Welcome to Phase 3: The Maintenance Phase

After you’ve shed some serious pounds, it’s time to gradually discontinue the use of HCG drops and slowly increase your daily calorie intake. Even if you want to lose more weight with hCG, it’s best to not take hCG for more than 26 days at a time. You can start a new “cycle” of hCG after your body has had a few weeks “off”. That being said, here are some tips to help you successfully maintain your new weight.

Portion Control

Eating 5 small meals a day rather than 3 large ones can keep your metabolism working longer, helping you control your weight. Include metabolism-boosting spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and turmeric. Eating off a smaller plate also tricks your mind into thinking you are eating more than you actually are.

Eat When Hungry-Stop When Full

Pay close attention to your body’s signals to learn the difference between real hunger and stress or boredom eating. Try to determine whether you’re actually hungry (your stomach is growling) or if your hunger is a response to an emotional cue. Most times you’re thirsty, not hungry. Drinking a glass of water will not only eliminate boredom eating, it helps you burn calories by keeping your metabolism going. In the event that you are hungry, remember you don’t need to finish everything on your plate just because it’s there. Even if there are leftovers, stop eating when you feel satiated.

Eat Protein At Each Meal

Protein can help you curb your appetite because it reduces a hormone responsible for hunger, helping you feel full sooner and stay satiated longer. Include at least 20 grams of protein in every meal. Make sure your snacks also include protein to help give them staying power.

Sleep Is Your Friend

Studies have shown that not getting enough sleep can disrupt your body’s hunger signals. When you don’t get enough quality sleep, your body becomes less glucose sensitive. The hunger hormone ghrelin is increased, while the appetite control hormone leptin is decreased. There’s an increased risk of obesity in people who don’t get adequate levels of sleep.

Calories Matter

Figure out how many calories you need to maintain your new weight. Calculator.net is a helpful tool to see just how many calories you’ll want to consume to stay at your current weight. Striving for high value calories like lean proteins and vegetables are best. Stay away from the empty calories of processed foods like chips and candy.

Want to learn more? Check out the HCG Buy Direct Blog for guides, recipes, and more.