What Not to Drink on the HCG (Health Conscious Guru) Diet

With all the drinks labeled “sugar-free” you see at the grocery store, it can be a little puzzling to find out that virtually none of them are allowed on the low-calorie phase of the diet.

Sodas and other “sugar-free” beverages may not contain what we think of as actual sugar (table sugar, A. K. A. sucrose), but they do contain other forms of sugar or sweeteners like sucralose or aspartame that can cause stalls or gains. Listed in the nutrition facts on any product, the number next to “Sugar” only measures sucrose. So, any other forms of sugar or artificial sweeteners don’t count in the tests that define sugar content in a product. This means diet soda and all other “sugar-free” drinks are not allowed in Phase 2 of the HCG Diet because they will negatively affect your weight loss.

“So, what about Zevia?” you may ask. Zevia is a zero-calorie soda that has 0 calories, 0 sugar and NO ARTIFICIAL sweeteners. Stevia and erythritol are used to sweeten Zevia. While these are natural sweeteners, erythritol is a sugar alcohol which has carbs. Many of the weight loss plans designed for quick weight loss are low-carb diets and, therefore, don’t permit the use of sugar alcohols. Additionally, erythritol, even when used in small amounts, has common side effects like diarrhea, stomachache and headache.

A good idea if you are really craving soda is to use stevia in carbonated/sparkling water. Stevia comes in a variety of flavors like berry, root beer, lemon drop, orange, grape, vanilla, and many more. When they’re mixed with plain sparkling water (not tonic, seltzer, or soda water because those can contain sodium, carbohydrates, and even sugars) you get a great, diet-safe treat.

Don’t forget, there is always coffee and tea, but you probably want to steer clear of flavored coffees and teas or at least you’ll want to check the ingredients list for fruits, vegetables and oils. Fruity teas and coffees are bound to have some sort of dehydrated fruit (peaches, raspberries, etc.) vegetables, or oil (peppermint oil, lemon peel, etc.) which can have a negative effect on your weight loss. Make sure you are choosing “plain Jane” Lipton tea bags and black coffee with an approved stevia flavoring. 

Keep reminding yourself that you can do anything for about a month!