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
100% great program! My husband in 15 weeks has lost 106 lbs and went from size 50 to size 38. I have lost 48lbs and went from size 20 to 14 although we both still have a ways to go. We find it easy fast and we have never felt better. Any one interested and tried everything else needs to give this a try.
Elise
I am going to give medifast a try because I have had knee surgery and more to follow. I need to lose at least 20 lbs. fairly quick and I cannot walk except with the aid of crutches which I’ll be using for atleast 2 to 3 months. I just started medifast today and the comments on this site have really helped. Keep them coming.
I was reading through the comments of those of you who are just starting Medifast. LynnAnn in particular, you’ve have made an excellent choice.
I had a major fall 5 years ago and the pain and pressure on my spine kept me from exercising. I had to lose the weight or be disabled. I tried EVERYTHING, including those recommended by my naturopathic doctor, with little to no success. Then, a physician friend of mine told me about Medifast.
I lost seven pounds the first week, 3 the 2nd and 4 pounds every week thereafter. I kept it off for 31/2 years and then went back on for 2 more weeks and lost another 11 pounds for a total weight loss of 42 pounds combined! It is now 5 years and I continue to do several of those shakes a day plus 3 or 4 meals and now I lift weights.
So, keep doing what you learned during the weight loss periods of eating 6 small meals a day and keep active. It’s a great program and I am living proof that it works for the long term if you keep eating small healthy meals and stay active.
Thanks to Medifast I am still able to work and now lift weights in my 60’s!!! And, am a size 6 which I haven’t been since I was a teenager.
Nancy