There is no question about it. Used properly according to approved protocols, the answer to the question “is HCG safe?” is yes for over 99% of the population. The main concerns fall under four categories:

1. source and quality
2. method of taking the substance
3. dangers of the Very Low Calorie Diet
4. Possible side-effects

Let’s look that these and address them one at a time.

Know What You’re Getting

While liquid HCG drops manufactured in the U.S. have been shows to be safe AND effective, the same cannot be said for HCG injections obtained from overseas sources. It is important to do your due diligence and learn as much as possible about the source from which you are obtaining your supply.

The manufacture and sale of HCG in most foreign countries is not regulated. On the other hand, domestic suppliers must be licensed laboratories that follow all regulations issued by the federal governing bodies as well as the Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia, which are quality control guidelines for the homeopathic remedy industry.

Injections vs. Drops

First of all, it is illegal in most states for individuals to obtain injectable HCG without a doctor’s prescription. Today, this form of HCG is used by fertility clinics, where men and women facing infertility receive injections under the supervision of a licensed fertility specialist.

Secondly, HCG injections must be prepared in a very specific manner. This form of HCG has two parts: a powdered form of the hormone, and sterile water treated with a bacteriostatic agent. These two elements must be mixed carefully in a sterile container prior to being placed in the syringe. This issue aside, injections are very uncomfortable for most individuals, and can even cause long-term pain at the injection site.

Liquid HCG is simply taken under the tongue and held for several minutes while it is absorbed into the bloodstream. It should not be swallowed, as its effectiveness can be destroyed by stomach acid before it can be properly absorbed.

The low calorie diet

It’s true: the low calorie-per-day diet called for under programs that are based on Dr. Simeons’ protocols constitutes as a starvation diet. This is not something you want to try on your own. In fact, if not done properly it could be dangerous. That is why you should only attempt while following the protocol set for you by companies knowledgeable about Dr. Simeons’ theories on HCG and weight loss.

HCG controls your body’s metabolism in such a way that it is forced to obtain those extra calories from your excess fat deposits, which are rich in energy and nutrients. This is why the HCG diet is so safe and effective.

Side Effects

It is true that a very small percentage of the population will experience some negative side effects while taking HCG. Although exceedingly rare, these side effects may include any or all of the following:

• headaches
• diarrhea or constipation
• mood swings or depression
• water retention

In addition, when used with young children, HCG may trigger early onset of puberty. It is not recommended for treating children except under a physician’s supervision.

Tags: Dr. Simeons, Is HCG Safe, Very Low Calorie Diet

This entry was posted on Friday, January 29th, 2010 at 8:00 am and is filed under HCG Drops. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.