Human Chorionic Gonadotropin ( HCG )
What is HCG?
HCG is the major hormone secreted by the placenta during pregnancy. The use of HCG in
the treatment of obesity was first discovered by the late British Physician, Dr. A. T. W.
Simeons. He published his first report on the topic in 1954, while practicing in Rome, Italy.
He devoted years to researching various patients suffering from obesity. During this time, he
made several important observations regarding the use of HCG along with a very low calorie
diet. He observed the lack of symptoms one would expect from a patient on a very low calorie
diet. For example, his patients did not suffer with headaches, hunger pains, weakness, or
irritability as long as the low calorie diet was combined with HCG. Since that time, several
medical studies have shown that when combined with a low calorie diet, HCG promotes
increased fat loss, decreased appetite, and a greater loss of inches than experienced
without HCG.
Is HCG FDA Approved?
HCG is an FDA approved substance, but is not approved for the treatment of obesity despite
over 13 studies that document the efficacy of HCG in fat loss. Federal law allows a licensed
medical practitioner to prescribe FDA approved medications for indications other than for
which it was initially approved. The is referred to as "off label" prescribing and most
physicians prescribe many common medications for off label purposes. In fact, many
medications eventually receive new FDA indications years after innovative physicians began
using these medications for "off label" purposes.
What Are The Benefits of HCG?
HCG appears to result in a greater loss of inches - not necessarily pounds. There are many
theories as to how HCG assists with fat loss. As our knowledge of the science of obesity
becomes more detailed, theories become more solid along with our understanding. For
example, a recent research study showed how HCG administration increased levels of a fat
derived protein hormone called Adiponectin. This hormone plays a key role in the
suppression of the metabolic abnormalities that result in type 2 diabetes, obesity,
atherosclerosis and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease .
Can Anyone take HCG?
Although HCG is extremely safe (every pregnant woman in the history of the world has been
exposed to hundreds of thousands of units), there are a few medical conditions that prevent
us from prescribing this natural substance. This will be assessed and discussed during
your physical examination. While many physicians follow the Simeons Protocol, Dr. Croland
follows the very successful protocol developed by Dr. Michael P. Girouard who practices at
the Weight Loss & Wellness Clinic in Huntersville, NC. We are pleased to offer these weight
loss services to the South Charlotte, NC area.
To Learn more about joining our medical weight loss programs:
Learn2Lose Center For Weight Management
| 216 West North Main Street Waxhaw, NC 28173 (704) 243-7106 www.Learn2Lose.com |