Many people have heard of the Slim-Fast diet and have seen Slim-Fast shakes in the grocery store and drugstore. Given that the Slim-Fast weight loss program was originally developed in 1977, according to "The Slim-Fast Body, Mind, Life Makeover," it would be difficult not to have stumbled across a Slim-Fast product or two. If you're wishing to shed a few pounds you may be wondering if the Slim-Fast diet is right for you. Learning about Slim-Fast shakes and the Slim-Fast diet can assist you in determining if it would be beneficial in your weight loss endeavors. Consult your physician prior to starting the Slim-Fast diet or any other weight loss program.
Slimfast Shakes
Slim-Fast shakes are available in both ready-to-drink and powdered varieties. The shakes are available in chocolate, vanilla, cappuccino and strawberry flavors. Each shake provides 180 to 190 calories, approximately 15 g of protein and approximately 30 percent of your daily recommended dietary intake of all vitamins and minerals, according to "The Slim-Fast Body, Mind, Life Makeover." Slim-Fast shakes are intended to be consumed in place of a traditional meal.
Slimfast Diet Guidelines
The Slim-Fast diet requires you to eat six times per day. Your morning starts with a Slim-Fast bar or shake for breakfast. Enjoy a mid-morning snack consisting of either a serving of fruit or a Slim-Fast snack bar. Lunch consists of a Slim-Fast shake or bar. Eat another serving of fruit or a Slim-Fast snack bar for your mid-afternoon snack. Eat a balanced 500-calorie meal consisting of lean protein, vegetables and complex carbohydrates for dinner. For your bedtime snack, eat a serving of fruit or a Slim-Fast snack bar.
Considerations
The Slim-Fast diet provides approximately 1,200 calories per day. The "Handbook of Obesity Treatment," states that this is the minimum amount of calories necessary per day to sustain healthy metabolic function and may not be sufficient for people who exercise, are very overweight or suffer from medical conditions. Slim-Fast dieters are expected to lose 1 to 2 lbs. per week, according to "The Slim-Fast Body, Mind, Life Makeover." However, success on the Slim-Fast diet requires compliance with the program. Many people find the Slim-Fast diet too restrictive and get bored with eating Slim-Fast bars and drinking Slim-Fast shakes, according to "Nutrition: Concepts and Controversies."
Alternatives
Weight loss simply requires you burn more calories per day than you consume. Unless contraindicated by a health condition, you don't have to give up your favorite foods to lose weight. Instead, they must be consumed in moderation. Sustained weight loss requires more than a diet; it requires a lifestyle change. A healthy lifestyle includes regular exercise and a balanced diet. Consult a dietitian if you are struggling to develop a weight loss plan you can live with.
References
- "Nutrition: Concepts and Controversies"; Frances Sizer; 2008
- "The Slim-Fast Body, Mind, Life Makeover"; Lauren Hutton, et al.; 2000
- "Handbook of Obesity Treatment"; Thomas A. Wadden PhD, et al.; 2004
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