Treating flu or colds while on the HCG diet is challenging because most medications can interfere with the HCG shots. Flu and colds are typical viral infections that spread from person to person. In general, flu is worse than the common cold, and symptoms are typically more intense and begin more abruptly. 

Effects of Cold and Flu on the HCG Diet

Having a cold or flu can have a significant impact on your ability to stick to the plan. When you are sick, your body needs more energy to fight off the infection, which can make it difficult to stick to a very low-calorie diet. Additionally, some of the foods that are allowed on the HCG diet may not be appealing when you are dealing with a sore throat, congestion, or other flu symptoms.

Another issue to keep in mind is that some medications used to treat cold and flu symptoms may contain ingredients that are not allowed in the protocol. For example, many cough and cold medications contain sugar, alcohol, or other ingredients that can impact your weight loss progress. It is essential to check the labels carefully before taking any medications while on the diet.

5 Tips for Managing Cold and Flu Symptoms on the HCG Diet

Despite the challenges of being sick on the HCG diet, there are some things you can do to manage your symptoms and stay on track with your weight loss goals. Here are some tips:

1. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of fluids is crucial when you are sick, especially if you are following a very low-calorie diet. Water, herbal tea, and sugar-free electrolyte drinks are all good options. Avoid sugary drinks, including fruit juices, soda, and sports drinks.

2. Stick to Allowed Foods

While you may not have much of an appetite when you are sick, it is important to stick to the allowed foods. This will ensure that you are getting the nutrients you need to support your immune system while also promoting weight loss. If you are having trouble eating solid foods, consider drinking homemade bone broth. Homemade bone broth is allowed on the diet and can be very nourishing.

3. Avoid Sugar and Processed Foods

Sugar and processed foods can suppress your immune system. This can make it harder for your body to fight off infections. Avoid all sugar, including natural sweeteners like honey and agave nectar. Stick to whole, unprocessed foods.

4. Use Natural Remedies

Many natural remedies can help ease cold and flu symptoms without compromising your weight loss progress. For example, ginger tea can help soothe a sore throat and reduce inflammation. Garlic can boost your immune system and fight off infections. Echinacea, elderberry, and zinc are other natural remedies that may be helpful.

5. Rest and Relax

Rest is essential when you are sick. So, try to get as much sleep as possible. Avoid strenuous exercise, as this can further deplete your energy reserves. Instead, focus on gentle activities like yoga, stretching, or walking. Meditation and deep breathing exercises can also help reduce stress and promote relaxation.

List of Products That Can Relieve Flu Symptoms 

1. Ginger. It helps ease symptoms of common colds and flu and more. The most beneficial way to take ginger is by making ginger tea. You can use this on any phase of the HCG diet.
2. Elderberry. This wild berry aids in the battle against the flu. During the HCG diet’s low-calorie phase, elderberries are not permitted, so make sure you choose safer alternatives. You may take a break if you are feeling unwell enough. 
3. Garlic. Garlic is a great at-home remedy because it can be used for many ailments. When chopped, chewed, or crushed garlic forms an anti-bacterial compound. 
4. Licorice. It contains anti-viral properties and can be used as an anti-inflammatory. It also helps soothe tissues and can ease a sore throat caused by common colds and flu. However, avoid this during the second phase of the HCG diet. 
5. Vitamin C. This is found at high levels in fruits and vegetables. Vitamin C help with the common cold. Some HCG diet-friendly foods high in vitamin C are strawberries, oranges, grapefruit, tomatoes, cabbage, and leafy greens.

Foods to Eat and Avoid While Having Flu

• Low-calorie broth 
• Chicken soup (avoid adding heavy cream soups)
• Garlic
• Yogurt (Not permissible on VLCD)
• Vitamin C–containing fruits and vegetables
• Leafy greens
• Broccoli
• Oatmeal (sugar-free)
• Spices (Refer to the food list for permissible spices)

Avoid the following:

• Alcohol
• Caffeinated beverages
• Processed foods

Dealing with a cold or flu while on the HCG diet can be challenging. However, it is possible to manage your symptoms and stay on track with your weight loss goals. By staying hydrated, sticking to allowed foods, avoiding sugar and processed foods, using natural remedies, and resting and relaxing, you can support your immune system while also promoting weight loss.