Medifast Diet Help & News Updates: December 2007

Monday, December 31, 2007

Trans Fat Ban - good, but not enough

Get medifast for weight loss, health, a healthy diet, and a diet plan. Medifast is a product that helps you lose weight. There are benefits to using Medifast in your diet, and can be used for weight loss. Phase 1 - 5 & 1 Program for Weight Loss 5 Medifast Meals per Day Over 50 meals to choose from - shakes, bars, drinks, oatmeals, chili, soups, pudding and more. 1 "Lean and Green" Meal per Day Lean Meat: 7 ounces of chicken, turkey of fish, or 5 ounces of lean beef, pork or lamb. Grill, bake or poach meats using non-stick spray. Salt, pepper, herbs and spices may be added if desired. You may also use 1 - 2 teaspoons of condiments such as ketchup, mustard or barbecue sauce. Salad or Vegetables: Either 2 cups of salad greens (any kind) and up to ½ cups raw vegetables, or up to 1 ½ cups cooked vegetables. You may also use 1 - 2 tablespoons of Media low-fat or non-fat dressing.Phase 2 - BeSlim™ Philosophy of Lifelong Weight Control Once you have reached your healthy weight, your Health Advisor will help transition you to the BeSlim™ philosophy of lifelong weight control. The BeSlim™ philosophy is a part of the Take Shape for Life program that incorporates key behaviors mastered by those who lost significant amounts of weight and kept their weight off for years. These key behaviors include: Breakfast (eating Breakfast every day) - High quality fuel, such as our delicious Medifast oatmeal, cappuccino, or chai latte, is essential to start your day the right way. Exercise - Continued exercise increases metabolism, provides strength, flexibility, and mental clarity. Support - Your Health Advisor is here to help you reach and maintain your goals, providing the coaching, tools, education, and caring support you will need along the way. Low-fat meals 5-6 times a day - Eating frequently, controlling portion and total calories, especially those from fat, are critical for success. Individual Plan - Create an individual plan to help you achieve an optimal healthy lifestyle and build the skills and strategies you need to cope with modern life. Monitor your weight - Weigh yourself on a regular basis to maintain optimal weight. Catch it before it becomes a challenge! Join the BeSlim™ Club today and set your life in motion! Introducing the New BeSlim Club & Rewards Program! Optimal Health is its own reward, but how about earning a bonus or two along the way? You’re on a journey to Optimal Health. You’ve made a commitment to lose weight and keep it off! You’ve earned the right to celebrate your success! The new Take Shape For Life BeSlim Club & Rewards Program is your ticket there. The BeSlim Club & Rewards Program is Take Shape For Life's progressive savings program, offering clients and Health Coaches an easy way to obtain their Medifast Meals at a savings, with exciting rewards you can earn along the way! The longer you are member of the BeSlim™ Club, the more significant your savings are and the more rewards points you’ll earn. When you join the Take Shape For Life BeSlim Club & Rewards Program, you: Enjoy your favorite Medifast Meals all month long, with orders conveniently shipped right to your door Save on your meal purchases and enjoy increased savings the longer you’re on the program Earn points towards exclusive rewards that promote healthy living Receive coupons for special savings. Enrich your life as you achieve Optimal Health Available to all, the BeSlim™ Club is a great way for individuals learning and practicing the BeSlim™ philosophy. Every time you order, you earn points towards healthful rewards. Here’s how: There’s no minimum purchase required. Redeem your reward points* for exclusive Take Shape For Life merchandise, including: Apparel, Exercise Equipment, Spa Trips, And more! Join the BeSlim Club today! Simplify Your Life -- — Receive automatic monthly shipments of your favorite Medifast Meals; Save Your Money — Enjoy savings that increase the longer you are a club member; Earn Just Rewards— Select from an array of rewards that promote healthy living and a healthy lifestyle

Trans fats are on their way out in Montgomery County restaurants. Beginning Tuesday, restaurants will have to stop using margarines, frying oils and other food products that contain more than one-half gram of trans fat per serving. Next year, oils and spreads will have to be trans fat free, as will baked goods and prepared dishes. A total ban on trans fats goes into effect in 2010.

Montgomery is the first jurisdiction in the Washington area to place limits on trans fats, which have been linked to health problems. Cities like New York and Philadelphia already have their own bans in place. Restaurant owners say they will have to spend more to replace items on their menus, like switching from margarine to butter

Calgary moves against trans fats
From CBCNews ---

The Calgary region is to become the first in the country to require restaurants to cut the use of trans fats, suspected of killing up to 5,000 Canadians a year from heart disease. Starting Jan. 1, the regional health authority — which serves more than 1.2 million people — will require that all margarines, spreads made with margarine and oils used for cooking contain a maximum of two per cent trans fats of the total fat content.

The health consequences made it imperative that the Calgary Health Region act now, said Dr. Brent Friesen, medical officer of health.

Trans fats raise the levels of low-density lipoprotein, or "bad" cholesterol, in the body and can lead to clogged arteries and heart disease.

The Heart & Stroke Foundation has estimated that consumption of trans fats accounts for 3,000 to 5,000 deaths in Canada a year. Read more...

Comments: While a ban on trans fats seem a little anticlimatic after years of research has shown the harmful effects from its consumption, nonetheless we seem some bans on its use in some areas. This goes to show that change takes time...sometimes a lot of time. Let's only hope that high-fructose corn syrup is banned for it's contribution to obesity, diabetes, and a long list of other problems.

The Health & Wellness Institute, DC PC

2008 Goal will be Health instead of Image

From NationalPost.com ---

The hottest fitness goal in 2008 will be health rather than image. And health-seekers will have more ways than ever before to achieve it, says internationally known fitness guru Marjorie O'Connor.

There's so much diversity in the numbers of programs, classes and activities people can do, O'Connor says it's impossible to limit hot trends to a simple list of Top 10 the way she could before. "At one time, it was a cookie-cutter approach." People who were already fit were the main group working out and they were primarily running or going to the gym.

"Now we also have special populations (older adults, overweight children and teens, the disabled), people with health challenges (weight, heart, multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia), and all those groups are each looking for something that will fit their challenges as well as their likes or interests," O'Connor says.

They're finding what they need in activities as diverse as outdoor boot camps and sports, to tai chi and meditation.

Fusion-type classes that blend different disciplines such as yoga and strength training, yoga and cycling, Pilates and strength training are hugely popular and will continue to be, O'Connor says. So will dance classes of any kind from ballroom and salsa to belly dancing and clogging, fuelled by popular TV reality dance shows.

Meditation used to be a hard sell -- with or without yoga -- but people are trying anything and everything to relieve their stress levels.

"Nothing seems to be hard to sell right now," O'Connor says.
"And people are willing to spend their money on health these days, more so than ever."

Leading the pack of health-hunting buyers are aging baby boomers who realize that time is ticking and they can no longer just talk about getting fit and healthy. They have to walk, run, dance, yoga or whatever the talk, O'Connor says.

The mantra next year and for years to come will be "active aging, healthy aging." Read on...

Comments: While the shift is on to health instead of image, more people will still fail at weight loss in the next 3 months than ever before... unless they focus on actions. Good health, weight loss, and fitness are a product of daily actions. The Health & Wellness Institute has been recommending that individuals who want to lose weight focus on doing one thing today that will improve their health. If you can end the day a little healthier (and a little smarter), then you'll be on the road to successfully lose weight and keep it off. Plan on reaching your goal in 2008 and keeping it!

The Health & Wellness Institute, DC PC

Smoking Bans Around the World

From Reuters.com ---

(Reuters) - Strict new bans take effect on Tuesday in two of Western Europe's final bastions for smokers, Germany and France. Ireland imposed the world's first nationwide ban on smoking in the workplace in 2004. U.S. states, including Florida and California, have had similar bans since 2003.

In November 2004, Bhutan became the first country to ban tobacco sales entirely. Here is a factbox on some other countries that have banned smoking in some form in 2007.

2007 JANUARY:

-- Hong Kong: Imposes a ban on smoking in all indoor workplaces, as well as restaurants, parks and beaches. However, bars, nightclubs and mahjong parlors are exempt until 2009.

-- Belgium: A law comes into effect banning smoking in restaurants and other places where food is served, but it is allowed in bars, cafes, etc. mainly serving drinks. These places must have ventilation installed as long as they are at least 50 sq meters in area. Belgium had banned smoking in the workplace. Read on...

Comments: How many years has it taken to actually ban smoking? And how many people are addicted to, and love to, smoke? It begs the question, when will some other consumables be banned? The time will come eventually, just like it did for smoking. The only problem is that the argument won't be the same for these items as it is for smoking, because 2nd hand smoke is harmful to others. Drinking high-fructose corn syrup filled drinks is not...unless you take it from the angle of being a burden on others financially because of the increase in health care costs that all of us must share. We'll see... All we can do is continue to spread the word and educate others about which products are the leading contributors to the obesity epidemic. Do you know which ones they are? http://www.ViceBustingDiet.com

The Health & Wellness Institute, DC PC

Health Highlights

Washington Post ---

Here are some of the latest health and medical news developments, compiled by editors ofHealthDay:

Bush Signs Extension of Child Health-Care Program Into Law

President Bush on Saturday signed legislation that would extend a controversial children's health insurance program, after twice denying attempts to expand its reach.

The extension of the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) should provide states with funds to cover those enrolled through March 2009, theAssociated Pressreported. Bush and Republican legislators contend the program will cover families that currently fall into a coverage gap -- earning too much to qualify for Medicaid but too little to afford private insurance.

But Democrats, with the support of some Republican legislators, were pushing hard for an expansion of the program to cover an estimated four million more children, theAPsaid. Their proposal, which would have added $35 billion to SCHIP coffers, was to have been paid for by an increase in the tobacco tax. read on...

Comments: Your health is the most important thing to you. Good or bad, your level of health and fitness will dictate your potential in many ways - the mental, physical, or spiritual aspect. If you have the opportunity to be healthy, don't miss it. Bad health can hit you like a freight train if you're not careful and taking care of yourself. Let 2008 be a healthy year for all of us.

The Health & Wellness Institute, DC PC

Lose weight Effortlessly, the only diet that works!

Yahoo--The New Year can always be marked by the huge spike in gym memberships and diet programs after the holidays.

For many people, this time of year is a time for change, and often people want to change how they look and feel by losing weight. If this sounds like you, then now's the time to get clear on exactly how a person goes about losing weight so you don't find yourself making the same resolution year after year.

While there are many aspects of diet that you can focus on when trying to lose weight - you can keep track of fat, fiber, protein, or carbohydrates, for example - the key is always about whether you're eating and drinking fewer calories than you are burning.

To lose about one pound per week, you'll need to eat about 500 fewer calories per day from your current daily intake. Weight loss of one to two pounds each week is considered healthy weight loss, meaning that you are losing more fat than muscle.

Start by looking at how many calories you are presently consuming. Use the food labels on products to give you an idea, not forgetting to first read the serving size at the top of the food label. (Many times, we eat what is in the entire package and that may actually be eating three servings, and thus tripling the total calories.) When you grocery shop, compare the labels on similar products and choose the one with the fewest calories.

Become a food label reader and start your weight-loss campaign by reducing the calories you consume. If you are cooking at home, many recipes now have the nutrition facts included. The key is still the serving size. If you have a recipe that you want to analyze, try looking up the ingredients at Calorie King.

Even though calories are still calories, a healthy diet needs to come first. Don't plan to cut calories from fruits, vegetables and whole grains, try cutting calories from snack foods, sweets, fast foods, condiments, or drinks. The best program that addresses this is The Vice Busting Diet, www.ViceBustingDiet.com The concept is based on elimating the biggest causes of Obesity; Fast food aka McDonalds, Soft drinks ala Coca-Cola and limiting TV time in favor of a bit more exercise!

Of course, I've said nothing about the importance of exercise in losing and keeping off the weight. That deserves its own entry.

Sunday, December 30, 2007

Medifast Diet and General Information

More Medifast Info ---

Are there certain “approved” vegetables for the Lean & Green Meal?

All vegetables promote healthful eating; however, during the weight loss phase of your plan, we do suggest that you avoid the “higher carbohydrate” vegetables in order to enhance your weight loss results. Once you Transition to the Maintenance phase of the program, we encourage you to include ALL vegetables for long-term health.

Our Vegetable List (PDF file) will help you identify the relative carbohydrate levels of these approved vegetables. If you hit a weight loss plateau, or are having trouble achieving the fat-burning state, we recommend you choose vegetables primarily from the Green category instead of from the Orange and Blue categories.

*NOTE: Carrots, corn, potatoes, peas and brussels sprouts should be avoided while in the weight loss phase of your Medifast Plan. Please add them to your diet once you transition to the Maintenance Plan.

Can I use Medifast Meals interchangeably?

One of the great benefits of Medifast Meals is that they may be used interchangeably. The bars should be limited to one (1) per day (due to their higher caloric and carbohydrate content).

What kind of snacks can I have on this program?

Medifast offers a variety of healthy, delicious snacks that can be used to augment the 5 & 1 Plan, including:

Soy Crisps (apple cinnamon, ranch or white cheddar flavors)
Crackers (multi-grain or garden vegetable flavors)
Fast Soups (beef, chicken or tomato flavors)
Other snacks you may have include:

3 celery stalks
1/2 cup sugar-free gelatin
1 sugar-free Popsicle®
2 dill pickle spears
up to 3 pieces of sugar-free gum or mints
Limit your snack intake to one (1) per day. Snacks should NOT take the place of a Medifast Meal or Lean & Green Meal.

*NOTE: Eating more than one (1) snack per day may hinder weight loss. For information on slower weight loss, please refer to our Plateau Tips (PDF file).

Can I substitute a sixth Medifast Meal for my one Lean & Green?

This is not recommended. In order to maximize effectiveness and to ensure that you get all the nutrition your body requires, the Medifast 5 & 1 Plan (5 Medifast Meals plus 1 Lean & Green Meal) should be followed – unless otherwise recommended by your physician.

Is the Lean serving size the cooked or uncooked weight?

It is the cooked weight.

How many calories are in the Medifast 5 & 1 Plan?

The Medifast 5 & 1 Plan provides 800 to 1,000 calories per day, depending on your personal selections.

Can I substitute frozen meals for my Lean & Green Meals?

Medifast does not recommend frozen dinners on the 5 & 1 Plan – primarily due to their varying calorie levels, excessive sodium content and lower protein levels.

Do any Medifast products contain MSG?

The Cream of Tomato Soup is the only product that contains MSG.

How does Medifast sweeten its products?

Medifast uses a combination of fructose and acesulfame potassium to sweeten most products. This combination is used because we have found it to make the best quality products without contributing significantly to calories, sugars or carbohydrates. For more information about Acesulfame Potassium, click here.

There are sugar alcohols in some flavors of Medifast bars (Caramel Nut and the Diabetic Plus bars). There is no Aspartame or Sucralose in Medifast products.

Medifast Resources and Diet and Meal Plans

The National Institutes of Health and the National Heart, Lung & Blood Institute support the use of BMI since it provides a more accurate measure of total body fat compared with the assessment of body weight alone.

Experts generally consider a BMI below 20 to be underweight and a BMI of 20 to 25 to be healthy. BMIs of 25 to 30 are generally considered overweight while a BMI over 30 is generally considered very overweight (obese). If you need to lose weight... Medifast Can Help.

General Information About Medifast
What is Medifast?
Medifast is a portion controlled, nutritionally balanced, low fat and clinically proven program that helps people lose weight faster and more effectively than traditional diet plans. Medifast Meals come in individual packets that you mix with water and microwave or refrigerate. Medifast is available in a wide variety of foods and flavors including shakes, soups, stew, chili, oatmeal, scrambled eggs, fruit drinks, iced teas, hot beverages, bars and puddings.

How does Medifast work?

The Medifast 5 & 1 Plan was medically designed to create a calorie deficit, allowing your body to burn fat for energy. Each nutritionally balanced Medifast Meal is formulated with a proven combination of carbohydrates and protein, allowing you to successfully lose weight while maintaining lean muscle mass.

What does the Medifast 5 & 1 Plan consist of?

The Medifast 5 & 1 Plan consists of five (5) portion controlled, nutritionally balanced Medifast Meals plus one (1) Lean & Green Meal.

What does the Lean & Green Meal consist of?

The LEAN portion of the Lean & Green Meal consists of 5-7 ounces of lean meat. For a complete list of meats and portion sizes, please refer to our Lean Options List and our Meatless Options List (PDF files).

The GREEN portion of the Lean & Green Meal consists of 3 servings of low carbohydrate vegetables from our Vegetable List (PDF file).

Medifast Diet Plan for Men

With the Medifast 5 & 1 Plan for weight loss, men can lose weight quickly and dramatically improve their health. No time for shopping or cooking? Medifast conveniently helps you lose the weight and teaches you how to keep it off! The Medifast program is nutritionally balanced, portion-controlled, and simple to follow. You’ll see and feel results in the first week!

Most men start by ordering the Medifast for Men 4-Week Package. With this package you receive the most popular Medifast Meals and save over $30.

5 & 1 Plan
With the Medifast 5 & 1 Plan, you eat 6 meals a day: 5 Medifast Meals and 1 Lean & Green Meal. You can choose any 5 Medifast Meals including shakes, bars, soups, pudding, oatmeal, scrambled eggs and more. With over 60 Medifast Meals to choose from, your menu will never lack variety! Your daily Lean & Green Meal consists of a balance of lean protein (such as beef, chicken or fish) and salad or vegetables.

With Medifast you eat every 2 to 3 hours, so you won't get hungry. The quick weight loss results you experience will inspire and motivate you to embrace Medifast as an essential part of your new, healthy lifestyle. Complete 5 & 1 Plan information is available for free in the Medifast Quick Start Guide, included with every Medifast order. Click here to read more about the 5 & 1 Plan.

Medifast Diet Resources and Meal Plans

Welcome to the Medifast Resources page. Think of this area as your Medifast Information Portal. Here you will find program guides, product / nutrition info, recipes & meal plans, and other essential tools designed to get you started and keep you motivated! Best of all, they are free of charge!

Get medifast for weight loss, health, a healthy diet, and a diet plan. Medifast is a product that helps you lose weight. There are benefits to using Medifast in your diet, and can be used for weight loss. Phase 1 - 5 & 1 Program for Weight Loss 5 Medifast Meals per Day Over 50 meals to choose from - shakes, bars, drinks, oatmeals, chili, soups, pudding and more. 1 "Lean and Green" Meal per Day Lean Meat: 7 ounces of chicken, turkey of fish, or 5 ounces of lean beef, pork or lamb. Grill, bake or poach meats using non-stick spray. Salt, pepper, herbs and spices may be added if desired. You may also use 1 - 2 teaspoons of condiments such as ketchup, mustard or barbecue sauce. Salad or Vegetables: Either 2 cups of salad greens (any kind) and up to ½ cups raw vegetables, or up to 1 ½ cups cooked vegetables. You may also use 1 - 2 tablespoons of Media low-fat or non-fat dressing.Phase 2 - BeSlim™ Philosophy of Lifelong Weight Control Once you have reached your healthy weight, your Health Advisor will help transition you to the BeSlim™ philosophy of lifelong weight control. The BeSlim™ philosophy is a part of the Take Shape for Life program that incorporates key behaviors mastered by those who lost significant amounts of weight and kept their weight off for years. These key behaviors include: Breakfast (eating Breakfast every day) - High quality fuel, such as our delicious Medifast oatmeal, cappuccino, or chai latte, is essential to start your day the right way. Exercise - Continued exercise increases metabolism, provides strength, flexibility, and mental clarity. Support - Your Health Advisor is here to help you reach and maintain your goals, providing the coaching, tools, education, and caring support you will need along the way. Low-fat meals 5-6 times a day - Eating frequently, controlling portion and total calories, especially those from fat, are critical for success. Individual Plan - Create an individual plan to help you achieve an optimal healthy lifestyle and build the skills and strategies you need to cope with modern life. Monitor your weight - Weigh yourself on a regular basis to maintain optimal weight. Catch it before it becomes a challenge! Join the BeSlim™ Club today and set your life in motion! Introducing the New BeSlim Club & Rewards Program! Optimal Health is its own reward, but how about earning a bonus or two along the way? You’re on a journey to Optimal Health. You’ve made a commitment to lose weight and keep it off! You’ve earned the right to celebrate your success! The new Take Shape For Life BeSlim Club & Rewards Program is your ticket there. The BeSlim Club & Rewards Program is Take Shape For Life's progressive savings program, offering clients and Health Coaches an easy way to obtain their Medifast Meals at a savings, with exciting rewards you can earn along the way! The longer you are member of the BeSlim™ Club, the more significant your savings are and the more rewards points you’ll earn. When you join the Take Shape For Life BeSlim Club & Rewards Program, you: Enjoy your favorite Medifast Meals all month long, with orders conveniently shipped right to your door Save on your meal purchases and enjoy increased savings the longer you’re on the program Earn points towards exclusive rewards that promote healthy living Receive coupons for special savings. Enrich your life as you achieve Optimal Health Available to all, the BeSlim™ Club is a great way for individuals learning and practicing the BeSlim™ philosophy. Every time you order, you earn points towards healthful rewards. Here’s how: There’s no minimum purchase required. Redeem your reward points* for exclusive Take Shape For Life merchandise, including: Apparel, Exercise Equipment, Spa Trips, And more! Join the BeSlim Club today! Simplify Your Life -- — Receive automatic monthly shipments of your favorite Medifast Meals; Save Your Money — Enjoy savings that increase the longer you are a club member; Earn Just Rewards— Select from an array of rewards that promote healthy living and a healthy lifestyle

Medifast Diet and Science

The Medifast program has been helping people lose weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle for more than 25 years. Medifast programs and products were developed by a physician and have been clinically proven in numerous studies conducted by major university teaching hospitals. Additionally, third party studies published in leading medical journals have deemed meal replacements as an effective means of weight loss and weight maintenance. Medifast has been recommended by over 15,000 physicians and used by more than 1 million customers.

Get medifast for weight loss, health, a healthy diet, and a diet plan. Medifast is a product that helps you lose weight. There are benefits to using Medifast in your diet, and can be used for weight loss. Phase 1 - 5 & 1 Program for Weight Loss 5 Medifast Meals per Day Over 50 meals to choose from - shakes, bars, drinks, oatmeals, chili, soups, pudding and more. 1 "Lean and Green" Meal per Day Lean Meat: 7 ounces of chicken, turkey of fish, or 5 ounces of lean beef, pork or lamb. Grill, bake or poach meats using non-stick spray. Salt, pepper, herbs and spices may be added if desired. You may also use 1 - 2 teaspoons of condiments such as ketchup, mustard or barbecue sauce. Salad or Vegetables: Either 2 cups of salad greens (any kind) and up to ½ cups raw vegetables, or up to 1 ½ cups cooked vegetables. You may also use 1 - 2 tablespoons of Media low-fat or non-fat dressing.Phase 2 - BeSlim™ Philosophy of Lifelong Weight Control Once you have reached your healthy weight, your Health Advisor will help transition you to the BeSlim™ philosophy of lifelong weight control. The BeSlim™ philosophy is a part of the Take Shape for Life program that incorporates key behaviors mastered by those who lost significant amounts of weight and kept their weight off for years. These key behaviors include: Breakfast (eating Breakfast every day) - High quality fuel, such as our delicious Medifast oatmeal, cappuccino, or chai latte, is essential to start your day the right way. Exercise - Continued exercise increases metabolism, provides strength, flexibility, and mental clarity. Support - Your Health Advisor is here to help you reach and maintain your goals, providing the coaching, tools, education, and caring support you will need along the way. Low-fat meals 5-6 times a day - Eating frequently, controlling portion and total calories, especially those from fat, are critical for success. Individual Plan - Create an individual plan to help you achieve an optimal healthy lifestyle and build the skills and strategies you need to cope with modern life. Monitor your weight - Weigh yourself on a regular basis to maintain optimal weight. Catch it before it becomes a challenge! Join the BeSlim™ Club today and set your life in motion! Introducing the New BeSlim Club & Rewards Program! Optimal Health is its own reward, but how about earning a bonus or two along the way? You’re on a journey to Optimal Health. You’ve made a commitment to lose weight and keep it off! You’ve earned the right to celebrate your success! The new Take Shape For Life BeSlim Club & Rewards Program is your ticket there. The BeSlim Club & Rewards Program is Take Shape For Life's progressive savings program, offering clients and Health Coaches an easy way to obtain their Medifast Meals at a savings, with exciting rewards you can earn along the way! The longer you are member of the BeSlim™ Club, the more significant your savings are and the more rewards points you’ll earn. When you join the Take Shape For Life BeSlim Club & Rewards Program, you: Enjoy your favorite Medifast Meals all month long, with orders conveniently shipped right to your door Save on your meal purchases and enjoy increased savings the longer you’re on the program Earn points towards exclusive rewards that promote healthy living Receive coupons for special savings. Enrich your life as you achieve Optimal Health Available to all, the BeSlim™ Club is a great way for individuals learning and practicing the BeSlim™ philosophy. Every time you order, you earn points towards healthful rewards. Here’s how: There’s no minimum purchase required. Redeem your reward points* for exclusive Take Shape For Life merchandise, including: Apparel, Exercise Equipment, Spa Trips, And more! Join the BeSlim Club today! Simplify Your Life -- — Receive automatic monthly shipments of your favorite Medifast Meals; Save Your Money — Enjoy savings that increase the longer you are a club member; Earn Just Rewards— Select from an array of rewards that promote healthy living and a healthy lifestyle

Medifast Meals are nutritionally complete, low calorie and low fat – providing everything your body needs to lose weight quickly and safely. Medifast Meals contain a medically designed balance of protein and carbohydrates as well as 24 or more essential vitamins and minerals per serving – ensuring your daily nutritional requirements are met while losing weight on the program. Unlike fad diets that restrict a specific macronutrient such as protein or carbohydrates, Medifast is nutritionally balanced —allowing you to maintain lean muscle as you lose weight. This helps you continue to burn fat as you transition and maintain your weight loss long term.

Most Medifast Meals are formulated with heart healthy soy protein, which may reduce the risk of heart disease according to some research studies. Soy’s naturally occurring isoflavones may also help reduce the risk of bone fractures and osteoporosis. Soy protein is a complete protein – providing all of the essential amino acids. Medifast also manufactures a product line formulated with whey protein, for customers who have an allergy to soy or prefer a non-soy product.

Clinical Research Using Medifast Products
Study 1
REFERENCE: Crowell, M.D. & Cheskin L.J, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Multicenter Evaluation of Health Benefits and Weight Loss on the Medifast Weight Management Program.

PURPOSE: To retrospectively evaluate the efficacy of a medically supervised, protein-supplemented modified fasting program (Medifast) for weight reduction and to evaluate the impact of weight reduction on coexisting health problems.

RESULTS: The results of the study concluded that medically-supervised, protein-sparing modified fasts offer a safe and effective means of weight reduction and are accompanied by significant improvements in coexisting health problems. Of samples taken, males lost an average of 67 lbs and females lost an average of 47 lbs. The study found significant reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, total cholesterol and triglycerides, as well as the normalizing of blood pressure and hypertensive patients.

Study 2
Conducted from 5/1/02-4/30/04 Publication in ADA journal/ADA national meeting, June 2005.

REFERENCE: Cheskin, MD, FACP, Mitchell, MS, Lewis, BA, Jhaveri, MD Yep, BS. Johns Hopkins University School of Bloomberg Public Health. Efficacy of 2 Diet Plans Designed for People with Type 2 Diabetes on Weight and Health Measures (Published at American Diabetes Association’s 65th Annual Scientific Session in San Diego, CA, June 11, 2005. The information was peer reviewed and printed in ADA’s Diabetes Journal as a written published abstract. Dr. Cheskin is currently pursuing publication in a leading medical journal.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the efficacy of the standard ADA (American Diabetic Association) self-selected diet (SD) vs. a portion controlled diabetic food diet (PCD) in obese patients with NIDDM. The study also aims to evaluate not only the metabolic effects in the long term, but also compliance and any consequent medication changes in patients of the two weight loss regimens. (16-34 weeks of active weight loss, 52 weeks of maintenance) The meal replacements (Medifast) used in this study are soy-based products (bars, shakes, soups) that are considerably lower in sugar than their non-diabetic counterparts and other popular diet products on the market.

RESULTS DISCUSSION: Significantly greater results were achieved after the initial 34-weeks of weight loss by participants in the PCD group in pounds and percent weight loss, insulin level and hemoglobin A1c. The PCD group also saw significant improvements within group in BMI, systolic BP, diastolic BP, waist/hip measurements, cholesterol, HDL triglycerides, glucose and percent body fat. Dropout rates were less in the PCD in both weight loss and weight maintenance. During weight loss, participants in the PCD group significantly decreased their use of medications to treat Type 2 DM. Participants in the PCD group also self-reported higher ease of compliance with the diet compared to the SD group (64.2% vs. 56.0%).

It is our recommendation that a PCD be considered for type 2 diabetics desiring weight loss, but that periodic use of SD during weight maintenance will not adversely affect weight loss efforts. Our research supports that using a portion-controlled diet will produce comparable if not better outcomes in type 2 diabetics attempting to control their weight.

Study 3
REFERENCE: National Institutes of Health: Impaired Capacity to Lose Visceral Adipose Tissue During Weight Reduction in Obese Postmenopausal Women With the Trp64Arg B3- Adrenoceptor Gene Variant

PURPOSE: The study examined whether women on a weight loss program who are carriers of a genetic variant (Trp64Arg) lose less visceral fat than women who do not have this gene. Participants entered a medically supervised weight loss program aimed at reducing body weight to less than 120% of ideal value. Food was self selected with dietitian supervision, with or without the inclusion of the TakeShape, a Medifast brand modified fasting supplement.

RESULTS DISCUSSION: Results from the study showed that reductions in body weight, BMI, total fat mass and fat-free mass were not significantly different between carriers and non-carriers of the variant. Both groups experienced weight reduction of 31-36.1 pounds, which the study identified as a significant weight loss effect.

Current Active Research
Efficacy of Parent-Child Dieting Plans Incorporating Medifast Meal Replacements for Weight Loss. Principle Investigator Cheskin, MD, FACP

(18 month study, 6-month weight loss phase, 12-month maintenance phase)
Study examines a joint parent-child dieting approach, as opposed to an individually based approach, to improve weight loss outcomes. Compares diet using Medifast meal replacements to a non-supplemented Food Guide pyramid based diet. Comparative points include, overall weight loss, compliance, palatability, dietary quality and dietary satisfaction. The study also examines whether children who lose weight-using Medifast meal replacements as an adjunct to a Food Guide-pyramid based diet achieve health benefits compared to baseline values and are these health benefits greater than those obtained following the reference diet.

Medifast Diet Program Info

Medifast is a portion-controlled, low-calorie weight loss program that helps you lose weight faster and more effectively than traditional diets. The clinically proven, easy-to-follow Medifast 5 & 1 Plan helps your body burn fat and lose weight quickly. There is no calorie counting, no points system, no diet pills and best of all – no confusion!

Get medifast for weight loss, health, a healthy diet, and a diet plan. Medifast is a product that helps you lose weight. There are benefits to using Medifast in your diet, and can be used for weight loss. Phase 1 - 5 & 1 Program for Weight Loss 5 Medifast Meals per Day Over 50 meals to choose from - shakes, bars, drinks, oatmeals, chili, soups, pudding and more. 1 "Lean and Green" Meal per Day Lean Meat: 7 ounces of chicken, turkey of fish, or 5 ounces of lean beef, pork or lamb. Grill, bake or poach meats using non-stick spray. Salt, pepper, herbs and spices may be added if desired. You may also use 1 - 2 teaspoons of condiments such as ketchup, mustard or barbecue sauce. Salad or Vegetables: Either 2 cups of salad greens (any kind) and up to ½ cups raw vegetables, or up to 1 ½ cups cooked vegetables. You may also use 1 - 2 tablespoons of Media low-fat or non-fat dressing.Phase 2 - BeSlim™ Philosophy of Lifelong Weight Control Once you have reached your healthy weight, your Health Advisor will help transition you to the BeSlim™ philosophy of lifelong weight control. The BeSlim™ philosophy is a part of the Take Shape for Life program that incorporates key behaviors mastered by those who lost significant amounts of weight and kept their weight off for years. These key behaviors include: Breakfast (eating Breakfast every day) - High quality fuel, such as our delicious Medifast oatmeal, cappuccino, or chai latte, is essential to start your day the right way. Exercise - Continued exercise increases metabolism, provides strength, flexibility, and mental clarity. Support - Your Health Advisor is here to help you reach and maintain your goals, providing the coaching, tools, education, and caring support you will need along the way. Low-fat meals 5-6 times a day - Eating frequently, controlling portion and total calories, especially those from fat, are critical for success. Individual Plan - Create an individual plan to help you achieve an optimal healthy lifestyle and build the skills and strategies you need to cope with modern life. Monitor your weight - Weigh yourself on a regular basis to maintain optimal weight. Catch it before it becomes a challenge! Join the BeSlim™ Club today and set your life in motion! Introducing the New BeSlim Club & Rewards Program! Optimal Health is its own reward, but how about earning a bonus or two along the way? You’re on a journey to Optimal Health. You’ve made a commitment to lose weight and keep it off! You’ve earned the right to celebrate your success! The new Take Shape For Life BeSlim Club & Rewards Program is your ticket there. The BeSlim Club & Rewards Program is Take Shape For Life's progressive savings program, offering clients and Health Coaches an easy way to obtain their Medifast Meals at a savings, with exciting rewards you can earn along the way! The longer you are member of the BeSlim™ Club, the more significant your savings are and the more rewards points you’ll earn. When you join the Take Shape For Life BeSlim Club & Rewards Program, you: Enjoy your favorite Medifast Meals all month long, with orders conveniently shipped right to your door Save on your meal purchases and enjoy increased savings the longer you’re on the program Earn points towards exclusive rewards that promote healthy living Receive coupons for special savings. Enrich your life as you achieve Optimal Health Available to all, the BeSlim™ Club is a great way for individuals learning and practicing the BeSlim™ philosophy. Every time you order, you earn points towards healthful rewards. Here’s how: There’s no minimum purchase required. Redeem your reward points* for exclusive Take Shape For Life merchandise, including: Apparel, Exercise Equipment, Spa Trips, And more! Join the BeSlim Club today! Simplify Your Life -- — Receive automatic monthly shipments of your favorite Medifast Meals; Save Your Money — Enjoy savings that increase the longer you are a club member; Earn Just Rewards— Select from an array of rewards that promote healthy living and a healthy lifestyle

Remember, Medifast is a lifestyle change, not just a short-term weight loss solution. We won’t abandon you the way fad diets have in the past. Our Transition, Maintenance and Exercise Plans pick up where the 5 & 1 Plan ends – and teach you how to sustain your weight loss results long term!

5 & 1 Plan
With the Medifast 5 & 1 Plan, you eat 6 meals a day: 5 Medifast Meals and 1 Lean & Green Meal. You can choose any 5 Medifast Meals including shakes, bars, soups, pudding, oatmeal, scrambled eggs and more. With over 60 Medifast Meals to choose from, your menu will never lack variety! Your daily Lean & Green Meal consists of a balance of lean protein (such as beef, chicken or fish) and salad or vegetables.

With Medifast you eat every 2 to 3 hours, so you won't get hungry. The quick weight loss results you experience will inspire and motivate you to embrace Medifast as an essential part of your new, healthy lifestyle. Complete 5 & 1 Plan information is available for free in the Medifast Quick Start Guide, included with every Medifast order. Click here to read more about Medifast's 5 & 1 Plan.

Transition
You begin Transition after you have reached your goal weight. Transition reintroduces you to foods you previously put on hold – foods such as fruits, low-fat dairy products, whole grains and higher-carbohydrate vegetables. Transition gradually adds calories back into your diet, while giving your body the appropriate time it needs to adjust to the new levels of calories and carbohydrates. The 5 & 1 Plan helped you develop healthful eating habits, such as portion-control and eating 6 times per day. Transition and Maintenance reinforce these patterns of healthy eating to help you maintain your weight loss results. Click here to read more about Medifast.

Maintenance
In Maintenance, you learn how to sustain your weight loss results by making healthy food choices and living an active lifestyle. The ultimate goal of Maintenance is to help you remain at a healthy weight for the rest of your life. The actual number of calories needed to maintain a stable weight long-term is individual – you may need to experiment with different calorie levels during Maintenance to find the level that's right for you. Complete Transition and Maintenance information is available for free in the Medifast Transition & Maintenance Guide. Click here to read more about Medifast Diet.

Exercise
Regular exercise is a necessary part of losing weight and maintaining weight loss. It can also help prevent many chronic diseases and improve your overall mood. Walking is one of the easiest ways to incorporate exercise into your daily schedule. Check the Medifast Exercise Guide for more information on how exercise can conveniently be integrated into the Medifast program. Click here to read more about Medifast and Exercise.