What is Optifast?

This is a medically supervised weight loss program designed to assist medically-at-risk patients to improve their health by lowering weight related health risks. It is important to note that there are varied treatment protocols that use Optifast products and services which are supervised by highly qualified physicians or other healthcare professionals. Optifast has an extensive history whereby over a million patients have been treated using this program since 1974. There are over 80 peer reviewed publications describing Optifast research. rnOptifast is only for appropriate Individuals considered morbidly obese. Screening is done to ensure that individuals with at least 50 pounds to lose, or are experiencing obesity-related complications, are the only candidates to undergo this program. In this phase, with some specified lab tests, the physicians determine if the program poses any risks to the patient. This program is recommended for patients between the ages of 20 and 50. rnAfter screening determines that a patient is a good match for an Optifast diet, the active weight loss phase, which takes 4 to 6 weeks commences. The patient is put on a fluid-only diet using Optifast products, which are basically nutritional drinks in a variety of flavors that provide less than 800 calories per day. Five Optifast drinks are consumed daily to provide the recommended intake of nutrients like vitamins, proteins, and other substances needed for good health. rnThe patient meets with his physician on a weekly basis (once or more) to check on the progress and health. Repeated lab tests are done to monitor cholesterol and blood glucose levels and medication dosages and the amount of Optifast products consumed each day may be altered to fit the changing caloric needs as weight loss increases. The patients will meet, usually in a group, a trained psychologist or therapist to discuss any obstacles they are facing. In these meetings patients begin to learn new behaviors and eating patterns to help them maintain their weight after they start eating self-prepared foods.rnFinally, the transition phase which lasts 4 to 6 weeks can now begin and the patient replaces the Optifast drinks with solid foods. A nutritionist will teach patients how to choose meals high in vegetables, whole grains, fruits, and low in fats and carbohydrates and the patients will continue to meet with the physician regularly and to attend group classes.