MEDICAL SUPERVISION
Why seek medical supervision?
We recommend that OPTIFAST VLCD be taken under the supervision of a healthcare professional such as a Pharmacist, Doctor, Specialist or Accredited Practising Dietitian.
They can tailor the plan to suit your specific likes and dislikes, medical conditions, nutritional needs, physical activity levels and lifestyle. Otherwise you may find yourself on the wrong plan, leaving you disheartened that you have not been successful on the OPTIFAST VLCD Program.
Aspects to consider
Precautions
Precautions may need to be taken when using the OPTIFAST VLCD Program if any of the following pertain to you:
- Age >65 years
- History of severe psychological disturbance, alcoholism or drug abuse
- Cholelithiasis or past history of gall stones
- Pancreatitis
- Fertility issues
It is essential that you seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional who can help manage and advise you on which phase of the OPTIFAST Program is right for your weight management needs.
Medications
There are no active ingredients in the OPTIFAST VLCD products that will directly interact with any medications.
It is mainly that the weight loss process can affect the efficacy of some medications and some medications will impact your weight loss goals. Therefore, if you are on any medication it is very important to consult your doctor prior to commencing the OPTIFAST VLCD Program
Potential Side Effects
OPTIFAST VLCD is accepted as being a safe form of weight loss with only minor, transient side effects being observed. These side effects are a result of the rapid weight loss and Ketosis and may include: sensitivity to cold, halitosis (bad breath), headache, hair loss, irritability, postural hypotension, fatigue, muscle cramps and menstrual disturbances. These side effects are generally insufficient in magnitude or duration to warrant cessation of the program.
As with any major dietary adjustment, the first few days on the OPTIFAST VLCD Program can be difficult and are commonly known as the ‘3 Day Challenge’. As the body transitions into ketosis, you may experience some transient side effects such as fatigue, hunger, lack of concentration, nausea and headaches. Typically, only mild ketosis occurs during the OPTIFAST VLCD Program and most symptoms pass by in 4-6 days.