What Is hCG Hormone?

Human chorionic gonadotropin: it’s not a term that rolls off the tongue easily, but it is a vital hormone crucial for the health of both an expectant mother and her fetus throughout pregnancy. More commonly called hCG, this protein is first produced about five days after conception when the fertilized egg has grown into a grouping of between 70 and 100 cells called a blastocyst that has implanted into the wall of the uterus. Although levels remain low for the next several days, by day 12 its presence in the blood and urine is high enough to register on most early detection home tests.

What Role Does hCG Play During Pregnancy?

The primary function of hCG is to maintain the corpus luteum, an important temporary grouping of cells that surrounds the blastocyst and produces progesterone during early pregnancy. HCG also maintains the lining of the uterus, which provides a safe harbor for embryonic development. The embryo is entirely dependent on the uterine lining until the placenta is fully formed, usually during the fourth month of pregnancy. HCG can also initiate the release of stored fat from a pregnant woman’s body. This is usually seen in cases of malnourishment when the nutrients pulled from the fat are needed to sustain the fetus.

HCG and Weight Loss

The ability of hCG to trigger the release of stored fat is one of the reasons why this hormone has become a popular component in many weight loss programs. It is believed hCG works by “resetting” the hypothalamus gland, which regulates everything from the body’s metabolic rate to the intensity of hunger cravings. When used in conjunction with a 500-calorie-a-day diet, hCG has been shown to reduce hunger and increase energy levels, making it easier to maintain a low-calorie regiment and increasing the likelihood of achieving and maintaining a healthy target weight.

If you’ve been struggling to lose weight and would like to learn more about the possible benefits of starting an hCG diet and therapy program, reach out to Pharmacy Rx Solutions today. We’ve helped thousands find their inner thin, and we can do the same for you!