Off-protocol choices while on VLCD are NEVER worth it! Eating something off protocol isn’t like cheating on a diet – it’s quite literally stopping the treatment. Dr. Simeons goes so far as to say that going off protocol, even by one bite, can nullify (cancel out) the effects of the entire protocol. Your goal is to lose the weight, but also to reset the hypothalamus to enable you to stabilize at your new weight.

If you go off protocol on the VLCD, you will likely notice: an increase on the scale within the next few days, a stall lasting up to 2 weeks, increased cravings for carbohydrates/sweets, emotional distress and guilt, and trouble stabilizing in maintenance. Dr. Simeons is very clear that one MUST have 21 VLCD treatment days to ensure that the hypothalamus will reset during maintenance. Don’t cheat yourself out of this wonderful gift! Call a friend or our support line if you are tempted to go off protocol! You deserve it! If needed, our Recovery Guide is in the ThinNow HCG Diet Guide.