Vegan Hcg Diet: What To Eat And Avoid

The HCG diet is a weight-loss plan that can be adapted for vegans and vegetarians. The diet is based on a very low-calorie intake of 500 per day, with specific requirements for protein, vegetables, fruit, and carbs. For example, vegans can substitute meat with tofu or a lean vegan burger, and there are several protein powders that are suitable. The diet also includes a long list of approved vegetables, fruits, and seasonings, and it is recommended to drink a lot of water. There are also some restrictions on cosmetics and massages. While the diet is restrictive, there are many resources available to support vegans and vegetarians in following the plan.

Approved vegan proteins

Vegans undertaking the HCG diet can choose from a variety of protein sources to meet their daily requirement of 70 grams of protein. Here is a list of approved vegan proteins to include in your HCG diet:

Tofu

Tofu is a popular vegan protein option and can be included in the HCG diet. When selecting tofu for the diet, ensure it has between 75-140 calories, 15-21 grams of protein, less than 5 grams of fat, and less than 5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Vegan Sausage and Burger Patties

Vegan sausage patties and burgers are allowed on the HCG diet. However, it is important to choose options that are low in fat and carbohydrates. For example, the Beyond Meat "beefy crumble" is gluten-free, soy-free, and has a favourable nutritional profile for the HCG diet.

Protein Powder

Vegan protein powders can be used to meet your protein requirements. Look for options with 5 grams of carbohydrates or less per serving and sweetened only with Stevia or Xylitol. Some recommended brands include SunWarrior (Raw Vegan), Warrior Blend, Vegan Whey Powder, and Garden of Life Raw Protein.

Beans

Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein and are included in the HCG diet. Kidney beans, black beans, soy beans, and Adzuki beans are some of the best options, providing around 15-29 grams of protein per cup.

Quinoa

Quinoa is a complete protein source, containing all the essential amino acids. It is a good alternative to meat-based proteins and can be included in the HCG diet. A typical serving size is 1/4 cup of uncooked quinoa, which provides approximately 206 calories, 3 grams of fat, 7 grams of protein, and 38 grams of carbohydrates.

Other Options

In addition to the above, vegans on the HCG diet can also include lentils, flax seeds, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, and certain soy products like miso. It is important to monitor the nutritional content of these foods to ensure they fit within the guidelines of the diet.

HCG-friendly vegetables

The HCG diet is a short-term eating plan that takes between three and six weeks to complete. It involves a drastic reduction in calorie intake and the introduction of the HCG hormone, which drives the body to burn fat.

HCG dieters are allowed one serving of vegetables per meal, raw or cooked. Vegetables can be steamed, baked, or sautéed in a non-stick pan, but they must not be cooked with butter, oil, or another form of fat.

The following vegetables are HCG-friendly:

• Kale
• Spinach
• Lettuce
• Chard
• Chicory
• Cucumbers
• Cabbage
• Tomatoes
• Asparagus
• Onions
• Celery
• Broccoli
• Radishes
• Beet greens
• Brussels sprouts
• Green beans
• Mushrooms
• Peppers
• Zucchini
• Cauliflower
• Dill pickles
• Bean sprouts
• Beets
• Squash
• Eggplant
• Bok choy
• Pumpkin
• Fennel

It is important to note that dieters are advised not to mix vegetables. For example, if having tomatoes with lunch, one cannot have cucumbers too. However, some sources suggest that it is acceptable to mix vegetables in small amounts, being mindful of portion sizes to avoid overeating.

HCG-friendly fruits

The HCG diet is very strict, combining injections of the HCG hormone with a harsh calorie limitation of 500 per day.

During the different phases of the HCG diet, there are specific fruits that you can and cannot eat. HCG-friendly fruits include apples, oranges, grapefruit, and strawberries. Other fruits like watermelon, peaches, and pears are not allowed.

The calories that you can get from apples vary from 55 to 110, depending on the size. A standard orange is around 65-70 calories, while one grapefruit has 70-90 calories. A handful of strawberries will give you 50 calories.

You can have two servings of fruit each day, beginning in Phase 2 of the HCG diet. No fruit is included in Phase 1. You can separate your fruit portions into smaller servings throughout the day. For example, you can eat half a grapefruit for breakfast and half a cup of strawberries as a mid-morning snack. Eat the other half of the grapefruit for lunch and the remaining strawberries for dinner.

In Phase 3, you can expand your food choices except for sugar and starch. So, avoid fruits high in sugar and carbs like bananas, mangoes, and dried fruits. These fruits are off-protocol. Also, avoid canned fruits, as they are high in sugar.

The HCG diet-friendly fruits listed above are carefully selected for their health properties. Each fruit contains phytonutrients needed by your body, whether you are on the HCG diet or not. Here are some of the health benefits of each:

• Apples are one of the most effective fruits against cancer.
• Oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C, have a low glycemic index, and are rich in antioxidants.
• Grapefruit is rich in lycopene, which fights cancer, and helps lower cholesterol levels.
• Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, which is necessary for the proper function of the immune system.

It is important to note that eliminating fruits from the HCG diet is not recommended. The fiber and energy in the fruits help keep your body working properly and your energy levels up.

Approved seasonings and additives

Seasonings and additives are an important part of making food taste good and enhancing flavours, especially when on a restricted diet. Here is a list of approved seasonings and additives for the HCG diet for vegans:

• Lemon juice
• Garlic
• Thyme
• Parsley
• Plum vinegar
• Apple cider vinegar
• Sea salt
• Basil
• Pepper
• Balsamic vinegar
• Garlic herb salt
• Braggs Liquid Aminos
• Soy sauce
• Stevia
• Tabasco
• Picante
• Horseradish
• Pickles
• Olives
• Mustard powder
• Paprika
• Kosher salt
• Dehydrated garlic
• Marjoram
• Vinegar
• Sweet basil

It is important to note that pre-mixed spices and seasonings should be avoided as they often contain sugar. You should also avoid all oils, butters, and dressings.

The importance of consulting a medical professional

The HCG diet can be followed by vegans and vegetarians with a few substitutions. However, it is important to consult a medical professional before starting any new diet or fitness program. This is because your doctor knows your medical history and can guide you on the best steps to take regarding your health goals. They can also advise on any potential conflicts between your diet and health conditions or prescriptions.

For example, people with kidney disease should avoid diets that recommend high protein intake, and those with high blood pressure or heart failure should steer clear of diets high in salt. A medical professional can also advise on any tests that may be required before starting a new fitness program.

Additionally, supplements can have a direct effect on hormone capacity for fat metabolism, so it is important to discuss any supplements with a doctor. This is especially important for vegans and vegetarians, as they may be taking supplements to ensure they are getting all the required nutrients.

A doctor can also help you to modify a diet or fitness program to suit your individual needs and ensure it is safe and effective in the long run. They are a valuable partner in helping you to achieve your health and fitness goals.

Frequently asked questions