Q My sister wants me to get hCG shots with her for weight loss. If it works, I guess it would be worth the money since I need to lose some weight. But I can’t afford spending money on something that’s not a sure thing. — R.S., Winterville

A I have gotten a bunch of questions about weight-loss supplements, weight-loss injections and other weight-loss aids sold at doctor’s offices and on the Web recently. These are all likely to be more expensive than just reducing the calories you eat and/or increasing your physical activity. The quick answer to your question is that there is no one strategy that works for everyone, no sure thing. If you were my sister, I would try to discourage you from this diet plan.

Ashley Strickland, a Brody School of Medicine student, volunteered to research the use of hCG for weight loss. Ashely doesn’t recommend it either and here is why.

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