How to Use Optifast
Some people do not need medical intervention in order to lose weight, but others will require a closely supervised program to quickly drop the pounds. Those who are obese or overweight and experiencing severe health problems from their condition are the best candidates for Optifast. This is a complete diet regime you follow for several weeks. Each individual will have a slightly different regime to follow. The only way to get Optifast is through a medically supervised program, where your specifically tailored program will be created. Be sure to follow all of the instructions provided, and talk with your doctor if you have any questions.
Instructions
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Discuss your weight loss goals and needs at your initial meeting with the medical provider for Optifast. These are often weight loss clinics run by physicians.
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Replace all of your meals with Optifast shakes or soups during the Active phase. The number of shakes and the length of time you are in this phase will be based upon your personal needs. It could be up to 12 weeks. After about a week, you will become accustomed to the liquid diet.
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Mix one packet of powdered soup or shake with 8 to 12 ounces of water or other non-caloric liquid. You can also use the ready-to-drink shakes or the nutrition bars to replace your meals. There are several recipes you can make using your powdered mixes on the Optifast site. (See Resources.)
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Consult with the Optifast clinic's nutritionist for meals you can prepare yourself to slowly incorporate into your diet during the four to six week transition phase. You might only replace one or two shakes with real food per day. By the end of the transition, you should be able to move to a weight maintenance plan.
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Attend consultation sessions with your Optifast provider on a regular basis. You should also contact Optifast support groups to get emotional support from others who have gone through the program. These measures will help you to stay with the Optifast program.
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Tips & Warnings
Always follow the instructions given to you for your personal Optifast program. Each person will have different needs and they will have varying directions to their own Optifast weight loss program.Inform your primary care doctor that you are following the Optifast program. He might also have additional resources for support and information to give you.
