Long Term Weight Loss Goals

It is often mentioned in the lay press and amongst healthcare professionals that "the faster you lose weight, the quicker you regain it", yet there is little evidence to support this assumption and in fact the opposite may be true. Post hoc analyses of weight loss intervention studies show that a greater initial weight loss, usually achieved in the first 2-4 weeks of treatment, is associated with a better long-term outcome, i.e. a sustained weight loss 1-5 years later¹.

VLED vs Non-VLED weight losses¹

A recent study by Purcell et al. randomised 200 participants to either a 36-week gradual weight loss group or a 12-week rapid weight loss group using a VLED. Participants that lost 12.5% of their initial weight loss from both groups were then placed onto a 144-week weight maintenance group. What they found was the amount of weight regain was similar in both groups. The author concluded that the rate of weight loss does not affect the proportion of weight regained with 144 weeks².

References
1. Delbridge, E. and J. Proietto, State of the science: VLED (very Low Energy Diet) for obesity. Asia Pacific Journal Clinical Nutrition, 2006. 15 (Suppl): p. 49-54.
2. Purcell, K., et al., The effect of rate of weight loss on long-term weight management: a randomised controlled trial. The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, 2014. 2(12): p. 954-962.

Overview of Very Low Energy Diets

Very Low Energy Diets (VLED), also known as Very Low Calorie Diets (VLCD) have been shown to be very effective in the management of obesity, with weekly weight losses averaging approximately 1.0 -2.5kg per week, providing greater initial weight loss than other forms of calorie restriction.
Expected rate of weight loss on Intensive Level

During the Intensive Level of the OPTIFAST Program, weight loss averages 1.0 to 2.5kg/week with an average total loss of 20kg after 12 to 16 weeks.
Long term weight loss goals

It is often mentioned in the lay press and amongst healthcare professionals that "the faster you lose weight, the quicker you regain it", yet there is little evidence to support this assumption and in fact the opposite may be true.
Mechanics of a VLED

A VLED works by restricting total energy intake to approximately 800 calories (3300kJ) or less per day. Weight loss with a VLED is achieved by restriction of both carbohydrate and total energy intake. This enables the body to use its body fat stores for energy via a metabolic process called ketosis.
Patient suitability

For a patient to succeed with the OPTIFAST VLCD Program, it is important to assess their readiness to undertake the necessary behaviour changes required for effective weight management.
Calculating ideal body weight

Ideal body weight is calculated to help determine an appropriate weight for height or to determine a long term weight loss goal. We recommend that you use the ‘Adjusted Ideal Body Weight’ calculation.
Calculating protein requirements

OPTIFAST VLCD is formulated to contain adequate high quality protein in sufficient quantities for nitrogen sparing and to preserve lean body mass.
Medical monitoring

As a healthcare professional, you can tailor the program to suit your patient's specific needs.
Long-term weight management with the OPTIFAST VLCD Program

Research has shown that having the support and guidance of a healthcare professional will make the program more successful for your patients.
Bariatric surgery and the OPTIFAST VLCD Program

Surgical intervention by way of bariatric surgery can result in substantial weight loss that is sustained over the long term when combined with education, ongoing monitoring and patient support.
Diabetes and the OPTIFAST VLCD Program

Most overweight and obese patients with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes are eligible to use OPTIFAST VLCD as part of an overall management program that emphasises the importance of ongoing weight maintenance.
References