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Medifast
QUICK FACTS
Start the Diet Now Advertisement
BACKGROUND
MEDIFAST VIDEOS
PRO
CON
USER REVIEWS
DIET and NUTRITION
EXERCISE
MEDIFAST FAQ
CONCLUSION
MEDIFAST SLIDESHOWS
MEDIFAST RESOURCES
Medifast Contact Information
Common Misspellings
Author
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Diets
Medifast
Medifast Diet Review (UPDATED 2024): Does it Really Work?
One of the leading meal delivery and meal replacement diets serving men and women since 1980.
Start the Medifast Diet with 40% OFFWHAT IS IT?
Medifast Diet is a weight loss plan offering over 70 prepackaged foods, and suggestions for healthy meals. The plan offers 6 meals a day, with an eating schedule that allows meals every 3 to 4 hours.
The diet plan is also known as the Medifast Achieve plan, and it’s said to be the company’s easiest and most convenient weight loss strategy. It’s made to help promote weight loss while still preserving lean muscle mass. Even after one finishes losing weight, the diet plan is meant to help give people lifelong support for overall health and weight maintenance. Our experts conducted many reviews and found that this was the most effective diet plan. It offers an easy to follow and supportive system to help provide functional weight loss results. For a discount on the Medifast Diet plan click on this link.
MEDIFAST DIET INGREDIENTS AND SIDE EFFECTS
Here are some notable ingredients added to Medifast’s prepackaged foods:
|
Whey Protein Isolate |
Organic Cracked Wheat |
Milk Protein Concentrate |
Dehydrated Carrots |
Canola Oil |
|
Potassium Chloride |
Ascorbic Acid |
Riboflavin |
Resistant Corn Starch |
Calcium Caseinate |
|
Oat Fiber |
Vitamin K1 |
Whey Protein Concentrate |
Chicory Root Extract (Inulin) |
Peanut Flour |
Whey Protein Isolate: A by product extracted whenever cheese is made, this highly bioavailable form of protein is known for its ability to suppress appetite for hours. It’s also rich in amino acids and it is composed of a minimum of 90% protein by weight.
Organic Cracked Wheat: Ground up wheat kernels which are high in fiber and trace minerals. This is organic and therefore is free of any GMO’s or harsh processing which can have remains of dangerous pesticides.
Potassium Chloride: This provides the mineral potassium which is useful for regulating the proper functioning of nerves, muscles, and other vital organs.
Chicory Root Extract (Inulin): Woody plant that has trace vitamins and minerals and which can be used to aid digestion. This has been shown to be likely safe when used in allowable amounts. Inulin is a starchy substance that can be found naturally in chicory. It is beneficial for supporting healthy gut bacteria, as it is not digestible and can instead feed microflora.
Web MD has this to say about the Medifast Diet:
“enriched with nutrients to help offset any deficiency that may occur”
They also add that the meal replacement aspect can be supportive and:
“help keep the weight off”
Their review concludes with the following positive remarks about effective for both weight and health:
“Medifast can deliver results”
The Achieve plan offers:
- 4 Medifast meals: 70 different food options are offered such as sweets, soups, pastas, bars and shakes.
- 2 lean and green meals: This is separate from the prepackaged meals. A person chooses 3 servings of vegetables. 2 servings of healthy fats and 5 to 7 ounces of lean protein from the menu offered.
- 1 Healthy snack: This can be a serving of fruit or yogurt, a baked potato, whole wheat pasta, or several other offered foods. Also separate from the prepackaged foods.
Click the link here to get a special discounted rate on Medifast.
EDITOR’S TIP: Click here to sign up with Medifast
Medifast diet quality of ingredients
Their official website makes it really easy to verify what is added as they specific each ingredient added to their foods. They make sure to list any potential allergens, and they also provide the serving size, full price, and a nutrition facts list.
Judging the nutrition alone reveals that they ensure many vitamins and minerals are added to their foods. This ensures that one will be able to give the body what it needs to thrive and be healthy.
They also often use ingredients that are natural and wholesome. These additives are effective at providing a satisfying meal without packing on too many calories.
Also provided are gluten free and vegetarian options. In examining many of their foods it’s clear to see they have dedicated themselves to provide healthy and effective solutions for weight loss.
Read about what the Medifast diet can do for you by visiting their official website.
THE PRICE AND QUALITY OF MEDIFAST DIET
Pricing can vary depending on the specific plan one chooses.
For example their Flex plan is meant to deliver steady and gradual weight loss and it provides 4 Medifast meals alongside 2 lean and green meals and a healthy snack.
Their Go! Plan offers 5 Medifast meals and 1 lean and green meal. These meals are one’s users can cook at home, as long as one makes sure to pick an option offered by the company.
You can even customize it further by reaching the company as they offer plans for those with gluten or soy intolerance, nursing, vegetarian or those who are of an older age. Support is also provided for diabetics who need to regulate their food choices closer.
Users often said they paid a fair price on these plans and the company does offer free shipping for certain orders. Overall when you look at the value given by the quality of meals, it certainly does make it a well-priced and affordable solution for weight loss.
BUSINESS OF MEDIFAST DIET
Medifast, Inc. is the name of the group; their contact information is listed as:
Phone Number: (800) 209-0878
Email: A contact sheet is provided for direct messages.
They also list their official hours of operation so people know when is the best time to contact them.
On Consumer Affairs.com the company has been well regarded with 4 and a half stars out of 5. It’s shown how they have been recommended by more than 20,000 doctors, and that it has already helped thousands lose weight successfully.
People who had questions and concerns were immediate responded to by a representative of the company on this website. People often said they trusted the company and felt that they were reputable. Customers said the following:
“customer service is great”
“quick and they answer all my questions quickly. Feel like I’m part of a larger family”
“You get a great deal on quality without breaking the bank”
“love the fact I can customize it as I like and get exactly what I enjoy eating”
EDITOR’S TIP: Click here to sign up with Medifast
CUSTOMER OPINIONS OF MEDIFAST DIET
Here are some customer quotes about the Medifast Diet:
“lost around 25 pounds thus far since starting”
“wasn’t able to lose weight no matter what I tried. Find that this is the only thing that works for me”
“I’d recommend Medifast to other people who are struggling to keep the weight off. It makes it so much easier to decide what to eat”
Many said that they were not just able to lose weight, but to also keep it off long-term. There was a lot of genuine praise from people who also enjoyed the taste of the food, and who also added it was helpful for picky eaters who only liked certain foods, and who were able to customize it to fit their taste buds desires.
Overall many had a resounding benefit form the Medifast diet, and they also praised its functionality to help provide support whenever people needed it. Taste wise people said it was satisfying, and that it helped suppress their appetite. As far as the actual service and overall ability to interact with someone at the company to gain more insights, there was also praise over the helpfulness of the support staff.
CONCLUSION - DOES MEDIFAST DIET WORK?
The Medifast Diet consists of pre-packaged low calorie foods, as well as diet advice and suggestions for grocery foods. This is comprehensive, and many users have said the quality of foods is high. Customers noted they were able to sustain their weight loss results, and that the foods and advice offered were easy to use and helpful. This is the reason why we have rated the Medifast Diet as the best weight loss plan available.
The makers of Medifast have provided full support as they offer detailed advice and representatives that users said were helpful, and made them feel welcome and unintimidated to learn about real functional weight loss results. This is why they were so highly rated on Consumer Affairs, and Web MD has also said it is a nutrient rich diet plan which can help with supporting weight loss.
Since you can customize it to meet your taste and dietary preferences, it’s also made to be functional by all users. In this link you can get a special discounted price off of the Medifast Diet; click this link to get a hold of this special rate
QUICK FACTS
Start the Diet Now Advertisement
- 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?
BACKGROUND
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 VIDEOS
PRO
- 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
CON
- Must cut carbs
- May be tough transitioning back to regular diet
- Low-calorie diet has its critics
- Makes social situations harder to manage
USER REVIEWS
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
DIET and NUTRITION
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
EXERCISE
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.
MEDIFAST FAQ
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.
CONCLUSION
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.
MEDIFAST SLIDESHOWS
Other Slideshows About Medifast
7 Weight Loss Plans Fit for Fall
MEDIFAST RESOURCES
#29 Fastest Growing Company 2010 at CNN
Medifast Testimonial on Good Morning America
The Cost of Diet Plans on Today Show
Medifast Contact Information
- Online Program: Medifast1.com
Email: Submit form online
Common Misspellings
Medi Fast, Media Fast, Medfast, Mediafast, Medifast.com, TrustMedifast.com, medi fast diet, medi fast plan, medifast official website, medifast plan, medifast product, medi-fast-diet, meti-fast, metifast, meda fast, medfast, med fast, mediast
Author
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User Feedback
(Page 20 of 22, 438 total comments)Sue56
+I have been on Medifast for two weeks now and already lost 7 lbs and feel great. The routine of meals is perfect and just what I needed. I just need to get out and exercise more now (ugh).
posted Oct 12th, 2008 8:20 amrachel
+I used medifast and lost 12 pounds in a few weeks. Having routine and convenience are half the battle.
posted Oct 5th, 2008 8:18 pmMarti
+My doctor prescribed this prior to my gastric bypass last year. I couldn't imagine doing that long term... but definitely helped before/after.
posted Oct 4th, 2008 11:45 pmEB
i am a female that weighs 178 and i am 5'5. i want to get down to 145. is medifast right for me. i am in the military and i need to loose at leat 30 pounds.everytime i diet i can never seem to get past 171 pounds.
posted Sep 25th, 2008 9:06 amDeester
Just completed 5 weeks, down 18 lbs., 40 more to go. I haven't felt this good in years. I'm in my early 50s, menopausal (natural roadblock for women losing weight), and the weight is just melting off of me. I've tried almost every other diet there is, with phentermine 12 yrs ago being the only thing that gave me similar results (but I hated the side effects and gained back all +). The benefit of losing weight and feeling great outweighs my desire for "bad foods". I can see MF being a part of my "lifestyle" to never regain any of this weight, ever! Thank you Medifast!
posted Sep 2nd, 2008 10:02 pmDeester
Just completed 5 weeks, down 18 lbs., 40 more to go. I haven't felt this good in years. I'm in my early 50s, menopausal (natural roadblock for women losing weight), and the weight is just melting off of me. I've tried almost every other diet there is, with phentermine 12 yrs ago being the only thing that gave me similar results (but I hated the side effects and gained back all +). The benefit of losing weight and feeling great outweighs my desire for "bad foods". I can see MF being a part of my "lifestyle" to never regain any of this weight, ever! Thank you Medifast!
posted Sep 2nd, 2008 10:02 pmKT Howard
Has anyone managed transitioning off of this diet yet? Sounds like most of the people are just starting. What happens when you start eating "real" food again?
posted Aug 10th, 2008 8:07 pmTS
I lost 35 pounds on MF 2 years ago. I lost 3 lbs a week like clock work. It has been 2 years & I need to loose 15 again, but at least I know how. The food is not that great, but it is easy to follow and I kept the packets in my purse, desk and in the car so I won't have to cheat. I am starting back on the plan on monday. I should be able to loose my weight in 5 weeks... But my problem has been getting my mind in gear to start and stay on it because I know it is important to follow the diet strickly. It is hard in social situations to skip a yummy meal and eat something out of a little packet. Meals are very social. I hate all of the questions from others.
posted Aug 4th, 2008 9:51 amSF
I did this diet many years ago and I'm back on it. As others have said, the first 3 days are hard but it is very easy after that. When I did Medifast the first time it was doctor supervised and that's the only way you could get it. There was no "lean and green" meal involved then. I lost weight painlessly and very quickly. Unfortunately (15 years later) I've gain most of the weight back. I think I lost about 45 lbs at the time. Medifast has all the vitamins and protein you need to stay healthy and it really controls your hunger. Its a great program if you stick to it. You will definitely lose. I don't like the soups but the shakes are great.
posted Jul 29th, 2008 10:34 pmChuck T
Wish I had never started this plan. Chose because I thought it was doctor supervised. After 1 month still waiting for blood work to return. In the meantime, the food is terrible, prisoners of war would receive better. Even my dog won't touch it. Losing weight, but only because I have a hugh bill to pay of nearly $1000 to enter program and only 1 month's worth of food. Consumer beware.
posted Jul 28th, 2008 9:11 amMiss B
Medifast is very expensive. I would not recommend trying this diet..Any diet where you lose more than 2 pounds a week is dangerous for your body.
posted Jul 17th, 2008 10:45 pmDarren Jacobs
Hi Joy, First of all you should request a health coach to encourage and guide you at no additional cost (comes free with Medifast directed through the bionetwork of Take Shape for Life health coaches). I've lost 47 lbs on Medifast and I'm now a health coach myself. Couple suggestions to ensure your success: If you're already exercising I would keep your current schedule; if not, wait 2-3 weeks as you begin the 5 & 1 (5 Medifast meal replacements + 1 ?Lean & Green?) and then start with light exercise. Your weight loss will be anywhere from 2-5 lbs per week, so it is very possible to lose 20 lbs in a month! But the real test is whether the program affords you the ability to keep your weight off once you take the time & effort to lose your weight. And this is where Take Shape shines above all other programs as it includes (and emphasizes) a transition and maintenance component. I?m excited for you! I?ve had the opportunity to help many people finally gain back their health while losing their weight. Make sure to request a health coach as soon as possible?and simply follow the program for amazing results.
posted Jul 9th, 2008 2:17 pmJoy
Hello, I had just ordered Medifast this morning and have yet to receive it sometime next week. I'm extremely stoked to get started considering of the many positive testimonials I've heard from just about everyone! I'm hoping someone can help me answer my question. I know that Medifast is ideal for those who wants to lose 50+pounds however, I'm 5'0ft tall and weighs 128 lbs. For someone my height, that is overweight and my ideal goal is to lose at least 15-20lbs (back to the way i was before.) According to everyone's experience, do you think I'll be able to achieve that weight loss with the Medifast 4-wk program along with exercise? I'd love to hear from those who had been in the same situation and have tried MF. Thanks!
posted Jul 9th, 2008 10:05 amGayLynn
Yo yo dieting with counting points, carbs and calories left me returning to the same 213 on the scale. With the aid of a health coach and Medifast I'm currently at 164 and dropping. Visit my sight to see how my husband and I can encourage you through the "dark hours" of weight loss.
posted Jul 7th, 2008 7:08 pmTisha
Medifast is an effective diet for the motivated. I ordered the variety 4 week pack the first month and decided I didnt like any of the soups, certain flavor shakes, nor any of the chocolate bars. I love the puddings, oatmeal and caramel nut bars, eggs (to make omelettes), and certain drinks. I can customize to order only the things that I enjoy So far I have lost 40lbs in 7 weeks and have 5 weeks to go. I plan to get off at least another 20-25 lbs. I feel better able to control my eating and plan to stick to low to moderate carbs once I am off the plan. I feel great!
posted Jul 7th, 2008 8:27 amJulia Havey
I lost 130 pounds, kept 110 of it off for 12 years. Battled to get the 20 back off and Medifast helped me do it. I am an author, Awaken the Diet Within, The Vice Busting Diet (that one got endorsed by Dr. Mehmet Oz and Dr. David Katz!!) and I promote Medifast to my readers for quick results, high protein and a great maintainence tool! learn about me, or my Medifast site, if you order Medifast there, I will be your personal health coach for free! My readers pay $250 per month for private coaching sessions w/ me, as a Medifast customer, you get ME for free! Julia Havey!
posted Jul 2nd, 2008 2:21 pmAnonymous
I've tried Medifast and it works great. I lost 22 lbs in 6 weeks last year, but gained it all back to some poor choices. I'm starting over again and can't wait to see the pounds fall off again!! The food really isn't terrible, it just takes some time to adjust and figure out what you like.
posted Jul 1st, 2008 10:49 pmyaya
I'm female at 175/5'9 and would like to get back to 140 (pre-hubby and baby). I'm 28, and healthy...just want to cut the chub. Any idea how long it might take me or if this is a good idea for me?
posted Jun 12th, 2008 9:25 ammilldog435
I started 9 weeks ago and am down 55lbs!!!! This diet does work you just have to stay on plan, drink lots of water, and exercise.
posted Jun 5th, 2008 1:19 pmlezlie
starting medifast because i need to lose 20 lbs. and i have serious knee issues that required surgery and more to follow. Anyone out there in a similar fix? I did JC for 10 years on and off and lost 40 lbs. with 6 mile runs and 2 hour workouts everyday. When my knee went I blew up.
posted May 27th, 2008 1:27 pm