Constipation, or difficulty passing stools, is actually one of the biggest concerns dieters has with the HCG diet. Though it may sound uncomfortable and can cause worry, constipation on the HCG diet is perfectly normal. So, let’s get to the point so you don’t have to be grossed out too much by this post.
In many cases, weight gain while on hcg injections is blamed on constipation. However, it’s not correct at all. Unless, of course, you are one of those who haven’t had a bowel movement in a very long time. But if you are fully committed and had been following the plan correctly, the number of your calorie intake each day are very small, therefore, it makes sense that your body will produce also little waste. According to Dr. Simeons, having bowel movements once every three to four days is perfectly normal and deemed satisfactory, as long as plenty of fluids are consumed. In simple words, not much in, not much out.
How do I deal with constipation while on the HCG Diet?
Everyone is different. Our bodies react differently and do not function and produce the same result as other people. Even though every individual is different, most dieters on the HCG diet will find their bowel movements weren’t the same before starting the diet.
Everything you eat while on the HCG diet is extremely different. So, it’s quite common not to have a bowel movement every day. Then again, this is natural and not something to worry about. In fact, most successful HCG dieters deal with this issue very well and find that taking action is not necessary. Once your body is ready to expel the waste, it will. Once you complete the protocol, everything will return to normal.
What can I take for constipation while on the HCG Diet?
Using laxatives while on the HCG diet are discouraged. Most dieters on the HCG diet have no need for a stool softener or bowel stimulants. However, if you can’t help but take them, you may take magnesium or probiotics to help deal with your constipation.
Magnesium
You can treat occasional constipation with an over-the-counter supplement such as magnesium. It is a stool softener that acts as a natural laxative by relaxing your bowel and drawing water into the intestine. The water helps soften and bulk up your stool and allows it to move smoothly. After taking this supplement, expect the laxative effect to begin in one to four hours. It’s relatively gentle and it shouldn’t cause emergency bathroom trips unless you take too much of it.
Probiotics
Probiotics, the good bacteria found in yogurt and other fermented food products, are long regarded as having the ability to ease digestive issues, including constipation. Probiotics play a key role in helping to relieve constipation.
According to research, probiotics slowed digestion by 12.4 hours and increases bowel movement by 1.3 hours. Probiotics can help soften stools, enabling easier passage. Probiotics that contain the genus Bifidobacterium were most effective.