Optifast
Approach/Method: Medically-supervised program of
fortified liquid meal replacements and/or fortified food
bars, eventually including more regular foods. Diet plans
range from 800-1200 calories per day based on individual
patients needs. There are weekly sessions on how to change
eating behavior, and one-on-one counseling is available.
Clients: Contraindications to very low-calorie diets
include: individuals with less than 30 percent or less than
50 pounds over desirable weight (corresponding to BMI of
approximately 30-32), those less than 18 years of age,
pregnant and lactating women,
and individuals with recent acute heart attack or unstable
angina, type I diabetes, and advanced liver or kidney
disease.
Staff: Dieters are seen regularly by medical doctor,
registered dietitians, nurses, and
psychologists at most locations; exercise physiologists are
used on consulting basis.
Group meeting leaders and one-on-one counselors are
psychologists and dietitians.
Expected Weight Loss/Length of Program: This program
limits weight loss to two percent of body weight weekly. The
Active Weight-Loss Plan lasts for about 13 weeks. The
transition phase lasts for about six weeks. Maintenance,
which begins at 20th week, is part of the program and
continues on an ongoing basis. There is no time limit on
maintenance.
Cost: Costs vary with the type of diet and length of
program. The weekly program fee during the weight-lost phase
ranges from $15 to $70 per week. The weekly fees may include
group meetings, laboratory fees and physician visits.
Depending on the calorie level and meal plan, the weekly
product cost during the weight-loss phase ranges from $10 to
$70 per week. During maintenance, the weekly program fee is
$10-$30 per week. Products are not required during the
maintenance phase, but are available if desired. Insurance
may cover a portion of the cost.
Healthy Lifestyle Components: Emphasis is on
behavior change, problem-solving skills, and choosing a
healthy diet in group and individual counseling sessions. An
exercise
physiologist is available to help design personal exercise
plan.
Comments: Close contact with physician and other
health professionals. Controlled calorie level promotes
quick weight loss, beneficial for people with certain health
problems. Clients make few decisions about what to eat.
Optifast products are used during weight loss, transition
and can be part of a healthy diet.
Availability: Numerous hospitals and clinics in the
United States and abroad.
Headquarters: Novartis Nutrition (formerly Sandoz
Nutrition), Minneapolis, MN.
1-800-662-2540.
Information supplied by Optifast.
