Human chorionic gonadotropin or HCG is a hormone produced during pregnancy. With the rise of fertility issues and weight loss trends, this natural hormone has gained popularity and created new business opportunities. Let's take a deeper look at HCG's functions, medical uses, and emerging applications.

History and Functions of HCG
HCG is produced by the placenta soon after pregnancy begins and its level rises steadily during the first trimester. It has two main functions - first, it supports the normal development of the egg cell (ovum) and causes hormone changes in the ovary so that the mature ovarian follicle doesn't collapse and the corpus luteum continues to secrete progesterone. Progesterone prepares the uterus to receive a fertilized egg and sustain a pregnancy. Secondly, HCG sustains the yellow body (corpus luteum), which secretes progesterone, a hormone needed to prepare the uterine lining to receive and nourish a fertilized egg. Without HCG, the corpus luteum would disappear within a few days after ovulation resumes the cycle. This unique hormonal signal of pregnancy was an important discovery that led to the development of early pregnancy tests.

Medical uses of HCG
In medicine, HCG is used to induce or maintain ovulation and pregnancy. It is frequently administered during in-vitro fertilization treatments to help eggs fully mature and trigger ovulation. By replicating nature's signal of pregnancy, HCG sustains the corpus luteum and helps establish sufficient progesterone levels needed to support implantation and very early fetal development. It may also help with infertility issues related to anovulation and irregular menstrual cycles. In addition, HCG injections have been used to treat cryptorchidism (undescended testicles) in boys and hypogonadism. The hormone signals the pituitary gland to increase testosterone levels in males.

Emergence of HCG for Weight Loss

In recent years, HCG has gained mainstream popularity for its potential weight loss benefits when administered in very low doses. Proponents claim HCG may target abdominal and visceral fat for energy when combined with a very low calorie diet of 500 calories per day. While no conclusive evidence proves HCG alone causes weight loss, the drastic calorie restriction likely contributes to the pounds shed. However, health experts warn that rapid weight loss from extreme dieting can lead to nutrient deficiencies, stress hormone increases, and potential metabolic disruption. Further research is still needed to fully validate HCG's safety and efficacy for long-term weight management. Still, its popularity has led to a soaring $400 million HCG diet products industry. Injectables, oral drops, and homeopathic preparations containing minuscule or undetectable HCG levels dominate the market.

In summary, human chorionic gonadotropin is a hormone with diverse physiological roles. Beyond its natural functions in pregnancy, HCG is making waves in medicine through assisted reproduction techniques and controversial weight loss applications. With further research, this versatile hormone may unveil greater therapeutic benefits. New uses and delivery methods will likely open fresh opportunities as knowledge expands in this evolving area of scientific inquiry.