Let’s Attack the FAQ’s!

Hello!

There are so many questions you probably have about the program and how it works.  I know I did; especially since going on this program will require some change on my part.  Here are some of my favorite questions with some clear honest answers.  I know you will find them useful.

Now…Let’s Attack Those FAQ’s!

Starting Take Shape for Life

How fast do you lose?

Women average 2 to 4 pounds a week, men slightly faster (up to five pounds a week or more). Medifast low calorie diets require medical monitoring to minimize the potential for health risks.

How do I get started on Take Shape for Life?

Take Shape for Life recommends that you consult with your physician before starting a Take Shape for Life program. Decide whether you want to do a 5 & 1 plan with a meal once a day or the complete program (no food). That helps you determine how much product you will need. If you are unsure about the flavors, you might consider ordering a sample pack. Start with at least a two-week supply so that you don’t run out of products.

Should I wait until the weekend or start during the week?

You can do either one, depending on what fits you best. The first three days using Medifast meals are critical to your success, so plan your start-up carefully. You might look for a time when you don’t anticipate any big events that involve food.

What are the Take Shape for Life program options?

The 5 & 1 plan (usually 800 – 1000 calories per day) is recommended for most individuals who have a moderate amount of weight to lose. Typically participants will maintain a weight loss of 2 to 5 pounds per week while on this program. For those who have a significant amount of weight to lose, Medifast offers a lower calorie complete program that should be used only under the strict supervision of a physician. Medifast low calorie diets require physician monitoring to minimize the potential for health risks. A regular or Certified Health Advisor is not a substitute for a physician or a qualified medical practitioner for monitoring patients using Medifast low calorie products.

How long can I stay on the 5 & 1 plan?

As long as you are doing well and making progress, you should be able to continue using Medifast meals for as long as it takes to reach your desired goal weight. Some programs recommend taking a break from a complete plan after 16 weeks; however, research has not shown this to be necessary. To lose a lot of weight, such as more than 100 pounds, you may need to be on the program for a long time.

Why did the scale go up?

The amount of weight you lose will fluctuate from week to week. Often things that cause you to retain fluids, such as PMS, not drinking enough water, illness, stress, too much exercise and even temperature extremes, will affect the scale. Don’t panic if the scale doesn’t move for several days or even goes up. If you stay solid on your program, the scale will eventually show results.

What can I do about a plateau?

Plateaus usually occur after weight changes of at least 40 to 50 pounds. At this point, your body seems to take stock, and for a brief period, attempts to hold on to the fat stores. It’s as though your body reshuffles its weight status while assessing whether it’s safe to continue losing. Once it feels settled, your system will kick back in and allow your weight to drop again. If you experience a weight-loss plateau, look for other indications of progress such as wearing a smaller size of clothing.

Will I gain all the weight back?

You will maintain your success by making long-term changes in your lifestyle such as healthy eating and consistent exercise. You may also need to work on how you cope with life so that you don’t reach for food when you are experiencing stress, depression or other emotional needs.

Can I go back on the program if I gain back some weight?

Absolutely. If you gain back more than 5 to 10 pounds, we recommend that you immediately return to the program for a brief period. This will help your body adjust to staying at a lower weight and prevent you from regaining what you worked so hard to lose.

Can I use Medifast products as part of a food plan?

Yes, we encourage continued use of Medifast Meals so you donÕt re-gain the weight you lost. In fact, most people use 2-3 Medifast Meals per day as part of their ongoing Maintenance Plan. You may also use a Medifast Meal as a protein source in your regular meal, adding other foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains or a salad to maintain a healthy nutritional balance.

Our Momentum by Medifast line of products was specifically designed to assist with weight maintenance as it boosts your metabolism to prevent weight re-gain.