What is the HCG Diet Phase 3?

The HCG diet phase 3 speeds up metabolism and reduces hunger. It is the third part of a four-phase diet program that teaches dieters how to keep weight off permanently. HCG, or human chorionic gonadotropin, is a hormone extracted from the urine of pregnant women. It is thought to increase the body's metabolic process. This hormone can be found in liquid form and it can be consumed orally or injected.

HCG hormones are used along with this diet program to increase weight loss. Each phase of the plan typically lasts one month. As each phase is completed, the dieter must move on to the next phase. During the HCG diet phases 1 and 2, some foods should be completely avoided. The HCG diet phase 3 allows a dieter to eat any type of food, but there are still some restrictions.

Eating at fast food restaurants is prohibited during the HCG diet phase 3 because most fast food contains transfat and hydrogenated oils. Breads, rice, and pastas should also be avoided because they contain starch. This diet also restricts artificial sweeteners and any pre-processed foods. Cold drinks should also be consumed on a limited basis.

There are specific suggestions that should be followed while on the HCG diet phase 3. Drinking at least 0.5 gallon (1.89 liters) of water a day is recommended, as is exercising for at least one hour a day. Eating six times a day and taking a multi-vitamin is also important. Breakfast should be the biggest meal of the day, while lunch and dinner meals should be reduced in size. Oils such as coconut and flax seed should be used on a daily basis.

Keeping a weight chart is recommended while going through the HCG diet phase 3 because during this time period, the weight stabilizes. If there is an increase in weight of more than 3 pounds (1.36 kg), actions must be taken immediately. All foods should be avoided and more water should be consumed. The following day, foods high in protein can again be ingested, but should be kept to a minimum until the weight returns to normal.