Hello everyone

Has anyone tried using the Medifast or Optifast meal replacement programs with their band? If so, what was your experience?

I asked this question about a month ago and didn't receive many replies... I was preband then -- but now that I am banded, I can shed some light.

I chose to do Medifast with my band... at least for the first 2 months. I chose this route becacuse I would get free coaching on the body image issues that I have struggled with and it would eliminate most of the stress about chosing proper foods to maintain nutrition.

I started when I hit the full liquids stage... with shakes, the hot cocoa, and the Soups that had been slightly thinned and then blended. I'm having a hard time getting in a lean and green meal -- so I add a little lowfat cheese or a small piece of chicken to my soups before blending (and blending and blending).

When I move to mushies, I'll add pudding, scrambled eggs, and oatmeal... and then start trying to get in a lean and green every day.

I chose Medifast because I knew that if I was left on my own, I wouldnt be getting full and complete nutrition when I was on the full liquids or mushie stages. I know my body needs complete nutrition to heal.

I don't plan on losing all my weight with Medifast ... I started it for a specific time frame. I figure that there is enough variety that when I can start eating food again, I can still learn bandster rules and not get stuck in "soft food" syndrome.

Example:

First thing in the morning: I hear a lot of people say their band is tight and needs something warm to losen up. I'll have a Medifast hot drink (hot cocoa, chai, cappicuno).

Next Meal: I'll prepare my Breakfast... probably a Medifast Oatmeal and part of my lean and green meal (maybe some egg whites and a little salsa).

Next Meal: I'll have a midmorning snack of a Medifast bar.

Next Meal: I'll do my lunch -- my surgeon says to eat the biggest meal during mid-day -- so I'll do my lean and green here (or at least most of it -- the lean and green portion is huge).

Next Meal: I'll have an afternoon snack -- likely a Medifast shake or a pudding.

Next Meal: I'll do a Medifast Soup or stew and any remaining portion of my lean and green.

So that's what I've worked through in my head so far. Like I said, I'm on full liquids right now, so it makes sense that if I am going to be doing liquids that I should get the best nutrition possible.

Good luck.

I did Optifast as my two-week presurgical diet. I hated the taste. I lost about 15 pounds over those two weeks, but i'd never do Optifast ever again.

Hi... I went on Optifast for 4 weeks pre-op, enjoyed it - picked the ones that I particularly liked. In the liquids stage I had Optifastfor Lunch and added an egg to it for extra protein and found that OK... I will always have it in the cupboard for a quick meal, and it is handy at work as I travel long distances and it is easier for me. I am going to have my first fill next week, and will definitely be back on the optifast for a day or so after that if necessary.. The Chicken soup was a godsend at the end of the day when I was in the liquid stage ( and it is just coming out of winter here) As I said, I will keep some in the cupboard and I personally find it quite refreshing and certainly do not feel hungry after it.... hope that helps... I really think if you enjoy it and find it helps then go for it... Cheers for Now, Trish..

I am 14 months out and pretty much at a standstill. We are going on a cruise next month and before the cruise, will do 4 weeks of New Lifestyle diet to kick start my loss again.

I will let you know how tha tgoes. New LIfestyle is the whey Protein alternative to Medifast

I do Medifast pretty consistently. I really like it and it is the best way for me to lose weight and maintain my weight loss.

I can erase my sugar cravings quickly with a couple of Medifast shakes. And the bars really help me to not overeat.

I have 2 shakes in the AM and I am good to go until the afternoon. I now drink 2 shakes at once because 1 shake is too low in calories.

I allow myself any Medifast bars I want. I find because they are so low in carbs that i hardly ever have more than 2 in a day. They do not stir up my sugar cravings.

I can lose consistently with Medifast and expect to continue to drink shakes even when I reach goal. The sugar thing is a horrible habit I have and Medifast is the only thing I have found that tames it quickly and easily. I eat regular food too but rely on Medifast for a lot of my Protein.

High Protein Shakes really help the pain with my arthritis and fibromyagia too. Why?? I have no idea.

Sadie