Everyone’s weight loss journey looks very different; everyone has different goals, schedules and priorities. Even so, when you’re considering embarking on a new weight loss plan, it can be incredibly helpful to know how other people with busy lives got on while following the plan.
It’s recommended to follow the OPTIFAST Six Week Plan, but Helen Robinson chose to follow the plan for 12 weeks with support from healthcare professionals. She’s shared her experiences with us to inspire you as you take the first steps towards your goals.
How Did You Find Starting the OPTIFAST Plan?
Helen: The concept of the OPTIFAST programme is very simple, so easy to follow and understand.
Removing the need to make any decisions about food was a massive help to me, as part of my problem was that I didn’t make good choices about what I ate. Telling myself that I just couldn’t have *anything*, seemed to be something I responded to very well.
The weekly dietitian support I received was excellent and also helped me to maintain my focus; I didn’t want to let myself down, but I also didn’t want to have to record a poor week! Being able to ask questions and receive reassurance throughout the plan was also a big help.
I was amazed that once I was through the first few days, my energy levels were unaffected. I’d been concerned that consuming so few calories would lead to a lack of energy, but the opposite was true.
Some of the early days adjusting to the new plan were hard, but I had a great support network around me (I told all my friends and colleagues what I was doing) – and I needed it at times. It definitely got easier as the programme progressed.
I also found that seeing my week one weight loss was a huge boost and real motivation to keep going.
What Are Your Favourite OPTIFAST Meal Replacement Products?
Helen: I really enjoyed the OPTIFAST Shakes – they tasted good, but not too sweet and were very easy to prepare. They were also filling enough – just stick with them for the first few days.
