The Basics
The Medifast brand has been around for a number of decades, and at one time was only available via physicians. Nowadays the products can be ordered on-line and through a number of distributors.
Medifast offer a stable of meal replacement products - all generally formulated to be low-calorie and low-fat, and containing the optimum levels of vitamins. The formula will generally take users into a mild state of ketosis.
The most popular plan is called 5 and 1. This plan (800-1000 calories daily) comprises 5 meal replacements and one “real” meal containing a lean protein and vegetables and salad. Medifast claim a weight loss of 2-5 pounds per week on this plan.
Proof?
What many people don’t realize is that very few commercial weight loss programs have ever undergone any clinical studies. Medifast heavily promote the fact that a Johns Hopkins university study has shown that Medifast results in significant weight loss (67 pound average loss in males and 57 pound average loss in females). It’s worth pointing out that this study looked at patients who attended Medifast clinics.
There is also an additional study that compared the Medifast program with diabetes medication. The study found Medifast more effective at controlling type 2 diabetes than an ADA-recommended program (see PR).
Both studies were led by Associate Professor Lawrence Cheskin of Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and were funded by Medifast .
Successes
Due to the popularity of the program, Medifast have a number of “success stories” - one of which is Nnedi Uzowihe-Igwe of Maryland, USA (currently featured on the Medifast site). She also appeared in People magazine in January 2006 describing a massive transformation that resulted in a 160lb weight loss between June 2004 and April 2005. Nnedi subsequently became pregnant and gave birth to her second daughter)
I was able to find out how Nnedi was going now, and she appears to have maintained her massive initial weight loss (and is aiming to lose the weight she put on with the second baby by the end of this year).
Drastic
Protein fasts and low-calorie meal replacements are a drastic solution, and in my opinion appropriate for drastic situations. Given the choice between gastric bypass surgery or Medifast , then Medifast must surely be a better answer.
The biggest test of a program such as Medifast is the long-term consequences - and in particular weaning off a program based around shakes and soups. The transition phase should be four to six weeks, and often starts off by introducing some oatmeal at breakfast, and some fruit for snacks. Also exercise must become a part of life (5 days a week). Exercise must be fairly low-key during the restrictive part of Medifast - but once transitioning - it becomes increasingly important.
Due to the level of energy intake and exercise levels - it is likely that some muscle loss will occur during the weight loss phase. Once again, the best course of action would be to gradually include strength training during the transition phase - and begin to build up muscle tone.
Costs
The Medifast 5 and 1 plan cost $275 for 4 weeks. However - that’s the cost of the “5″ - you will still need to buy your daily “lean and green” meal (lean protein plus salad/vegetables).
Men & Women
Different formulations are used for men and women. Some shakes are called Medifast 55 or Medifast 70. The latter has a higher soy protein content and is more suitable for men (or women who prefer higher protein).
Behaviour Change Required
Behavioural changes are critical to the long-term success of Medifast . Unless these lifestyle changes are applied, then the weight could easily swing back on like a yo-yo. It’s worth taking a look at the post 10 Questions To Ask Before Changing Your Diet.
Conclusion
I don’t believe Medifast is for the person who wants to lose 20 pounds. This is a serious program for serious situations, and it may be advisable to follow the program while receiving regular support from a clinic, and even under medical advisement.
However ample proof exists that the program does work and can lead to significant weight loss provided the transition phase is followed correctly.
Hi, I'm a dietitian with experience in hundreds of weight loss programs and fad diets. When forming my list of the
I’ve been on the Medifast Diet for over 5 weeks and I have lost 19.5 pounds. It’s far easier than any diet I’ve ever tried, and I’m learning far more about healthy eating than I thought possible. According to the BMI index, I’m considered obese and my health issues (feet/back) forced me to take action to reduce the strain on my body. I chose Medifast because of it’s popularity and because I had never tried a meal replacement diet before. Although I’m still in the weight loss stage, I have no doubts whatsoever that I will be successful in transitioning to their maintenance plan.
Great review…I have heard mixed opinions about Medifast, but most of them were positive. People I have talked to said that they have reached their target weight. I do not know if they were able to maintain it for an extended period, I hope so. Some people apparently like the simplicity of ready to eat/drink meals.
hi all…since reading all the commentary about Medifast, I called my GP and got his approval…then…I’ve ordered a 2 week program (comes with a free week…so really 3) and extra products to go for the 4 week program.
It sounds like exactly what I need…SIMPLE! No thought process. There’s something to eat every 2 hours then have my normal meal at night. (currently all I eat for dinner is a small piece of whatever meat my hubby is having as a condiment and a couple cups of some kind of veggie and fruit.
Thanks for this topic…I’m really juiced to do this. love and peace…lynnann
ps…I did lose many pounds on Atkins…so I know that lo-carb is good for me, but it was still to high in calories and it was not strict enough for me.
I’ve gained several of the lbs back since then. I know that when I get to my goal weight..I will be able to maintain it easily…it’s the jump starting my metabolism that seems to be the problem.