Optifast program

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The Optifast program is a one-year, medically and psychologically supervised program for weight loss and permanent weight maintenance without the yo-yo effect . In the so-called fasting phase, the food consists of a formula diet (finished products). The outpatient therapy program is offered in around 35 centers in Germany and Austria. The program has been marketed by Nestle Nutrition since June 2008 . Before June 2008 it was distributed by Novartis Nutrition GmbH .

Structure of the program

Optifast consists of a fasting phase of 12 weeks, a transition phase of six weeks and an increase and stabilization phase . The program lasts 52 weeks in total. There are weekly group sessions with 10 to 14 people who receive medical and psychological support. A nutritionist instructs the group on proper eating habits. In addition, in the first 26 weeks after the group meeting, there is a range of sports (water) gymnastics or other suitable sports ( Nordic walking ).

Fasting phase

The fasting phase consists of 5 bags of powdered food per day, which can be obtained from the Optifast centers. The powder is dissolved in water and is available in different flavors. The total calorie intake during this time is about 800 kcal per day, which in most cases leads to a drastic decrease in the patient. The high protein content of the powder is hoped to prevent muscle breakdown. This should be supported by weekly strengthening exercises, which are supervised by physiotherapists. Furthermore, the need to do sport privately is conveyed, which is supposed to promote fat loss. You should also consume at least 2.5 liters of unsweetened liquid per day during the entire time.

Transition phase

During these six weeks, the bagged food is gradually replaced with normal food. A "traffic light" point system is introduced, which - to put it simply - red (fat content ≥ 80% e.g. butter; sugar-fat mixture e.g. chocolate), yellow (fat and protein e.g. meat, Milk) and green dots (carbohydrates e.g. bread, vegetables, potatoes). In the first week of the changeover, 4 green dots (corresponds to a bread roll and an apple) and one yellow dot (e.g. 60 gr. Salmon ham) are available daily, in addition to this, 4 bags of powdered food are consumed daily during this week. This system intends to eat “consciously” early on. This way, points can be saved and consumed on other days.

Increase and stabilization phase

The amount of food is now gradually increased (this is done by increasing the "points account") until the patient no longer loses weight. It can be very different from person to person. In the further course of the therapy program (by lowering the points and / or inserting a bag phase shortened to 6 weeks) there is the possibility of further reducing the weight to the desired weight.

The different programs

  • Optifast 52

The classic Optifast program with a duration of 52 weeks. For structure and description, see "Structure of the program".

  • Optifast II

The short program with a duration of 15 weeks is aimed at people with a BMI of approx. 25–30. The course of therapy also includes a fasting phase (6 weeks), a conversion phase (5 weeks) and a stabilization phase. In contrast to the classic program, it only contains instructions for exercise therapy.

  • Optifast home

The “home” version of the program is aimed at people with a BMI of approx. 25–30. The course of therapy deviates here. It provides for a fasting phase (3 weeks) and a transition phase (3 weeks). The stabilization phase is not a mandatory part of the program, but can be perceived individually. The most significant difference to the other programs is the telephone support, which replaces participation in outpatient appointments and group meetings.

Pros and cons

Per

  • Rapid weight loss in the first 12 weeks (motivation)
  • Muscle breakdown is attempted to be prevented by high protein doses
  • The point system is based on the recommendations of the DGE
  • Relatively long therapy period (intensive stabilization)

Contra

  • Time-consuming as you are bound one evening a week
  • Muscle breakdown cannot be completely avoided
  • Costs around € 3,000 (in Linz / Danube already € 4,200, day therapy costs of € 8.22; savings of around € 500 through fasting); however, some health insurances subsidize the program
  • The relapse rate is controversial. According to a study (see web links), the long-term success rate is 58%

Web links