Can HCG diet cause side effects like numbness in fingers?
Patient: I started the HCG diet about two months ago. I have had idiopathic peripheral neuropathy for 30 years. It has bothered my feet and ankles. Since starting the diet, I have developed numbness in my fingers. That could either be a natural progression of the PN. Could it also be a result of the HCG diet? Thank you. Doctor: Hello,  HCG diet is not approved for weight loss unless it was recommended by your doctor.  As it contains restrictions in foods, you might suffer a lack of nutrients, plus changes in pH of body fluids.   All these changes might affect the already damaged nerves, precipitating neuropathy pain flare-up.  So you should stop this diet, and if it was recommended by your doctor, report this to him/her.  Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.  Take care  Regards, Dr Albana Sejdini, General & Family Physician