Sheri L. Emma, MD - HCG Weight Loss Specialist

Dr. Emma’s HCG Diet Program

There is a lot of information out on the “HCG Diet” on the internet, in various books, and other sources.  However, much of what you hear or read may not be consistent with Dr. Emma’s HCG Diet Program.  Dr. Emma has spent years conducting research and clinical trials.  As a result, she has formulated a very specific program for the use of HCG.  If you have any questions about your HCG Program at any time, be sure to defer to your program manager, nurse, or provider.  We are always happy to answer any questions at any time.

Dr. Emma’s HCG Diet Program uses specific medical dosing of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) during a low calorie diet.  The HCG is a hormone that is made by the body during pregnancy.  It is a natural, protein hormone that acts as a precursor in the bodies of both men and women to produce hormones such as testosterone, estrogen, progesterone, and thyroid hormones.  The act of stimulating these hormones in very low levels appears to help the body sustain lean body mass while dieting.  Normally, a very low calorie diet will produce weight loss, however there will be a loss of muscle and lean tissues.  The HCG appears to help counteract that.

There is also a reported anecdotal loss of appetite.  This takes a couple of days since the hormone takes a few days (approximately 48-72 hours) to build in the bloodstream to the typical therapeutic dose.  Therefore, when starting a medical regimen of HCG for weight loss, it is advised to not start the diet until 2-3 days after beginning the medication.   This allows time to prepare by going to the store for food and planning meals for the week.

The weight loss expected on an HCG Program is dependent upon the degree of obesity at the start of the program.  That is because the weight loss is diet dependent.  One needs to consume far less than their body requires in a day in order to see rapid weight loss.  The closer someone gets to their ideal body weight, the slower weight loss is due to the fact that their body is leaner and doesn’t require as many calories as when they are obese.  Due to the nature of the HCG program, it is customary to see a minimum of half a pound per day, up to greater than one pound per day.  Individual results vary and are affected by baseline metabolism, medical conditions, and compliance.

The length of time someone can be on HCG for weight loss is, at this time, unlimited.  The use of HCG for weight loss involves a very low dose of a low risk medication.  There appears to be very low occurrence of rebound, no dependency, and a positive effect on metabolism.  Therefore, one can continue on Dr. Emma’s HCG Diet Program until their goal is reached, or until progress ceases, at which time one will enter a Transition to Maintenance program.

HOW DO I TAKE THIS MEDICATION?

Dr. Emma and her team have done extensive research on the various modes of HCG administration including injections, oral drops, and pills.  Research concluded that the only way to get HCG into the bloodstream is through injection.  It may sound intimidating, but these tiny ¼” insulin needles, usually administered in the belly, are basically painless and extremely easy to self-administer.  Your provider will walk you through the process and ensure that you are 100 percent comfortable upon initiation of your program.

WHAT IS MY DIET LIKE?

The diet is customized for each patient based on their current weight, age, sex, and weight loss goals.  Your weight loss team will generate your custom diet plan and counsel you on the initiation and progress of your diet.  Every aspect of your weight loss program, though based in certain similar principles, is custom.

GETTING STARTED

When you are ready to get started on your program, contact one of Dr. Emma’s representatives for your initial phone appointment.  A nurse will phone you to discuss your medical history and submit the report for medical review by a practitioner.  If any further information is needed you will be notified.  Otherwise you will be scheduled for your start of your program.  A bloodwork panel is required to start treatment.  Any tests including blood tests from another doctor within the past year can be reviewed by the medical team to determine if any further tests are required prior to starting your diet.  The interviewing nurse can be notified if you have any tests for review and she will tell you where to send them.

PROGRAM CONSULTATION

The office staff is trained to answer scheduling and program pricing questions and can give you an estimate of your start-up and program costs.  We do not accept insurance but would be happy to help with a payment plan, should that be needed.  We are happy to make this program a pleasant, supportive experience in any way that we can.

MEMBERSHIP

Any patient of Dr. Emma’s receives all diet training, history, physical exam, medical evaluation, and ongoing weigh-ins and counseling throughout their program.  This is an all-inclusive program for a single cost.  We also offer a membership for patients that have completed their intensive weight loss program, but are looking for continued support through weigh-in visits, support groups, and counseling services.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON DR. EMMA’S HCG PROGRAM, PLEASE CALL.

NOTE: THE FDA HAS NOT APPROVED AND DOES NOT SUPPORT THE USE OF HCG AS A WEIGHT LOSS DRUG.