New Beginnings Diet

The New Beginnings Diet was created by Dr. A.T.W. Simeons to combine dietary and medical methods of losing weight. The New Beginnings diet is currently practiced at clinics in Florida and California.

How it Works

• The New Beginnings diet has two main components: a very low-calorie diet and a series of hCG--or Human Choriogonadotropin--shots. HCG is a hormone that is naturally created by females during pregnancy, and increases the productivity of one's thyroid when ingested. The combination of hCG injections and low-calorie foods works to change an individual's eating habits and bodily makeup so that weight loss can become permanent.

Time Frame

• Two distinct time frames are offered for the New Beginnings diet--23 days or 40 days. While the programs are relatively similar, the 40-day program is meant for individuals who are looking to lose a large amount of weight.

Included Foods

• The New Beginnings diet includes a wide range of food and beverage choices. Proteins allowed under the New Beginnings diet include chicken breast, tilapia, shrimp, veal, lobster and beef. Vegetables that are allowed under the diet include all greens, radishes, onions, cucumber and tomatoes.

Warning

• The affect of hCG injections on non-pregnant individuals is still questionable and may cause malignancies. Mayo Clinic nutritionist Jennifer K. Nelson notes that the safety of hCG for weight loss is "uncertain" and that it is the calorie restriction in the diet, and not the hCG injections, that causes the weight loss. As always, consult your primary physician before beginning a new diet.