Some weight loss programs suggest making small changes that add up over time, while others propose more restrictive, but short-term dietary changes that give patients a jump start on their weight loss. If making small changes hasn’t worked for you, then perhaps OPTIFAST® will. OPTIFAST ® is a program offered by some weight loss doctors, including Dr. Briones, who serves Mt. Kisco and the surrounding Westchester County. Because OPTIFAST® requires significant, albeit short-term changes, it also requires a longer preparation period than most diets.

Schedule a health evaluation.

OPTIFAST® is a medically supervised weight loss program. It isn’t possible to purchase the meal replacement products at a store. Your doctor must determine that OPTIFAST® is right for you before you can get started. First, you’ll have a thorough health evaluation. Your doctor will check your body mass index (BMI), health history, metabolism, and heart health. Based on the results, your doctor will determine how many OPTIFAST® products you should consume each day you’re on the diet.

Clear out your kitchen.

Since OPTIFAST® requires you to only consume a certain number of meal replacement products each day, you might find it helpful to clear out your kitchen before your first day on the program. It’ll be easier to avoid temptation if the only edibles in your home are OPTIFAST® products.

Adjust your schedule.

It won’t be possible to join friends for brunch or have a romantic dinner at a restaurant with your significant other. Check your calendar for the coming weeks, and reschedule any outings as needed. Some dieters decide to start OPTIFAST® during a time of the year when they’re typically under less stress, such as after the end of year holidays.

Understand what to expect on OPTIFAST®.

Your weight loss doctor will thoroughly educate you about the OPTIFAST® diet. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask. For most patients, OPTIFAST® lasts 26 weeks. Individual results vary, but most people who stick with the program can expect to lose an average of 50 pounds. Your doctor will closely monitor your health the entire time. This program consists of three phases. On day one, you’ll start with the Active Weight Loss Phase. This is when you’ll consume OPTIFAST® products for all your meals. Then, you’ll enter the Transition Program, during which you’ll gradually transition to preparing approved recipes . The third phase is the Long-Term Weight Management Phase.