How To Lose Weight With The Slim-fast Plan

An advantage of the Slim-Fast plan is that the diet maps out food options for you. It requires no measuring and it isn't necessary to count calories as long as you follow the food guidelines and eat the portions outlined in the plan. Having fewer decisions to make about food, eating a calorie-controlled diet, following the recommended exercise program and consuming the vitamin-fortified Slim-Fast products allow you to simplify the weight-loss process. The Arthritis Foundation lists the Slim-Fast plan as a popular weight loss method. You can customize the Slim-Fast plan to meet your weight loss needs.

Step 1

Consume two Slim-Fast shakes or meal bars each day, one for breakfast and one for lunch.

Step 2

Eat three snacks each day. Select two healthy snacks containing 60 to 90 calories and one snack containing 100 to 150 calories. Choose snacks with fiber such as nuts, fruit or vegetables to satisfy your hunger and reduce cravings.

Step 3

Eat a healthy 500-calorie dinner including lean protein, such as poultry, fish, meat or a vegetarian option, two vegetable servings and a green salad. The Slim-Fast plan suggests filling half your plate with vegetables and filling one-fourth of your plate with protein. Limit starch, which preferably should be in whole grain form, to one 1/2 cup serving or one-fourth of your plate. Follow these guidelines to design your own dinners or try menus from the Slim-Fast website or book.

Step 4

Follow the Slim-Fast plan's recommendation of exercising an hour a day. If you're out of shape or have a demanding schedule, start with two 10-minute walks twice a day. Increase your time as soon as possible and keep track of your exercise time on a calendar. Three 15-minute walks adds up to 45 minutes of exercise. As soon as you're able to, increase your walking time to three 20-minute walks or two 30-minute walks.

Tips and Warnings

The Slim-Fast "High Protein" shakes have 15g of protein per serving compared to 10g in the regular formula. Stick to your diet. If you get off-track, get right back on your diet. An occasional slip won't derail your weight loss. Write down your specific weight-loss goals and your reasons for wanting to lose weight. Read the list often. A weight loss 1 to 2 pounds a week is healthy and increases your chances of keeping the weight off long-term.
Check with your doctor before beginning a diet and exercise program if you have any medical concerns. The sugar content of some Slim-Fast products may not be suitable for diabetics and people with hypoglycemia.