Lose Weight with HCG??
A Google search of HCG and weight loss returns over 23 million results and most of them tout the benefits and encourage the use of it. HCG and its connection to weight loss is nothing new. HCG is short for humanchorionic gonadotropin, a hormone secreted during the gestation of a baby. It is the same hormone detected in a pregnancy test. In 1954 a British physician A.T.W. Simeons initiated a new method of dieting where the subject would consume 500 calories per day in addition to injections of HCG. Simeons contended that HCG did nothing to promote more weight loss; its purpose was to help participants tolerate the severe calorie restriction and mobilize fat deposits from specific parts of the body such as the abdomen, hip and thigh.
Losing weight at a rate of a pound a day may sound tempting, especially if you’ve been struggling with weight issues for a long time. If you dig deeper than those first million Google results and turn instead to trusted sources such as the National Institute of Health (NIH) and the Food and Drug Association (FDA) you will uncover some startling scientifically proven facts.
- There is no statistically significant difference between HCG and placebo groups in weight loss, percent of weight loss, hip and waist circumference, weight loss per injections, or in hunger ratings. HCG does not appear to enhance the effectiveness of a rigidly imposed regimen for weight reduction
- The 500 calorie restriction is far lower than that required for average men and women of about 2500 and 2100 respectively. It would be impossible to take in all the nutrients required for healthy living on only 500 calories.
- There are severe risks associated with HCG. Today, HCG has crossed over from the prescription only to the over counter and homeopathic markets. Because of this, controls on contents and delivery are not as safe. Consumers cannot be sure of contents especially when procured on line from questionable sources. The FDA considers the dissemination of HCG for weight loss illegal.
- Complications of HCG use can include: headache, blood clots, restlessness, leg cramps, constipation, temporary hair thinning, depression and male breast enhancement. HCG can leave you feeling the side effects of pregnancy- swelling, breast tenderness, and water retention. More serious, a potentially life threatening condition can occur called ovarian hyper stimulation syndrome. This can cause abdominal pain, weight gain, blood clots, kidney failure, fluid buildup in the abdomen and chest, and electrolyte imbalances.
- In increased level of HCG can facilitate pregnancy. In fact that is the only FDA authorized use of the hormone- infertility. So a female not necessarily trying to get pregnant should be aware of the risk.
- HCG is expensive. A cycle of doctor supervised injectible HCG can cost from $500-$1000. Drops, pills and sprays can cost anywhere from $40 to $249.
*Our moms told us, “If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.” If you don’t believe mom, listen to this, “If there’s an exercise pill, I would have had it, and then it would have become one of my favorite things, and I would have told you all about it,” Oprah Winfrey.
Sources:
- Am J Clin Nutr. 1976 Sep; 29(9):940-8. Ineffectiveness of human chorionic gonadotropin in weight reduction: a double-blind study. Stein MR, Julis RE, Peck CC, Hinshaw W, Sawicki JE, Deller JJ Jr.
- S Afr Med J. 1990 Feb 17;77(4):185-9. Human chorionic gonadotrophin and weight loss. A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Bosch B, Venter I, Stewart RI, Bertram SR.
- FDA Consumer Updates Page Elisabeth Walther, FDA pharmacist Dec. 6, 2011
In Loving Memory of Jerry Turetzky
It is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to one of our beloved clients, Jerry. Despite major medical challenges that would most likely have sidelined many, Jerry continued to maintain a consistent approach to improving his health and overall well being. Jerry started coming to BodyBasics in September of 2007 via the prompting of several loved ones around him who thought it would help him to decrease pain and increase his energy. Jerry brightened our days with his love and joyful zest for life. He was always quick with a smile and a witty retort. We will miss you, friend.
Asparagus – A Vegetable You Can Love!
Here’s a quick, delicious and healthy way to prepare asparagus. You won’t even miss the butter or sauces that usually overpower this delicate vegetable. Asparagus is one of the most nutritionally well-balanced vegetables — high in folic acid and a good source of potassium, fiber, thiamin, and vitamins A, B6, and C. A 5-ounce serving provides 60% of the RDA for folic acid and is low in calories. It is even alleged to have medicinal and aphrodisiac qualities. So eat up!
Ingredients:
- Fresh or Frozen Asparagus
- 2 cups Low Sodium Chicken Stock (canned or homemade)
- 1 Tablespoon Minced Garlic
- Sprinkle Low Sodium Seasoning
Directions:
Bring the chicken stock and minced garlic to a simmer in a large frying pan. Add only enough asparagus to cover the bottom of the pan. Cook for 2-5 minutes. Watch for doneness by picking up a stalk with a pair of tongs. If it wiggles it is done. Cook the asparagus in small batches and it will finish cooking completely on the plate. Sprinkle with seasoning and enjoy.
Nutrition Facts:
33 calories, 1 gram fat, 3 grams carbs, 6 grams protein, 21 mg sodium, 310mg potassium, RDA Percentages: 29% vitamin A, 73% vitamin C, 3% calcium, 8% iron.
Client Spotlight
Client SpotlightDr. Eve Shapiro
Eve is a local pediatrician who tirelessly advocates for quality health care. In her practice, she focuses on healthy living and preventative care and she leads by example. Eve celebrates a milestone birthday this month of sixty years young with a duathalon attended by family and friends. She is a member of Tucson Tri-Girls a triathlon group and has completed numerous races. Eve has been a consistent client of BodyBasics for over eight years. She attends the 7 am group workout as a means to cross train for the next event.
Eve, we wish you a very happy birthday and continued good health.
Chris, Kris, Mike, Maureen, Nick and Amelia
Next Boot Camp starts April 9th. There are still a few spaces available.
Next Boot Camp starts April 9th. There are still a few spaces available.Camp meets at Orange Grove Middle School Mondays,Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Click here to for more details or to sign up.
Bootcamper Anna couldn’t resist sharing her experience: After graduating college, I knew I wanted and needed to get back in shape for my wedding. I chose I Do… Boot Camp. Amelia Olsen, the trainer for I Do…Bootcamp will not only help you look and feel your best for your wedding, you will have fun doing it! Check out the full blog on Tucson Bride and Groom’s website.
Congratulations Patty!
Patty is the winner of a free session and a $100 gift certificate to our favorite footwear store, All About Running and Walking. How did she get so lucky? Patty is a neuromuscular therapist and a client of Maureen’s. Patty has felt such an improvement in her strength and day to do functioning that she referred her client Marge to BodyBasics. With each referral, a client is entitled to a free session and a trip to the referral reward board.
Congratulations Marge!
Congratulations Marge!Marge is the winner of a wonderful gift certificate to the Village Bakehouse. She’ll be enjoying a post workout treat on us because she referred Paula Gonzales to BodyBasics. Who do you know and love that needs to move better and feel better? Let us know and we’ll send them a free gift certificate to come in and see how we can work together toward better health and fitness. Click here and ttell us who needs to get started right away!
Farewell to our teammate….
After four years of dedication to bettering the lives of numbers of clients, our Mike Donelan has decided to move away from Tucson to be closer to family. Mike D. started training with BodyBasics in June of 2008. His twenty plus years experience as a trainer as well as his skill set for training individuals with special need made him a great fit.
Once hired Mike quickly established himself as one who could be counted on at almost any time of day for training. This client first attitude is something we will always remember about Mike Donelan. By making himself very accessible for training, Mike quickly filled his schedule. He loved to be busy, especially with clients with disabilities or other special needs. Mike was instrumental in changing lives and there are countless testimonials from clients who Mike has forever touched.
Mike, it is with the utmost respect and appreciation for all you have offered to the BodyBasics community that we say, “Thank you”. You will be greatly missed. God bless you as and your future endeavors.
Dave’s Run for ALS
March 18th 5 K & Family Fun Run
Sponsored by BodyBasics & Southern Arizona Road Runners
Train for These Future Events:
- June 2 TMC Meet Me Downtown Night Run
- September 4 TMC Saguaro Labor Day Run
- October 21 TMC Get Moving Tucson Half-Marathon, Tucson Lifestyle 5k, and Cox Charities 1 Mile
Exercise of the Month: Diaphragmatic Breathing
Pay attention to your breath. Chances are that as you’re reading this you’re taking shallow breaths and only inflating a small portion of your lungs. In this video, Maureen and Nick will show you how the simple act of deep breathing can in fact improve your movement quality. Try it yourself before a workout or anytime you’re feeling stressed. Click here to see the demonstration.
Next Youth Class Starts March 12th
Class meets Monday and Thursday nights from 5:00 to 6:00 pm. Children 7 to 10 years old engage in fun activities and increase their athleticism. Call 498-0359 to register.
Your BodyBasics Team
