Optifast is a very low-calorie-diet and behavior modification program. … You will eat a total of 800 to 1,000 calories a day. The initial phase typically lasts 12 weeks, during which rapid weight loss is expected. Optifast meals are designed to provide fewer calories than regular meals.

Is optifast a good way to lose weight?

Very low calorie diets, such as the Intensive Level of the OPTIFAST VLCD Program, have been shown to be very effective in helping people lose weight. During ketosis, when replacing all 3 meals each day over a period of up to 3 months, weekly weight losses can average about 1-2.5kg per week1,2.

What does optifast do to your body?

It is a total diet replacement providing less than 800 calories per day. This level is designed to achieve a large initial weight loss whilst helping to preserve lean body mass. You can stay on this level for anywhere up to 12 weeks, however, this period is variable and depends on your weight loss goals.

What is Optifast and how does it work?

The Optifast Meal Plan consists of having 3 serves of Optifast each day in place of your normal meals. It provides you with the minimum amount of energy (carbohydrate, protein and essential fats) that your body needs to get through the day, as well as the Recommended Daily Intakes (RDIs) of all vitamins and minerals.

How much weight can you lose on Optifast?

During the Intensive Level of the OPTIFAST Program, weight loss averages 1.0 to 2.5kg/week with an average total loss of 20kg after 12 to 16 weeks.

Can I eat fruit on Optifast?

Fruit is not recommended during the Intensive Level of the OPTIFAST VLCD Program. Fruit is naturally high in sugar and in order for the body to start burning fat via ketosis it is best to avoid fruit as this can deter the ketosis process and compromise weight loss.

Are you hungry on Optifast?

Because Optifast is a very low-calorie diet, you may have some concerns about hunger. It is normal to experience hunger the first few days of any reduced-calorie diet. The good news is that hunger sensations typically fade within a few days to two weeks after starting the program, according to Austin Regional Clinic.

How much does optifast cost per week?

The Optifast program costs about $92 a week for the first 12 weeks. (Prices may change slightly). This amount will gradually become less as you reintroduce food and purchase less shakes. The total cost for the Optifast program is around $2200.00 over 6 months.

How can I lose tummy fat fast?

  1. Eat plenty of soluble fiber. …
  2. Avoid foods that contain trans fats. …
  3. Don’t drink too much alcohol. …
  4. Eat a high protein diet. …
  5. Reduce your stress levels. …
  6. Don’t eat a lot of sugary foods. …
  7. Do aerobic exercise (cardio) …
  8. Cut back on carbs — especially refined carbs.

Can you do optifast on your own?

With the OPTIFAST VLCD Program, there are three levels to choose from, depending on whether you want to replace 3, 2 or even 1 meals with OPTIFAST VLCD Products. This means you can tailor the program to your own personal weight loss objectives and lifestyle.

Article first time published on

Do doctors recommend Optifast?

The OPTIFAST VLCD is a weight loss program designed to manage obesity and must only be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional. So, make sure to first ask your doctor if the program is suitable for you. Keep in mind that it’s not recommended for everyone. Some of these groups are listed below.

How much weight can I lose on Optifast in 4 weeks?

Research using Very low calorie diets (also known as VLEDs or Very Low Energy Diets) have shown on average, weekly weight losses of approximately 1.0-2.5kg per week4, providing greater initial weight loss than other forms of calorie restriction.

Why is optifast not recommended for over 65?

The OPTIFAST VLCD Program Intensive level is not recommended for use in persons over the age of 65 years, as metabolic and physiologic adaptations to intensive diets are decreased.

What's the best optifast Flavour?

I have tried the caramel, banana and strawberry shakes so far. I love the Caramel the best. The other two I like with quite cold water. I also like the cappuccino bars and the choc berry bars as well.

How long does it take for optifast to work?

The program is designed for individuals with a body mass index over 30, which falls into the obese category. Some clinics allow those with a BMI of at least 27 to enroll. Weight-loss results vary, but the typical person following this program loses over 50 pounds in 18 to 24 weeks, according to the Optifast website.

Can you eat anything while on Optifast?

You cannot eat any other solid foods while you are taking Optifast.

What should I expect the first week of Optifast?

These first few days on the OPTIFAST Program Intensive Level are commonly known as the 3 day challenge. As the body transitions into ketosis, you may experience some transient side effects such as fatigue, hunger, lack of concentration, nausea and headaches.

Can you eat eggs on Optifast?

We recommend at least 60 grams of protein per day. You should eat protein foods first at each meal. These include meat, fish, chicken, eggs and reduced fat dairy products. You can also use meal replacements with protein such as: Optifast, Tony Ferguson, Dr.

Can you have coffee while on OPTIFAST?

Yes, including tea and coffee in the OPTIFAST VLCD Program is fine. Try and keep your intake to no more than 3-4 cups per day and have them with no milk or about 30ml of skim/low fat milk, and no sugar.

Can you drink alcohol on OPTIFAST?

It is advised to eliminate alcohol completely whilst on the OPTIFAST Program. Alcohol is full of nutritionally empty kilojoules and puts extra stress on your kidneys and liver.

Can you use milk with OPTIFAST?

If you like to add milk or sugar to your tea and coffee, when you begin an OPTIFAST diet plan, you should start to use a calorie-free sweetener instead of sugar and use skimmed milk rather than semi-skimmed or whole milk. This will help to reduce the extra calories you’re consuming just in your drinks.

Are bananas bad if you are trying to lose weight?

Although there are no studies that directly examine the effects of bananas on weight, bananas have several properties that should make them a weight-loss-friendly food. If you’re trying to lose weight, there is absolutely nothing wrong with eating bananas as a part of a balanced diet rich in whole foods.

Does drinking water help you lose weight?

Water can be really helpful for weight loss. It is 100% calorie-free, helps you burn more calories and may even suppress your appetite if consumed before meals. The benefits are even greater when you replace sugary beverages with water. It is a very easy way to cut back on sugar and calories.

What is the 3 day diet plan?

The 3-Day Diet details three days of low-calorie diet menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. “You’re supposed to be eating specific foods and the portions are controlled,” says Williams. Besides being severely low in calories, the diet is also low in carbohydrates and other nutrients.

Can I lose belly fat in 7 days?

While you can’t lose belly fat instantly, you can reduce it with a calorie deficit and exercise. Avoid refined sugars and carbs, processed foods, and sugary drinks including alcohol. You can expect a healthy amount of weight loss between 1-2 pounds a week through diet and exercise.

How can I lose my belly fat in 15 days without exercise?

  1. Drink coffee. Coffee = weight loss. …
  2. Moderate legumes and cruciferous vegetables. …
  3. Try a juice cleanse. …
  4. Get enough sleep. …
  5. Hit maximum chill. …
  6. Take a bath. …
  7. Dine on dark chocolate. …
  8. Work on your posture.

What can I drink to lose belly fat?

  • 01/6​Weight loss: 5 simple morning drinks to melt belly fat. Do you not fit in your favourite pair of jeans anymore? …
  • 02/6​Jeera water. Jeera is a must -use spice in all Indian curries. …
  • 03/6​Saunf water. …
  • 04/6​Ajwain water. …
  • 05/6​Lemon water. …
  • 06/6​Green tea.

Does optifast give you gas?

The bloating /increased flatulence is usually transient and resolves quickly so keep progressing with the program. Alternatively, if you are lactose or fructose intolerant you may be experiencing some gastrointestinal symptoms as all the OPTIFAST VLCD products contain lactose and the bars also contain fructose.

What is comparable to optifast?

Medifast and Ideal Protein are similar to Optifast and promote weight loss through optimal protein, low-calorie meal plans. Each has differences that may make one better for your particular needs.

Is Medifast and Optifast the same?

Medifast Overview Just like Optifast, Medifast is another leading band of meal replacements. But what sets it apart is that Medifast does not require medical supervision while on the program and also serves a more targeted population that do not specifically struggle with obesity unlike Optifast does.

Can I eat meat on Optifast?

Choose trim cuts of meat and cut off the fat before cooking. Use lemon juice, reduced salt stock and herbs to flavour and keep the meat moist. Plan your weekly menu to ensure balance and variety, and to help you avoid making detrimental last minute decisions (especially if you are hungry!).