Phase 3 of the HCG diet is often known as the maintenance segment of the diet. At this point, it is all about maintaining your weight off rather than losing more. This phase is designed to redefine your diet so you can focus on maintaining your weight for good. In most cases, you will still be maintaining calorie deficit but you won’t be injecting the HCG hormones anymore which can make it slightly difficult for some. After a few days, you can gradually raise your daily net carb intake while slowly adding carbs and sugar back into your diet. As much as possible you have to keep it within the 2-pound range.
Phase 3 of the HCG diet is also the phase where many dieters start to slip up. So, you need to be extra cautious during this phase. You must strictly adhere to the protocol so you won’t slip and gain back all the weight that you worked so hard during the very low-calorie phase. You will have to stick to your guns and focus on your long-term maintenance goal.
What is the purpose of Phase 3?
The maintenance phase of the HCG diet is absolutely critical to the overall success of the protocol. Its main purpose is to stabilize your weight and fully prepare you for a new healthy lifestyle. Phase 3 is the best time for you to identify perfect exercise patterns and healthy eating habits.
Your weight can be very volatile during this phase. When you lose weight faster, there’s a tendency for your weight to fluctuate wildly as you begin to eat real foods. Your weight can easily go up and down by 2 pounds particularly during the first week. That is why it is very important that you follow the protocol. Sometimes, some dieters find it easier for them to stabilize out quickly without having any problem but this is not always the case. As the maintenance phase progresses, your weight will get more and more stable as long as you follow the protocol.
Tips on getting started with phase 3
If you are one of those who are new to the HCG diet and scared when starting phase 3, don’t be. I mean no one wants to get this far just to gain the weight back. Below are some helpful tips on getting started with phase 3 of the HCG diet.
- Join an exercise or a fitness program
- Get some therapy
- Get support online
- Join community forums
- Read all information about phase 3
- Make a list of all the phase 3 foods
- Be ready physically and mentally
- Plan ahead, do it right while transitioning back to a regular healthy diet.
Habits to help you maintain your weight
The HCG Diet phase 3 allows you to increase your calorie consumption from 500 calories to 1200-15000 calories. During this time, you have to make slow adjustments as abrupt changes are likely to cause weight gain. Below are healthy habits to help you maintain your weight while on HCG Diet phase 3 and for good.
- Make a slow transition
Once the very low-calorie phase is over make a slow transition. Gradually increase your calorie intake. That includes carbs and sugar but remember to do it slowly. You don’t want to go back to your old eating habits, the reason why you have gained weight.
- Exercise
You are more capable of doing exercise now you’re on phase 3 of the HCG diet. Your body now becomes more adjusted to the calorie intake so you’re more accustomed to the protocol now. Exercise is recommended during this phase as it will allow your body to have a higher level of stamina. You’ll become more confident with yourself. Exercise will also help release some stress and is one of the best predictors of long-term weight loss success.
- Eat breakfast
Now you’re allowed to increase your calorie intake, why not have a decent healthy breakfast? Instead of the usual coffee, just like what you’re used to during phase 2, have a heart-healthy breakfast. Research shows that people who eat breakfast are more successful in keeping the pounds at bay.
- If you have gained weight, don’t panic
Nearly all HCG dieters gain some weight during phase 3 because of how challenging this phase can be but don’t panic. Your body will respond sensitively to the foods that you start adding to your diet. Keep track of your food intake and if you happen to gain weight, track the specific food that causes weight gain. Eliminate that food and do the steak day.
- Continue to challenge yourself with new goals
After enduring a very tough diet protocol, continue to stay on your toes by setting a new goal. It doesn’t necessarily have to be weight loss related, perhaps a healthier you physically, emotionally and socially this time.
- Stay connected with people who support you
The people who supported you will help you maintain your weight off for good. They are in the best position to give you reminders if you happen to lose track of your success or respect the magnitude of your accomplishments.
- Be a weight loss counselor
Continue to inspire others with your weight loss story especially to those who are new to the HCG Diet. Join online HCG diet communities, make a Vlog and share your story.
- Weigh yourself every day
Continue to weigh yourself every day when on Phase 3 and even if you’re off the HCG Diet already. Remember to stay within the 2-pound range when on phase 3 of the HCG Diet. Checking your weight regularly is a practice shared by dieters who successfully keep their weight off.
- Track everything that you eat
Don’t forget to do this every day and log them on your HCG Diet journal.
Though it can be a major pain, it can be beneficial if you happen to gain weight.
- Stick to the rules
Do not deviate from the protocol especially from the approved HCG Diet food list. Be vigilant with your daily calorie intake. Continue to use the HCG diet recipes. Do not cheat.
