Hello Everyone,

First of all, I would like to thank you all for your words of wisdom over the last three weeks that I've been on my hCG diet journey. I have not actively participated, but have read many of your discussions and they helped to keep me motivated and on track.

So I am on R1P2...day 3 of final day without hCG (so going to phase 3 tomorrow). I lost a total of 13 lbs following Dr. Simeon's protocol very strictly. I stalled the last 4 days at my statistically ideal weight 148.2-I'm 5'10" and this is the weight that my body has a previous set-point for in the past. So, while I wanted to go down to 140, I was at peace especially since I have been very hungry the last few days on the diet. I figured any other slimming needs to be done with toning at this point and no so much losing weight.

So for my "need help" question...as I mentioned, I am on day 3 of no hCG and this morning I got up and weighed myself and I'd gained over 2 lbs. overnight! I also simultaneously started my TOM which is right on schedule and I've had all the associated symptoms including swollen, tender breasts etc. I know that more than likely this sudden weight gain is due to my TOM, but even still, should I do a steak day today? I have not seen it mentioned during one of the 3 stabilizing no hCG days. Any suggestions? I am feeling discouraged as I have been at that plateau, hungry and now that I'm going off of the hCG I'm gaining weight:(.

i wouldn't do a steak day- you are not yet in P3, so you can't have that much food. the weight is obviously from your tom, especially since it came all at once and you're still on the vlcd. i'd start P3 tomorrow and eat carefully. if you gain more than an additional 2# within the next few days, i'd do a steak day. otherwise i'd wait until your TOM is gone and see what your weight is then.

Hi treebear and mgsondance,

Thank you so much! I really appreciate the advice. I am already starving right now so couldn't imagine waiting til tonight to eat the steak. Yes...that darn TOM can be a real pain-seriously!

Yes...I am so glad I didn't start out with my TOM...thought I'd timed it perfectly since I began just as I finished my last cycle. However, I didn't take into account the fact that at the end I'd be dealing with serious cravings and hunger. I swear I've become obsessed with looking at dessert cookbooks...lol. Fortunately I am using them for inspiration to figure out variations of making something seriously chocolately with stevia! I am SO looking forward to my first "real" meal tomorrow on P3-whoo!