The OPTIFAST Program is a very low energy diet program, consisting of 4 levels. The program is designed to start on the Intensive Level (where you replace all 3 meals with OPTIFAST VLCD products) and move through the levels as desired weight loss is achieved.
Very low energy diet (VLED) programs are widely researched, showing clinical efficacy for safe and effective weight loss.1,2 OPTIFAST is used in over 80 clinical publications worldwide, demonstrating the positive effects and safe outcomes on weight management. This research includes comprehensive programs where individuals are transitioned through each level to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Program level recommendation and selection
Australian Obesity Management Algorithm for primary care recommends that obesity management pathways should be determined by a person’s anthropometry – body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC), and the presence and severity of obesity-related complications.3
OPTIFAST Program level recommendations within the OPTIFAST My Program app are provided based on the following:*^
- BMI ≥ 30kg/m2, or ≥27 kg/m2 with comorbidities^4
· Intensive Level: Replace 3 meals a day for up to 12 weeks (<800 kcal/day)
- Individuals who have completed the Intensive Level intervention and are ready to start transitioning onto regular meals,2those who have comorbidities which determine the Intensive Level to be unsuitable,5 or those who are overweight (BMI 25-29 kg/m2) where a reduced calorie diet is required but a VLED is not suitable.4,6
· Active Level 2: Replace 2 meals a day (~1000 kcal/day)
· Active Level 1: Replace 1 meal a day (~1200 kcal/day)
· Maintenance Level: calorie-controlled diet (~1500 kcal/day)
The OPTIFAST My Program App provides a selection of healthy meal options for individuals to choose from in accordance with their selected program level.
*In addition to the program level recommended, all individuals are presented with other less-restrictive levels which are also appropriate for their specified BMI and medical history. All users are recommended to speak to their healthcare professional for advice.
^Certain medical conditions and ages are not suitable for the Intensive Level of the Program, and these are considered in the App recommendations. Individuals should speak to their healthcare professional for further advice.
The OPTIFAST Program Intensive Level is classified as a very low energy diet (VLED), where all 3 meals are replaced with very low energy foods. VLEDs are regulated by FSANZ consisting of a range of food for special medical purposes specially formulated for the dietary management of overweight and obesity and provides the sole source of nutrition. Their compositional requirements are stipulated under the Food Standards Code 2.9.5 Schedule 5 Clause 18.7
VLEDs are used as a total diet replacement, typically for up to 12 weeks, and are indicated for individuals with a BMI of 30kg/m2 and above, or 27 kg/m2 and above with weight-related health conditions.4^ A daily intake of three very low energy food products provides up to 800kcal (3345kJ) per day, whilst including sufficient protein, fatty acids, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals for safe and fast weight loss on the OPTIFAST Program.4
The OPTIFAST Program Active 2 and Active 1 Levels are classified as a low energy diet (LED).1
An LED aims to reduce total daily energy intake to 4200–5000 kJ (1000–1200 kcal) for which a more prescriptive diet is needed. LEDs can also be achieved by substituting one or two meals with one or two specially formulated very low energy food products.1
The OPTIFAST Program Active 2 and 1 Levels are recommended:
- Following the Intensive Level (VLED) where balanced meals are slowly introduced, while very low energy food products are decreased. Active levels help individuals to transition from a VLED to a more regular dietary pattern, with the aim of improving food choices and portions. During these levels, calories increase above 800kcal/day to allow for increased food intake while continuing with gradual, safe weight loss or weight maintenance.
- For individuals who have a BMI ≥ 30kg/m2 who are looking for a less intensive option than a VLED, but still receiving a reduced calorie diet. This may include those who have comorbidities which determine the Intensive Level to be unsuitable.5
- For individuals who have a BMI of 25-29 kg/m2 where a reduced calorie diet is indicated (eg. energy deficit of 600 kcal/day for weight loss),4,6 but where a VLED as a total diet replacement is not recommended.
For
more details on each phase of the OPTIFAST Program, see our advice here.
References:
1. Brown, A. and A.R. Leeds. Nutrition Bulletin, 2019. 44(1): 7-24.
2. Delbridge, E. and J. Proietto. Asia Pacific Journal Clinical Nutrition, 2006. 15 (Suppl): 49-54.
3. Markovic, T.P., at al. Obesity Research & Clinical Practice, 2022. 16(5): 353-363.
4. NHMRC. Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of Overweight and Obesity in Adults, Adolescents and Children in Australia. National Health and Medical Research Council, 2013.
5. OPTIFAST Management of Complex Cases Protocol. Nestlé Health Science, February 2020.
6. Kim, J.Y. Journal of Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome, 2021. 30:20-31
7. Food Standards Australia New Zealand https://www.legislation.gov.au/Series/F2015L00472
(accessed 20th November 2023)
