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- Established: 1980
- Founder: Dr. William Vitale
- Headquarters: Owings Mills, Maryland
- Stock Symbol: MED
- Accessibility: Online
- Diet Type: Meal Delivery, Meal Replacement, High Protein
Do You Know the Best Diet Pills of 2024?
Save time and energy by never having to grocery shop, count calories or cook your meals again. Medifast meal delivery service will send high protein meals directly to your home. By controlling portions, nutrients and calories, Medifast users can expect to lose 2-5 pounds per week for the first two weeks on the Medifast 5 & 1 Plan and 1-2 pounds per week thereafter.
The Medifast Plan menu consists of shakes, bars, soups, and other sides you can pair up to create your diet or the day. Medifast offers 70 meal choices to satisfy different palates and dietary requirements. Kosher, low glycemic, lactose-free and vegetarian diets are all supported by the Medifast plan. Medifast even has specific plans for the unique needs of women, men and diabetics.
Medifast's success has been proven in multiple clinical studies, the Medifast website offers dozens of real-life testimonials, and its products and programs have been recommended by more than 20,000 doctors since 1980.
A John Hopkins study found the Medifast plan helps dieters quickly and safely lose weight by decreasing the amount of calories they consume each day. The study also found that participants with type 2 diabetes lost 2 times the weight of individuals following the American Diabetes Association's dietary recommendations. Medifast also shows positive results in participants with other illnesses, like hypertension and high cholesterol.
All of the Medifast products are available online, but Medifast does offer some physical centers throughout the country, in Alabama, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Texas and Virginia. You can choose to go to a center, but you can complete the program online just as easily.
Medifast YouTube Channel
Medifast Recipes at iFood TV
Meal Replacement Shake Review
- Convenient, pre-packaged foods sent to your home
- Reasonably priced
- Large variety of foods so there is something for everyone
- Encourages and incorporates exercise
- Clinically proven weight loss
- Doctor recommended
- Provides detailed weight loss maintenance plan
- Plans made for diabetics and other medical situations
- Quick Start Guide available at TrustMedifast.com
- Must cut carbs
- May be tough transitioning back to regular diet
- Low-calorie diet has its critics
- Makes social situations harder to manage
A sampling of feedback and experiences shared by our community.
I am a 48 year old male with a fairly unactive lifestyle. On May 16, 2011 I started the Medifast diet following the 5/1 plan. My starting weight was 325 lbs. I am 11-1/2 weeks into the diet and have lost 58 lbs.
I come from a family of excellent cooks. Are the food offerings gourmet quality? No. However, they aren't, in general, as horrible as people say. Sure, there's a few clunkers out there but, for the most part, there are so many varieties that you should be able to find your way through. - Greg 8/5/11
I am 49 yrs old...5"5" and I started my program Aug 8th 2010 at 172 lbs I lost 45 lbs in 14 weeks! It's easy and the results are rapid. The first week I lost 8.5 lbs and the first month 17.5 lbs and then I averaged about 2.5 lbs a week. I have been reading lots' of discouraging people on here in regards to the food. Yes, there are some of the meals that you will not care for. But, you will figure out your likes and dislikes right away. Just don't eat more then one pkg out of each box for any returns.For me personally ..I love the bars and like the rice cakes, pretzels and puffs vanilla and mocha shakes yum! - Lorrie 8/4/11
I started medifast around October 2010. I went from 165lbs to about 142lbs in 3 months. I was very pleased. Unfortunately once I became comfortable being able to fit in my own clothes again I stopped the program. I did not start the maintenance program. My own fault. I ended up gaining my weight back and have started weight watchers and it's been successful so far. So depending on wether or not I would of stayed on the program I would have a better review. So it does work, and I do like it. But it was not for me and the food gets old quick! If you keep to it right, and do not cheat! I would cheat just for one day with some medifast and maybe a real meal with the family and I would be gaining a pound.. Just keep to it. - Alyssa 7/4/11
This diet works without a doubt as long as you can stick thru it. It is VERY difficult the first few days but once you make it thru week 1 the cravings pretty much go away. The food will also begin to taste better, however its best to try everything because not everyone like everything. I personally just do the shakes and brownies sometimes the scrambled eggs. They also have a great community site for advice and support and you can get great ways to doctor it up the meals too. The weight definitely comes off quickly and you see results weekly on the scale on with a measuring tape which is great motivation. Of course it has its downside like every diet the weight can come back quickly and more, but only if you don't go into the transition stage and gradual reintroduce foods back into your diet and maintain a healthy balanced diet. - Izzy 5/17/11
The Medifast diet consists of five prepared meals and one "Lean and Green Meal." (L&GM) known as the Medifast 5 & 1 plan. Your L&GM will consist of a lean protein (a seven-ounce serving of chicken, turkey or fish, or a five ounce serving of beef, pork or lamb) with a tablespoon's worth of condiment like ranch dressing, ketchup or mustard. You will also choose your side dish, which can include a salad, or raw or cooked vegetables. You will always eat at least three servings of vegetables in your L&GM.
The Medifast program encourages you to keep your metabolism high and avoid hunger by eating every three hours. It also recommends that you stay hydrated by drinking your choice of calorie-free beverage, preferably water, consuming at least 64 ounces each day. While your Lean and Green Meal and beverages are up to you, the rest of your meals will be chosen from the dozens of low-calorie, high nutritient meal-replacement items that Medifast delivers directly to you. With options like puddings, oatmeal, shakes, and scrambled eggs, it's hard to get bored.
At the beginning of the program, you will remove high carbohydrate vegetables from your diet like corn and carrots, to jump start your weight loss. You'll slowly introduce these items back into your diet over time and they can be a part of your diet in the maintenance phase, if you wish.
While on the Medifast program you don’t have to worry about counting anything; calories, grams of fat and carbs are all controlled and you can expect to lose between two and five pound per week. The Medifast meals are made with 24 different vitamins and minerals to keep you full and satisfy your nutritional needs.
A typical day of eating on the Medifast program looks like:
- Breakfast – Spiced Pancakes with Sugar-Free Syrup
- Snack – Chocolate Crunch Bar
- Lunch – Chicken & Wild Rice Soup
- Snack – Cinnamon Pretzel Sticks
- Dinner – Baked Tilapia Fillet; Sautéed Sugar Snap Peas with Mushrooms, Carrots
- Dessert – Coffee Soft Serve
The Medifast website offers an exercise guideline document, but there is specific workout program. Medifast recommends getting daily exercise, but your intensity, mode and duration are left completely up to you. They suggest running, jogging, swimming, dancing or walking, but with such a low calorie, structured program, getting your daily 30 minutes reccommended for health should be enough for you to successfully drop weight.
Medifast recommends waiting two to three weeks before introducing exercise if you do not already exercise regularly. You should also consult your physician if new to exercise. Start slow, and gradually increase you time and intensity as you feel things become easier. If you have been exercising consistently prior to starting Medifast, it is recommended that you reduce your intensity and duration of exercise for the first couple of weeks so your body can adjust to your lower calorie levels, and do no more than 45 minutes of vigorous exercise each day during this time period.
Medifast suggests, as do we, that you find something that you enjoy for your workouts so you are more likely to stick to them. The gym isn't your only option. You can take up jogging outside, dance classes, swimming, or biking to get in some exercise while finding a new activity you enjoy.
Common questions asked about the Medifast program by our community. Click each to see the full answer.
Does anyone experience an early plateau on Medifast? - NB 6/21/11
Is there any medical supervision on Medifast? - KJ 6/10/11
What is the cost of 3 months on Medifast? - Jeannie 6/8/11
Will my body adjust to hunger at the beginning of the diet? - Lisa 3/7/11
Ask or answer Medifast Questions now.
For more than 20 years, Medifast has been the answer for many people's weight loss struggles.. It’s also helped people with pre-existing health conditions, like diabetes and hypertension, lose weight safely. The taste and quality of the meals have gotten mostly positive feedback, so if you want to take out all of the guess work, Medifast may be the diet for you. You'll learn how to eat proper portions with balanced nutrition, while eating consistently throughout the day. Most programs and diets cannot boast the doctor recommendations, positive clinical findings and glowing testimonials that Medifast can. It's worth a look if you have weight to lose and are looking for a convenient, all in one approach to eating.
Other Slideshows About Medifast
7 Weight Loss Plans Fit for Fall
The Cost of Losing 20 Pounds
#29 Fastest Growing Company 2010 at CNN
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Medifast on Twitter
Medifast on Facebook
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by Brandi Koskie
User Feedback
(Page 18 of 22, 438 total comments)marjorie
+I tried this plan after a friend lost 25 lbs this summer! I too had about 25 to lose and it sounded like something I could do. I have lost 20 lbs and have 5 to go in just 11 weeks. My husband started at the same time and has lost 47 lbs. It works, it is easy and convenient, and I no longer crave fast food and high fat comfort foods. I haven't felt this good in years. I love and support this program so much that I became a health coach for TSFL. This program offers the popular medifast meals plus a free health coach to help you along the way. This is really important for success. I used my health coach a lot in the early weeks, and I still talk to her everyday. Email me for more details...
posted Nov 7th, 2009 4:44 pmDee
-This diet is filling someone's pockets with gold. They first hook on the diet plan. Then you get the TSFL plan. Can't believe people don't research this. It is a high protein diet that comes in a powder... Just stick with leans meats, green vegetables, and exercise.
posted Nov 6th, 2009 12:59 amAnd for the ones who say that the food bill has went down....Baloney...
They plant that seed in your head. I have personally witnessed a couple of the TSFL people chase down overweight people telling they can fix their life.
I was personally over weight, border line diabetic, and high blood pressure. I done my research, cut out the cola's and the sugar, white bread and few other things. Got a treadmill started slowly at 15 minutes at first now I do at least and hour a day. Lost 95 pounds 2 years ago and maintaining. I can go to a resturant with friends and eat.
So for those of you who just want to make your coaches and the company pockets fatter thats your choice.
Lo
Medifast is great! Keeps you going all day!
posted Nov 4th, 2009 3:30 pmI just wonder how "Anne" can blame losing cuticles and nails from this diet?
Jan Simmons
+Medifast is by far the best weight loss program I�??ve ever tried! I love it, and although I�??ve bumped myself out of ketosis several time due to a birthday party, family reunion, and a concert, I�??ve still lost 25 lbs. and 2 pant sizes, in less than 2 months! I can�??t wait to lose the other 35 lbs. that I have to lose! And, because of all of the nutrients I�??m getting, my nails are growing like crazy! It takes dedication, but it�??s so worth it. It has changed the way I look at food! And, the people that say you�??ll gain all the weight back, obviously missed the whole point of this plan. You can�??t go back to eating the way you did before Medifast, and you have to exercise! It�??s a lifestyle change!! If you�??re desperate, try it, and remember that it takes about 3-5 days to enter ketosis, but once you�??re there, you ARE NOT HUNGRY!!! Which, for me, is a wonderful thing:) It was so much help to have my health coach (miofit.com) just hold my hand thru the whole process. Almost there!!!
posted Nov 2nd, 2009 5:00 pmAlex
+I love Medifast! It is the only diet I have had success on. It is easy to follow and the food tastes good. My health coach has been so helpful and has been part of my success.
posted Oct 19th, 2009 4:17 pmashley
+Medifast has been the best diet and weight loss system I've used. It's easy to use, convenient, and been very effective for me. It has become a way of life now. I do find it expensive, but you can always find a good coupon to help you save. Try and you should find a good deal.
posted Jul 31st, 2009 5:35 pmBMore
+85 lbs since April 16, 2009...and for those of you who gained your weight back STOP BLAMING MEDIFAST...YOU HAVE NO SELF CONTROL!!! Quit blaming the program because you couldn't keep from shoveling your fat mouth full of Ho Ho's!
posted Jul 28th, 2009 9:03 amHelen G
+I am a Take Shape for Life Health Coach. I have lost 62 pounds on TSFL using the medifast products. I am also an RN and coach others on this program. It is safe, balanced and very easy to follow. The results are outstanding and if combined with health coaching clients learn to make long-term, permanent life style changes. I have never felt better and the weight is coming off at a nice rate of 2-3 pounds a week for me. The people on this blog who have had negative results I just bet did not get a coach and learn how to integrate the foods into their diet. It is not expensive...on average of $11 a day...my grocery bill went down because I quit eating out! You will need to do some moderate exercise....but be clear. This is just the first step to optimum health...you can't be healthy and also be overweight. It may not be the program for everyone...if you still need excuses or need to use food to emotionally satisfy you then this is not for you. If on the other hand youa re ready to get healthy....then it is perfect. It will both stabalize your bloodsugar and get you headed on the right track. I dropped 50 points in my cholesterol the first 8 weeks I was on the program. But you need a coach...medifast without a coach is not the best solution. Helen G. RN, MS
posted Jul 14th, 2009 8:17 amAnne
-I had the worse side effect I have ever had to anything in my life. I lost my cuticles and thus am loosing my finger nails. This was painful, the tips of my fingers cracked and bled as I typed. I had as many as 7 bandaids on my finger tips at one time. I quit using it in February 2009 and my nails are still recovering with the assistance of two doctors.
posted Jun 1st, 2009 7:50 pmIn my research I can not find where they tell you of any side effects. I have talked to women that have lost their hair, hot burning feeling in palms of their hands and soles of their feet, nail problems, cracking finger tips, etc.
Kate
-I agree with the folks who have tried and failed. YES you do lose weight, and YES if you can stick with it, it's simple and easy. But if you are like me, and you lose 80+ pounds, then try to live a normal life... You WILL gain all the weight back, and then some. Your metabolism is changed once you do this diet. And I even went back a year later and did it again, only to lose 20 pounds, then gain 35 back. And the food eventually didn't agree with my digestive system; Even altered my hormones. Be sure you want to commit to this before you join. If you aren't 100%, it won't work for you in the long run. It feels great to lose so much weight so fast, but it will all come flying back if you don't stick to a very strict diet of "normal" foods. Best of luck.
posted May 16th, 2009 12:59 pmJackwelch
Thanks for the info dominiquej. i think I am going to try it out.. wish me luck!!
posted May 8th, 2009 10:58 amdominiquej
The food is new and improved. You almost forget you are on a weightloss program. The products look like regular food products so you can take them to work with no questions asked. You can have a bar , eggs, or oatmeal for breakfast , a soup for lunch or split your lean & green. Good luck all.
posted May 4th, 2009 8:10 pmJackwelch
Wonder what the food is like? It is prob way cheaper than a day of meals in NYC.
posted May 1st, 2009 7:48 amCamille
+I've been on Medifast for a month, and have dropped about 20 lbs. I would HIGHLY recommend this to anyone who has ever had issues sticking with things like Weight Watchers.
posted Apr 16th, 2009 3:59 pmI have a blog that chronicles my Weight Loss Journey on Medifast at .
It features before/after photos of my progress, stats, and my very honest opinion of everyday life on Medifast.
I also have coupons for Medifast on there. They help a bit if price is an issue.
Good luck on your journey!
Sheryl
+I started MF last year and lost up to 48 lbs. I enjoyed the ease of the meals. I didn't have to think. I stopped because of the recent economy and fear of losing my job. But I am going to start again. I felt so, so much better. BP, aches, pains and I learned to exersice. I never thought that I would every lose anything. This was the one and only diet that I have been successful on. I need it!
posted Apr 2nd, 2009 9:45 pmKarisa
If anyone ever wants to talk one on one with a real reson that is doing this diet, feel free to email me!!
posted Mar 31st, 2009 4:53 pmJenny
+Medifast is simple to follow and you see results very quickly. After you get past the first few days, you will not be hungry. I definately recommend Medifast!
posted Mar 28th, 2009 9:25 pmKarisa
+I love this diet! It has really taught me how to eat healthy. I have lost 29lbs after 2 months.
posted Mar 2nd, 2009 3:16 pmI love how I can just grab and go. I don't have to count and plan my meals weeks at a time... Everything is convenient!! I would recommend it to anyone... AND an added note... if you don't want to gain the weight back all you do is fallow the transition and maintenance plan and eat healthier!!! You can do it and it sooo worth it!!!
Krissy
+I am a health coach and what I do is help others by being there for support, giving tips, and tricks and recepies. They have what is called a 5 & 1 program
posted Feb 18th, 2009 9:22 pmyou eat six small meals a day...
5 meals are foods provided by medifast
1 meal is a lean meat and 3servings of veggies
I absolutely love it and it costs about $10 a day. Everything is portioned for you all the nutrients and vitamins are in the foods so there is no need to take and pills with the diet. It took a couple days of getting used to but I love it and I am down 23lbs.. and I barely even exercise.. hmmm speaking of which I should probably do that... But they stress not to work out more than 45 min a day. like I said I barely workout... my job is somewhat physical.
A lot of the food is soy based so if you never had soy before that takes some getting used to. Some people love soy, others hate soy. I like certain food while hating others...
They is a large variety of food. but the basics are
Soups, Shakes, Pudding, Crunch Bars, Oatmeal, Fruit drinks, and eggs. There is a large variety of flavors and then of course you also get to eat lean meat and veggies too.
this is just a basic rundown.
Tea' Love
+This program is the only one I've tried that I can actually make a lifestyle. It's simple to follow and I don't have to fight hunger. I have so much energy and I've already lost 43 pounds. I love it!
posted Feb 10th, 2009 8:49 pm