A weight-loss plateau on the HCG diet happens when your weight loss stops or when the result is the same as the latest weigh-in you have. Plateaus can happen during the HCG diet regardless of how much you spend your energy. A plateau is also caused by the foods you eat or the natural activities in your body. A weight-loss plateau is sometimes a sign that you are already reaching your weight loss goal. This may also be a sign that your body needs time to reset.
The Causes of Plateaus During the HCG Diet
- The calories are sneaking in. Plateau can happen when you eat calorie-loaded foods during the second phase of the HCG diet. Avoid losing control of your portion sizes even though you are eating healthy foods.
- Stress. When your cortisol levels increases due to stress, you are more likely to gain weight or hit a plateau. Manage stress with a healthy coping mechanism. Avoid eating foods when you are seeking emotional comfort due to stress.
- You are not eating enough every day. Too many calories can cause plateaus and weight gains similar to eating less. The HCG limits your calorie intake to 500 per day. Eating less than 500 calories can cause a plateau.
- PMS or Menstruation. It is a natural occurrence in the body that changes the hormones in the body and leads to a plateau. Nonetheless, it will be gone when your period is over. Maintain a healthy diet during your menstruation to avoid depositing additional calories.
Things You Can Do To Recover Plateau on the HCG Diet
- Try the apple day. This is the easiest plateau breaker allowed during the HCG diet. This involves eating 6 green apples for the whole day and lowers your fluid intake. This means that if you are drinking 2 liters a day you have to lower it to at least one and a half liters. You will be able to lose water weight through this. You also have to double-check your past activities and food intake to be able to determine the possible cause of the plateau.
- Steak day. This protocol is permissible when the plateau continues until the fourth day. The steak day is also an effective plateau breaker done by fasting for the entire day. You are only allowed to drink water and sugarless coffee or tea during the day. You can prepare a large piece of steak for your dinner. You can have it along with one apple or tomato. The steak day will reduce the water retention that causes stalls and gains.
NOTE: The apple day and steak day are not designed for you to do intentional cheating during the second phase of the HCG diet. Ensure to maintain proper calorie intake and daily HCG shots to maximize your weight loss.