HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) is what triggers the hypothalamus region to mobilize stored fat into the bloodstream to be used as food. It is believed to reset your metabolism and to protect your body’s good fat and keep muscle tissue from breaking down. (which occurs in other low calorie diets without using HCG). Dieters who need to lose 15 lbs. (7 kg.) or less require a 26 day treatment. Dieters must continue the 500-calorie diet, free to eat anything they please except sugar and starches for the next three weeks. Dieters who need to lose 34 lbs. or more will require at least one extra cycle. However, they must NOT begin the next cycle sooner that 6 weeks.