The HCG diet is frequently dismissed as a fad diet by some experts. However, proponents argue that it differs from typical fad diets in that it addresses the underlying causes of weight gain and provides a sustainable maintenance plan. While very low calorie diets can pose health risks, the HCG diet mitigates these risks through a pre-loading phase and use of HCG hormone to support metabolism and fat burning. Studies show that those who complete the HCG diet program typically maintain their weight loss long-term.