Frequently Asked Questions

The following conditions are contraindicated for the Intensive Level of the OPTIFAST VLCD Program:

• Normal weight (BMI <25kg m2)
• Pregnancy
• Breastfeeding
• Children < 18 years
• Presence of Porphyria
• Recent myocardial infarction or unstable angina
• Severe/advanced renal or liver failure

Precautions may need to be taken when using the OPTIFAST VLCD Program if you present with any of the following;

• Age >65 years
• History of severe psychological disturbance, alcoholism or drug abuse
• Cholelithiasis or past history of gall stones
• Pancreatitis
• Gout
• Fertility issues

It is essential that you seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional who can help manage and advise you on which level of the OPTIFAST VLCD Program is right for your weight management needs.

The Intensive Level of the OPTIFAST VLCD Program (replacing all 3 meals with OPTIFAST VLCD products) is not recommended for women who are breastfeeding as it is not designed to meet the increased nutritional demands of lactation. Speak to your healthcare professional about whether Active 2 or Active 1 Levels are appropriate for you.

As the program is contraindicated during pregnancy, it is not appropriate to go on the OPTIFAST VLCD Program if you are planning to become pregnant in case you become pregnant and are not aware. The low carbohydrate and calorie content as well as the quantity of vitamins and minerals are not sufficient to meet the increased nutrient requirements of pregnancy (e.g. iron and some B group vitamins). In addition, the low carbohydrate content is designed to induce ketosis (fat breakdown) which leads to ketones in the blood. Although the level of ketones is fairly low, the effect on the foetus is unknown.

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.

It is recommended that OPTIFAST VLCD be taken under the supervision of a healthcare professional such as a pharmacist, doctor, hospital specialist or dietitian. Medical conditions and medications must be taken into consideration prior to deciding if the program is appropriate for you. As well as this, research has shown that having the support and guidance of a healthcare professional will make the program far more successful as the plan can be tailored to your needs.