No. The nutrient balance of the foods you will use on this program, combined with the low-calorie level causes your fat stores to release free fatty acids that are converted by the liver into an energy source called ketones. This mild “fat-burning” state helps the body achieve rapid weight loss while preserving muscle tissue. It also SAFELY helps eliminate physical hunger while providing good levels of energy. Note: Patients who have been on this program agree that hunger disappears within 3-5 days when the Program is followed as directed.
FAQ: Is this “fat-burning” state harmful?
No, it is a mild form of “ketosis” – just strong enough to protect you from losing muscle tissue. This mild level of ketosis has not been shown to cause harm to the body. The prestigious Johns Hopkins University Hospital Weight Loss Program did a study on this type of program and found it to be helpful and medically safe. Click here to review the study.
FAQ: How long does it take to get into this “fat-burning” state where I feel no hunger?
It takes about three days to build to this level . If you fall off the plan (by eating foods not recommended during the weight loss phase—see the Quick Start book for more details) , it will generally take two to three days to rebuild the level again to the point where you no longer feel hunger or fatigue.
FAQ: Is this program safe?
Yes. It has been used and studied for the past 25 years. Outcome studies have been conclusive that the program is medically safe. Click here to review a copy of the Johns Hopkins University Study on programs like this one, that they use for their patients.
FAQ: Will I have to take vitamin or other supplements while on this diet?
NO. The foods you use are FDA approved and will provide well over 100% of the RDA for vitamins and nutrients for adults. That is one of the major advantages of using the Medifast meals that we recommend, and that are also used at the Johns Hopkins Program.
FAQ: How long can I stay on the program?
You can safely stay on the program as long as you want, to lose the weight you need. When you have reached--or are close to achieving your goal weight--we will work with you in a transition phase back to everyday foods you purchase and prepare. Even during this phase, you will continue to lose weight, although at a slower pace.
FAQ: What if I'm diabetic or a Senior Citizen, or have cardiac problems? Can I safely use this program?
YES! We have specialized tracks for people with Type II diabetes, over age 60, or with diagnosed cardiovascular problems. Click here to review the meal products and helpful articles associated with weight loss for Seniors, or those with Type 2 Diabetes and cardiovascular problems. The Medifast meal replacements we recommend not only enable quick, health weight loss, but they are disease management products, as well. If you fit into any of the above categories, we will require you to get the permission and support of your primary care doctor to start this program.
FAQ: Might I even get off some of my diabetic or high blood pressure medications?
YES! Many conditions for which you might be on medication have been shown to resolved or greatly improved following a soundly administered, medically viable weight loss program. Most patients who lose weight on our program also find that their doctors reduce or eliminate medications as their weight reduces and their health improves. This is similar to the process that bariatric surgery patients go through after they lose weight.
FAQ: Is it advisable to get physician clearance before you begin any weight loss plan or exercise program?
YES! We recommend this for everyone using any weight loss plan. While the program, methods, and products used in this program are safe (and actually promote a healthier nutrition than what the average person consumes everyday), and while you have access to expert dietitians, RN's, and the Medical Director through the Virtual Clinic and Support in Motion center Right Weigh makes available through you in its ObesityHelpCenter,
FAQ: Is it really true that I won't need to attend weekly or monthly appointments with my doctor or a dietitian in order to lose weight and participate in a comprehensive program that addresses all areas of my life that affect my obesity?
YES! Through the Virtual Clinic and ObesityHelpCenter, you will be able to attend weekly education groups led by the Medical Director and other doctors, RN's experienced in weight loss, and support groups led by people just like you, who suffered from obesity (but who overcame obesity with this program and who are committed to helping you achieve lasting success and optimal health and well-being.
FAQ: What are the charges for using the ObesityHelpCenter, the Virtual Clinic, and Support in Motion Center ?
NONE, when you participate in the nutritional part of this program by ordering meal replacement products through the Help Center at www.obesityhelpcenter.tsfl.com .
FAQ: Is this program focused solely on getting my weight off?
NO. There are numerous studies that show that quick weight loss is a motivator to sustained weight loss. That is one of the advantages, or tools, of bariatric surgery. This program provides for early fast and medically safe weight loss through the use of specially prepared and formulated meal replacements that not only satiate your appetite, but promote HEALTHY eating and nutrients that will increase your energy and metabolism. Through our Support in Motion center, the Virtual Clinic, and other resources, we also focus on lifestyle development and awareness and control of emotional eating patterns. The “Weigh of Life” course manual that accompanies your registration for the program addresses all the aspects of developing the “Lifestyle of the Thin and Healthy.”
