OPTIFAST®

The OPTIFAST Weight Loss Programme is based on a very low calorie diet (VLCD), which provides approximately 800 kcal of energy per day for the first 8 weeks.

The Programme has shown to significantly reduce body weight by 1-2.5 kg per week

and consists of three scientifically formulated shakes or bars taken daily for 8 weeks as a meal replacement, with low-carb vegetables and salad as desired. After the initial 8-week period, a 4-week period of gradual food reintroduction follows. This programme is, however, more than just shakes, it is a structured nutritional and behavioral change programme developed by leading experts and supported by medical professionals.

The Programme consists of 3 Phases to assist you in your weight loss journey:

Intensive Phase

On joining the OPTIFAST Programme, you may require a visit with a medical practitioner based on your risk-assessment - laboratory tests may also be required. If you are on chronic medication, this may need adjustment, as OPTIFAST® has shown to reduce the dose requirements of some medications. You will then also be referred to a CDE-OPTIFAST®-trained dietitian for a baseline consultation. After the initial assessment, the dietitian will explain the dietary aspects of the Programme, and you will receive sufficient OPTIFAST® Shakes. Follow-up consultations for support and education will occur with the dietitian at 2 weeks, 4 weeks and 8 weeks.

Food Reintroduction Phase

At the 8-week dietitian consultation, you will be taught how to reintroduce food into your diet. This phase consists of 2 shakes with 1 calorie controlled meal daily for 2 weeks or more and another 2 weeks of 1 shake with 2 calorie-controlled meals daily. This process has shown to assist in weight maintenance.

Weight Maintenance

At the 8 Week dietitian consultation, the dietitian will also provide you with weight maintenance strategies. This can be in the form of either 1 shake a day long term or using the shake intermittently. At 6 months, you will see your dietitian for support and education - your weight maintenance will also be assessed at this visit. At this time, you may see your doctor as part of your regular medical check-up, if your medication needs to be adjusted, e.g. in diabetes and hypertension.