The HCG diet first emerged in the 1970s and, after a period of quiet, made a strong comeback, promoted as a way to lose 20-30 pounds in just a month or so. Its appeal lies in its simplicity—stick to a very low-calorie diet while using HCG supplements, and you can reportedly lose weight quickly and effectively. But this has left many wondering: what exactly are HCG diet drops made from?
### What Are HCG Diet Drops?
HCG diet drops are derived from a human hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG). This hormone is naturally produced in the bodies of pregnant women after conception. Its primary role is to protect the fetus during the first three months of pregnancy. Clinically, HCG is also used to stimulate ovulation when administered via injection. For creating HCG supplements, the hormone is extracted, synthesized into a powder, and then used to produce the diet drops.
### How Are HCG Diet Drops Made?
HCG drops are synthesized from the HCG hormone. Originally, HCG treatments for weight loss were only available in the form of injections. With injections, the hormone directly enters the bloodstream and begins to work immediately—a method commonly used for fertility treatments. Eventually, a drop form was developed, making the treatment more accessible. To create these drops, HCG powder is mixed with sterile water, stored in containers, and consumed in very small doses. Users typically place about 10 drops under their tongue, hold them there for a few moments, and then swallow. Once absorbed into the bloodstream, the drops are said to suppress hunger and reset metabolic function. However, these drops are far less concentrated than injections, so larger amounts may be required to achieve similar effects.
### Are All HCG Drops Homeopathic?
If you’re considering the HCG diet, you’ve probably come across products marketed as “homeopathic HCG drops.” These are often claimed to be safer and easier to use than injections or traditional drops. But are all HCG drops homeopathic? No, they aren’t—and the distinction is actually quite important.
Homeopathic HCG drops are highly diluted versions of the real thing. This dilution occurs because, legally, HCG is only available by prescription. To skirt this requirement, manufacturers dilute the hormone and label it as “homeopathic,” which allows them to sell it without a prescription. These products typically contain insignificant amounts of HCG, meaning they’re unlikely to have much effect on the body. While homeopathic drops are cheaper and more accessible, they are often scams with little to no real impact on weight loss. Genuine or prescription HCG, whether in injections or drops, contains a meaningful amount of the hormone necessary for effectiveness.
### Beware of Homeopathic HCG Drops
While homeopathic HCG drops may appear to be a convenient and cost-effective option, they are rarely worth the money. Without enough of the hormone to make an actual impact, these products often fail to produce significant results. Worse, many sellers of homeopathic drops are not legitimate, and consistent scams have been uncovered in the marketplace. If you’re serious about trying the HCG diet, it is crucial to obtain prescription-approved HCG from a trusted source. It may be more expensive, but it ensures authenticity, effectiveness, and, most importantly, safety.
### Use HCG Drops Responsibly
If you decide to try the HCG diet, it’s important to use the drops responsibly. Stick to the specific time frame and adhere to the prescribed low-calorie intake of about 500 calories per day. Continuing the HCG diet for longer than recommended may lead to complications, so adhering to the guidelines is key to avoiding unnecessary risks.
Choosing real HCG drops over homeopathic versions is essential for seeing actual results. Remember, your health should always come first, and shortcuts are rarely the right path when it comes to weight loss.