A liquid diet is a weight-loss diet reserved for people who are obese. An obese individual weighs 20 percent more than his ideal body weight, according to Vanderbilt University. Most liquid diets are very low-calorie diets containing 400 to 800 calories a day. People considering a liquid diet for weight loss should first consult with their physician to discuss safety, and these diets should only be followed under the supervision of a physician.
Optifast
Optifast is a liquid weight-loss plan that offers a complete medical weight-loss program. In addition to the liquid shakes, Optifast offers a medical evaluation, group and individual counseling, and lifestyle education to help the dieter lose weight and keep it off. Optifast is a complete meal-replacement program, meaning the dieter's only source of nutrition is the five Optifast shakes she drinks a day. The pre-portioned, calorie-controlled shakes come in a variety of flavors and require minimal preparation. Dieters can lose up to 52 lbs. in 22 weeks following the Optifast diet, according to its website.
Medifast
Medifast is another liquid diet plan, but it offers more than shakes. The dieter following the Medifast weight-loss program consumes five Medifast shakes, or other Medifast products, and one regular meal consisting of a lean protein and a non-starchy vegetable. The Medifast meals are low in fat and carbohydrates and are calorie-controlled. In addition to shakes, Medifast also offers scrambled eggs, hot cereal, soups, chili, iced tea and meal bars. People who follow the Medifast diet lose 2 to 5 lbs. a week, according to its website. The Medifast program also includes a transitional plan to help the dieter transition to regular food as part of the weight-maintenance program.
Slim-Fast
Slim-Fast is a commercial weight-loss program. Slim-Fast products can be found in most grocery stores and pharmacies. The Slim-Fast diet plan includes two shakes a day, three snacks and one regular, balanced meal. Slim-Fast offers a number of different-flavored shakes to choose from, including Cappuccino Delight and French Vanilla. Slim-Fast also offers meal-replacement bars as an alternative to the Slim-Fast Shake. The regular, balanced meal should contain about 500 calories, according to Slim-Fast's website. The meal should include a lean protein, a non-starchy vegetable and a whole grain. Slim-Fast snacks should contain no more than 100 calories, and it is recommended that dieters choose Slim-Fast snack bars or fruit to snack on. Slim-Fast recommends its dieters lose no more than 1 to 2 lbs. a week.
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