The HCG diet plan is a structured weight loss protocol that combines a low-calorie diet with human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) hormone supplements. Developed by Dr. Albert T.W. Simeons in the 1950s, the HCG diet was designed to promote fat loss while preserving muscle mass. If you’re considering this diet, understanding its phases and preparing your meals in advance can make the process much easier and more effective.

Phases of the HCG Diet Plan

The HCG diet has three key phases:

1. Loading Phase (Days 1-2): During this phase, you consume high-fat, high-calorie foods while taking HCG supplements. This step prepares your body for fat burning.
2. Weight Loss Phase (3-6 weeks): In this critical phase, you consume only 500 calories per day and continue taking HCG. Your meals are primarily lean proteins, select vegetables, and minimal carbohydrates.
3. Maintenance Phase (3 weeks): After finishing the low-calorie phase, you gradually reintroduce healthier foods without the HCG supplement, maintaining your achieved weight loss.

Tips for HCG Diet Success

• Meal Prep: Planning and prepping your meals in advance helps ensure you stay on track, especially since the HCG diet requires precise calorie control.
• Portion Control: Use a food scale to weigh your ingredients accurately.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can curb hunger and support fat loss.
• Track Progress: Maintaining a food journal can boost accountability and highlight potential pitfalls.

HCG Diet Meal Prep Recipe: Lemon Herb Chicken with Asparagus

This delicious and satisfying meal is HCG-friendly and perfect for prepping in bulk to make your week easier.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 4 servings)
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray or minimal olive oil spray (HCG diet requires low fat)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breast into even portions for easier cooking. Season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly spray it with cooking spray. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken as it cooks.
3. Prepare the Asparagus: While the chicken is cooking, steam or roast the asparagus. For roasting, place the asparagus on a baking sheet, lightly spray with cooking spray, and sprinkle with salt. Roast at 400°F for 10-12 minutes until tender yet crisp.
4. Portion and Store: Divide the chicken and asparagus into four meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: ~150
• Protein: ~30g
• Carbohydrates: ~5g
• Fat: ~1g

This Lemon Herb Chicken with Asparagus recipe is light yet flavorful, helping you stay on track with the HCG diet while satisfying your taste buds. Preparing meals like this in advance will help reduce the temptation of non-compliant foods and make your weight loss journey smoother.

With proper planning, the HCG diet can be a powerful tool for achieving your health and fitness goals. Happy meal prepping and good luck on your journey to better health!