HCG Diet and Water Intake – 8 Important Points

Water is incredibly important on any diet, but especially so on the HCG diet. When you are trying to lose weight or tone your body, hydration and retention of water is key.

Not only does water help to keep you feeling fuller for longer, but it also helps to flush out toxins and waste from your body.

By drinking plenty of water each day, you will be sure to stay on track with your HCG diet weight loss goals!

Here are some important notes that you should know about water intake while on the protocol:

1. Water requirements according to the HCG diet protocol

The HCG diet is a very restrictive way of eating. According to the creator, Dr. A.T.W Simeons, the dieters are only allowed to drink water, coffee, tea, fresh squeezed lemon. They must drink at least two liters or half a gallon of water per day. This is in order to help the body break down and burn the fat that has been stored on the body.

2. Is there such thing as too much water intake?

The answer is yes. According to a study of MRL Santa Barbara – 3 liters or or .65 gallons of water quickly consumed, could actually kill you –  if you are a person sensitive to water poisoning (hyponatremia). A condition in which the level of sodium in the blood is abnormally low, and which can result in brain damage.

 

3. How to know if you’re drinking enough water?

Water is an essential nutrient for the body and it is recommended that people drink at least eight glasses of water per day. However, many people don’t drink enough water and this can have negative consequences for their health.

If you’re not sure if you’re drinking enough water, here are some signs to look for:

• Urine color

The most common sign is a change in urine color, which may range from pale to dark. Dehydration can cause changes in the odor and consistency of urine. In extreme cases, dehydration can lead to kidney failure and even death.

It is important to drink enough fluids throughout the day to replace what you lose through sweating and urinating. It is also important not to dehydrate too quickly; if you are feeling thirsty but urinating less than usual or having darker urine, it is best to slowly increase your water intake over time rather than abruptly drinking more liquids.

• Weigh yourself

Our body is made up of over 60% water, and we need water replacement to rid our bodies of excess sodium. If you’re not drinking enough water and your body is dehydrated, your body is actually going to hold on to water and you may see irregular rising on the scale. For example, you have a jump up of salt intake, then your body is retaining water to compensate for all the sodium you took in.

• Dry mouth

If you are experiencing a dry mouth, it is important to, drink plenty of fluids of course and replenish your body’s stores of water. You can also take supplements such as aqua-hydrate or hydrating tablets if you find that fluids alone aren’t satisfying your thirst adequately. Finally, if all else fails, speak to your doctor about possible underlying causes.

• Frequent Headaches

If you are experiencing a headache due to dehydration, it is important to start drinking plenty of fluids and replacing lost electrolytes. Dehydration can also lead to headaches because the body is trying to conserve water, which can cause tension in the neck and scalp.

To prevent a headache from dehydration, drink at least 16 ounces (around 1/2l or 2 glasses full) of fluids per hour and eat foods that contain electrolytes such as hydrating fruits like watermelon.

• Feeling lightheaded

When you’re dehydrated, your blood doesn’t have enough fluid to carry oxygen and nutrients to your cells. This can make you feel lightheaded and dizzy. Drink lots of fluids throughout the day – even if you don’t feel thirsty. If the lightheadedness persists, talk to your doctor.

• Sore throat 

Dehydration can cause your throat tissues to dry out, making it more difficult for mucous to flow and form a protective layer. This can lead to inflammation and even infection in your throat.

 

4. What kind of water is advisable with the HCG Diet?

According to Dr. Simeon, HCG users should drink plain and mineral water during their weight loss regimen. Mineral water is especially beneficial, as it is rich in antioxidants and contains important electrolytes like sodium and potassium.

Carbonated or sparkling water can be used as a way to add variation and more choices, since you may miss some soda-like beverages during this restrictive phase of your life.

By creating your own fizzy drinks you can avoid the harmful chemicals or additives in sugary beverages, which could jeopardize your fat loss goals. Nothing is more refreshing than a sparkling lemon water.

Luckily, there are many delicious and healthy sparkling lemon water recipes out there. Some of our favorites include a sugar-free lemonade recipe made with fresh lemon juice and sparkling water with some added stevia. Also remember there are no restrictions on Coffee or Tea, which could also be made into refreshing drinks.

Use caffeine-free products if you consume larger quantities.

 

5. Add some Stevia to your sparkling drinks

As a sweetener you can use Stevia. It is a natural sweetener that can be found as a supplement or in food. It has a low glycemic index, meaning it does not raise blood sugar levels quickly.

Stevia can be used in place of sugar in many recipes or as a sweetener on its own, and comes in various flavors like vanilla, mint, strawberry, and raspberry.

 

6. Important Nutrients your body needs during the Diet

Other electrolytes that are important to maintain during a HCG diet are magnesium and potassium. Magnesium helps to keep your heart rate stable and assists in the absorption of calcium. Potassium is also essential for maintaining normal nerve function and muscle control. It can also help to speed up the metabolism.

Some good sources of potassium are mineral water and vegetables that are already included in the HCG diet food plan, like: Spinach, Broccoli, Beet greens.

7. How does water help the diet?

Water is essential for the HCG diet, as it helps to regulate the body’s hydration levels. When the body is properly hydrated, it can better absorb nutrients and minerals from food, which can help to support weight loss.

Additionally, staying well-hydrated can help to keep blood sugar levels stable and reduce the risk of complications related to obesity or diabetes.

 

The few food choices on the hcg diet may be a bit bland, so many people may turn to over-seasoning their food to make it more satisfying. If you drink the required liters per day, you can mitigate most of the water retention caused by too much salt intake.

If not enough liquids are consumed you’re stressing your liver as it may lack the fuel to flush out toxins released from cells. If there isn’t enough water available to help cleanse the liver, these toxins can build up and cause damage.

8. Drink water to feel full

Drinking water can help to increase gastric motility and delay stomach emptying, leading to feeling fuller longer.

Without adequate amounts of water, we will be often puzzled by the signals our body is sending us and may feel hungry while we are actually thirsty.

Drinking early and hydrate frequently will help to keep snacking in check.

 

 

To maintain optimal health and to be able to maximize the diet, our body needs the proper amount of water. Consider keeping a fresh and clean bottle of water at your work desk, bag or inside your car every day!

In conclusion, following these 8 points will help you stay on track with your hcg dieting plan while also ensuring you’re taking in the right amount of water.