What is the HCG Weight Loss Program?

The HCG weight loss program is a medically supervised weight loss plan that combines a specific eating pattern with regular, small doses of the HCG hormone. This strategy triggers the body to release stored fat into the bloodstream for energy, allowing for rapid weight loss without the intense hunger often caused by a calorie deficit.

HCG Weight Loss At A Glance

At A Glance Detail
Duration 30-Day Program
Average Loss 0.5 – 1 lb per day (Women), 0.75 – 1.5 lbs per day (Men)
Hunger Level Low to none due to released fat calories
Supervision Guided by medical professionals

What is HCG?

HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) is a hormone naturally produced in large quantities during pregnancy and is used in infertility treatment for both men and women.


ATW Simeons found that small regular doses of HCG caused the body to release abnormal fat when used in conjunction with a specific 500 calorie daily diet. This is detailed in Dr. Simeons Manuscript: Pounds and Inches: A New Approach to Obesity. This low-calorie diet is only comfortable and advisable with HCG.

Most participants are not hungry and have plenty of energy. Our Chicago HCG weight loss program is safe for men and even works faster for men. While women typically lose .5 lb. – 1lb. per day, men typically lose .75 lb. – 1.5 lbs. per day. Again, HCG is prescribed for men with certain medical conditions, so this is not the only use of HCG with men.

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Benefits of the HCG Program


Instead of turning to fad diets or invasive weight loss surgery, many patients find HCG offers a middle ground to promote weight loss effectively.

  • Targeted Reduction: Specifically addresses fat in the shoulders, arms, and thighs rather than structural fat.
  • Muscle Preservation: Unlike some weight loss medications, HCG helps you maintain weight while burning fat, so you don't lose lean tissue.
  • Metabolic Support: Helping to maintain your resting metabolic rate makes it easier to maintain weight loss later.
  • Reduced Health Risks: Getting down to a normal weight reduces the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure.
  • Fast Momentum: A significant amount of weight can be lost in just 30 days, providing the motivation to stick with healthy living.

How is the HCG weight loss program different from any other diet out there?

When an obese patient tries to reduce by starving himself, he will first lose his normal fat reserves. When these are exhausted, he begins to burn up structural fat, and only as a last resort will the body yield its abnormal reserves, though by that time the patient usually feels so weak and hungry that the diet is abandoned.

It is just for this reason that obese patients complain that when they diet they lose the wrong fat. They feel famished and tired and their face becomes drawn and haggard, but their belly, hips, thighs, and upper arms show little improvement. The fat they have come to detest stays on and the fat they need to cover their bones gets less and less. Their skin wrinkles and they look old and miserable. And that is one of the most frustrating and depressing experiences a human being can have.

HCG Weight Loss program patient model in black swimsuit

How exactly does HCG allow you to lose weight?

The HCG allows your body to tap into your body’s abnormal fat deposits (shoulders, upper arms, hips, thighs, and buttocks).


In obese clients, these deposits are not usually accessible to the body for fat consumption. The HCG present in the body allows these abnormal fat deposits to be tapped, releasing the abnormal fat into the blood stream and out of the body. This release of fat is also why clients taking the HCG are not hungry. The HCG releases 1500-4000 calories per day into the bloodstream. This is the ONLY reason why it is okay to be on a 500-calorie diet. Without the HCG releasing the abnormal fat and, therefore, thousands of calories into the bloodstream, the client would be starving and be facing excess nutritional deficiency.

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Why the 500-calorie diet?


You are on a VLCD (very low-calorie diet) phase of the HCG diet. You are allowed only 500 calories because while you are on the HCG hormone, your body is releasing 1500-4000 calories from abnormal fat into your bloodstream each day. So, with the 500 calories you are consuming plus the 1500-4000 calories being released into your system, you are actually getting the benefit of (500 + 1500-4000) = 2000-4500 calories each day. Of course being on a 500 calorie diet will help you to lose weight.

Am I a Candidate for HCG Weight Loss?


Ideal candidates are individuals struggling with overweight and obesity who have not seen results from aerobic exercise or strength training alone. It is a great option for those who want to avoid bariatric surgery but need more help than a standard healthy diet provides.

You should be in good health to start. This program is not for those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have certain kidney diseases. During your initial visit, our healthcare professional will review your body mass index (BMI) and medical history to ensure the program is safe for you.

Why Choose HCG Over Other Medical Options?


While newer weight loss medications are popular, HCG remains a favorite for Chicago patients who want an intensive 30-day specific plan. Many other options require you to stay on meds for years to avoid weight regain. HCG acts as a reset for your eating habits and metabolic rate. It encourages a diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats like olive oil once the intensive phase is over, helping you move toward a healthy body weight permanently.

HCG Weight Loss Results


Because of the rapid weight loss, patients often have incredible success stories to share. Women typically lose 20-30 pounds in a cycle, while men often lose more weight. These results are settled and lasting if you use the 30-day window to establish better eating patterns and a commitment to physical activity.

Consultation Required

If you'd like to learn more about our HCG weight loss program Chicago aesthetic professionals at Michael Horn Plastic Surgery & Med Spa can answer any questions you have and address any concerns during an initial consultation. Contact the office or fill out the online appointment request to schedule an appointment. The cost of the program includes:

  • HCG Prescription
  • Vitamins
  • Injection Needles
  • Alcohol Wipes
  • Band-Aids
  • Special Gift with Purchase
slim HCG Weight Loss Program patient model sunning at a beach wearing a white bikini

HCG FAQs

HCG doesn't just trick your brain; it provides actual energy by releasing stored fat into your blood. Your body feels satisfied because it is consuming thousands of calories of its own fat.

To avoid weight gain after the 30 days, we help you transition into a long-term weight loss strategy that includes a balanced diet and regular aerobic activity.

Unlike fad diets that cause you to lose water weight or muscle, HCG targets fat while preserving the tissue you need to stay healthy.

Yes. You should always consult with medical professionals before starting a very low-calorie plan to ensure you don't have underlying medical conditions that would make it unsafe.

We recommend a transition to a diet of whole grains, lean meats, and plenty of vegetables. Adding strength training later is also a great way to build muscle and keep your metabolism high.

Groups like the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases provide great resources on the long-term impact of maintaining a healthy body weight.