What Not to Drink on the HCG Diet
With all the drinks labeled “sugar-free” you see at the grocery store, it can be a little puzzling when you find out that virtually none of them are allowed on the VLCD of the HCG Diet.
Sodas and other “sugar-free” beverages may not contain what we think of as actual sugar (table sugar, A. K. A. sucrose), but they do contain other forms of sugar or sweeteners like sucralose or aspartame that can cause stalls or gains. Listed in the nutrition facts on any product, the number next to “Sugar” only measures sucrose. So, any other forms of sugar or artificial sweeteners don’t count in the tests that define sugar content in a product. This means diet soda and all other “sugar-free” drinks are not allowed in Phase 2 because they will negatively affect your weight loss.
A good idea if you are really craving soda is to use stevia in carbonated/sparkling water. Stevia comes in a variety of flavors like root beer, orange, vanilla, and many more. So, when they’re mixed with plain sparkling water (not tonic, seltzer, or soda water because those can contain sodium, carbohydrates, and even sugars) you get a great, HCG Diet-safe treat.
Plus, there’s always coffee or tea. Remember… you are also allowed the juice of one lemon and one tablespoon of 2% milk per day. Adding those to coffee or tea can really help bump up the flavor!
