not unusual to have a bowel movement only once every 2-3 days while on this diet and provided that enough fluids are consumed, this should not lead to any disturbance. If constipated for longer than 4 days without bowel movements, use a suppository or Smooth Move tea. ~ Leave out one or both breadsticks/melba toast. ~ Stop eating out. ~ No diet drinks or cheats. If these tips aren’t working, try an apple day.

  • Q: What is an apple day?

    A: An apple day is a wonderful plateau breaker. Six large apples should be eaten over the course of 24 hours. An example of how the apples should be spread out would be an apple for lunch, an apple for an afternoon snack, an apple for dinner, an apple for an after dinner snack, an apple for breakfast, and then the last apple for a mid-morning snack. It is also important to drink only enough water to quench your thirst while doing an apple day.

  • Q: What is the Apple Cider Vinegar Drink?

    A: This may also be used as a plateau breaker. Mix 2 Tbsp. of raw, organic, unfiltered apple cider vinegar in one large glass of water, then add stevia to taste. Drink through a straw, as apple cider vinegar can be hard on tooth enamel. Do this before each meal for about 2 to 3 days.

• Maintenance Phase

  • Q: What foods should be eaten while in maintenance phase?

    A: The maintenance phase is much more lenient than the 500 calorie phase and although there aren’t specified foods allowed, there are some foods that should be avoided until after maintenance. The following is a list of foods that are considered ok during phase 3 – the maintenance phase: Fruits - Most fruits and berries are ok. No fruit juices. Avoid canned fruits with added sugars or in heavy syrup. Also avoid dry fruit. No canned cranberry sauce (too much sugar). Be careful with grapes and bananas, as they are both very high in sugar. Vegetables - All vegetables are fine, other than those that are high in starch; i.e. potatoes, yams, corn, peas, rutabagas, chicory root, and tomato sauces with added sugars. Meats - All meats are ok at this point. Trim the visible fats and go for the leaner choices. Be careful with hotdogs. Jerkies are ok if they do not have a lot of added sugar (7 grams of carbohydrates per serving or less). All seafood's are fine, but no breaded items (or crab cakes). Dairy - Aim for lower fat options. Cheeses are ok, but don't overindulge. Yogurt or Greek Yogurt is allowed but it should be regular fat and plain (may be sweetened with stevia). Fat-free and low-fat versions of yogurt are usually loaded with carbohydrates. Cottage cheese is fine, but be sure to check the carbohydrates and pick the one with the lowest. Starches/Breads - If you thought you were going to see anything listed as ok, it hasn't yet sunk in - No Starches! Legumes/Beans - Edamame is fine but most other legumes need to be eaten in moderation and in very small quantities. They are quite starchy and need to be eaten with caution. Chili should be avoided. Nuts/Seeds - These are very starchy and need to be eaten with caution. Peanut butter in small quantities may be eaten. One serving a day of 10 -15 nuts is the maximum that should be eaten. If you are having a hard time controlling your weight in phase 3, cut nuts out completely. Condiments - Watch for added sugars and carbohydrates. Low sugar B.B.Q. sauce is ok. No jams and jellies unless they’re sugar-free. Low sugar ketchup is acceptable. Honey mustard has too much sugar. No sweet pickles or sweet pickle relish. Watch out for low-fat salad dressings; many have added sugars and you may be better off going with the regular higher fat versions. Fats/Oils - Ok in small amounts. Sauces - Be mindful of starchy gravies made with a lot of corn starch or flour. If the sauce tastes really sweet, it probably has a lot of added sugars and should be avoided.

  • Q: What foods CANNOT be eaten on the maintenance phase?

    A: Squash, bananas, carrots, corn, dried fruits, mangos, parsnips, peas, plantains, potatoes, root vegetables, breads, canned fruit, cookies, crackers, corn meal, energy drinks, frosting, granola, ice cream, lentils, oatmeal, pie, popcorn, pretzels, tortillas, yams, beans, cakes, cool whip, cornstarch, cupcakes, fast food, fruit juice, honey, ketchup, maple syrup, pancakes, pita bread, processed foods, pudding, soda, Velveeta, biscuits, brownies, candy, chocolate, corn chips, corn syrup, donuts, flour, grains, hot dogs, Kool-Aid, muffins, pasta, polenta, potato chips, rice, taco shells, and white flour.

  • Q: What is a Steak Day?

    A: A Steak Day works to naturally correct the metabolism when an excess of calories has occurred the previous day. This decrease in calories evens out the metabolism by working through the hypothalamus, allowing the body to further stabilize itself in Phase 3.

  • Q: What do I eat on a Steak Day?

    A: The Steak Day requires that you abstain from all food during the day and eat one large steak as your evening meal. The steak should be cooked in oil or butter and should be eaten with one apple or a raw tomato. Drink plenty of water to quench your thirst.

  • Q: When is a Steak Day Needed?

    A: A Steak Day is needed during Phase 3 when your morning weight exceeds the weight you weighed on the last day of Phase 2, by more than two pounds.

  • Q: When Should a Steak Day take place?

    A: Dr. Simeons states in “Pounds and Inches” that “it is of utmost importance that the meal is skipped on the same day that the scale registers an increase of more than two pounds and that missing the meals is not postponed until the following day. If a meal is skipped on the day in which a gain is registered in the morning, this brings about an immediate drop of often over a pound.”

  • Q: What size of Steak should I eat?

    A: The steak eaten should be a large serving of beef, around 12-16 ounces. It may be any cut of meat that you prefer including a Porterhouse, T-bone, Rib-eye, New York Strip, Filet Mignon, Kobe Beef, or Sirloin Steak.

  • Q: What if it’s been more than 24 hours since the 2 lb. increase and I didn’t do a Steak Day?

    A: The proper procedure to follow when a needed Steak Day is missed should be to simply use the new weight (2 or more pounds higher than the last Phase 2 day) and use this as your new maintenance weight. The remaining days of Phase 3 will need to be carefully monitored to ensure that no further weight is gained and that the new maintenance weight is held. In cases where this happens, it is not productive to try a Steak Day the second day or to try two Steak Days in a row.

  • Q: What is the modified Steak Day?

    A: A modified Steak Day can be used in place of a Steak Day and is generally just as productive. If doing a modified Steak Day, eat two hard-boiled eggs for breakfast, an apple for lunch, and a large steak for dinner (8-10 ounces) with either a small side salad or a medium raw tomato. Be sure to drink plenty of water to quench your thirst throughout the day.

  • Q: Is there an option for vegetarians and/or those who don’t like steak?

    A: Yes, it’s called an Egg Day. Here’s how it works: You are allowed to eat a total of 12 whole eggs and nothing else throughout the course of the day. The eggs can be prepared anyway that you choose, and remember to drink lots of water while doing the Egg Day; this should help you to lose between 1 to 3 lbs. within the following 24 hours.

  • Q: What is the difference between an Apple Day and a Steak Day?

    A: The Apple Day is to be used to break a stall or plateau during the 500 calorie phase; whereas the steak day should be used during the maintenance phase, should your weight go up or down more than 2 pounds.

  • Q: What is a healthy weight range?

    A: The following charts are based on BMI only but can used as a general idea for a healthy weight range. Consult your doctor for exacts.