I didn't read the book. I skimmed through it at a book store and I was at his seminar in Chicago. His seminar was very good. I think he mentioned you can buy the oral version of HCG from a doctor. I think the price is around $50.00. HCG by itself does not make someone lose weight. Kevin said there is an FDA tag with every bottle stating this fact. You have to use it with the protocol. Kevin himself did not want to follow the Simmeon's protocol years ago. Over the years we have seen his weight fluctuate. The impression I got at his seminar is that he will never put on excess weight again as long as his hypothalamus gland doesn't become reprogrammed. The question I have is do you really have to use HCG? HCG is apparently very effective with the protocol. You lose about one pound for every day you follow the protocol and no exercise is required. You can reprogram your hypothalamus gland with diet and exercise but I guess it wouldn't make you lose the weight nearly as fast.