APPENDIX VIII: COMMERCIAL SELF-HELP PROGRAMS
Slim*Fast/Ultra Slim*Fast
• Approach/Method: An Ultra Slim*Fast shake is used as
a meal replacement for one or two meals per day. A sensible
well-balanced dinner and two or three fruit snacks are
recommended during the day. Total recommended caloric intake
averages 1200 to 1400 calories per day. The two shakes a day
on the Slim*Fast Plan provide 70% of the RDA of 22
vitamins and minerals, 80% of the RDA of calcium, together
with 10 grams of fiber, 20 grams of protein and only six
grams of fat.
• Clients: Overweight men and women.
• Staff: The Slim*Fast program was developed by
physicians, nutritionists, and dietitians. Individuals on
the Slim*Fast plan are able to manage their weight loss on
their own.
• Expected Weight Loss/Length of Program: The expected
weight loss is three to four pounds the first week and one
to two pounds thereafter. Once the target weight goal is
attained, weight maintenance is facilitated by replacing one
meal a day with an Ultra Slim*Fast shake. Some users manage
their weight by leaving the program once the target weight
is attained, weighing themselves daily, and returning to the
Slim*Fast weight-loss program periodically when a few pounds
of weight gain occurs. Moderate exercise, e.g. a 30-minute
walk per day, is recommended.
• Costs: Each ready-to-drink meal (Ultra Slim*Fast
shake) averages about $1.00.
• Healthy Lifestyle Components: Dietitians and other
health professionals have developed pamphlets containing
exercise plans and methods to promote permanent changes in
lifestyle, which can be obtained by writing to the Slim*Fast
Foods Company.
• Availability: Nationally available.
• Headquarters: 777 South Flagler Drive, West Tower,
Suite 1400, West Palm Beach, FL 33401. Phone: (561)
833-9920.
Information supplied by Slim*Fast Foods Co.
