One way to start your weight loss program is being on the Intermittent Fasting level for 3 months, where you generally consume around 800 calories on 2 non-consecutive days of the week, and eat a regular diet on the other 5 days*. By reducing your calorie intake on 2 days, your overall calorie intake for the week is reduced.
OPTIFAST VLCD products can be used on the 800 calorie days to provide nutritionally complete meal options.
- Achieve a significant energy deficit which helps to promote weight loss
- Stay on this phase for around 3 months. Move into maintenance level after, depending on your weight loss goal.
- Consume Optifast products for 2 days / week
The 5:2 Diet – Suggested Meal Plan |
||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 | Day 6 | Day 7 |
| Eat Normally |
Optifast VLCD**  |
Eat Normally |
Optifast VLCD** |
Eat Normally |
Eat Normally |
Eat Normally |
*Calories consumed on a normal day for your regular diet is dependent on your weight loss goals.
**Consuming 3 x OPTIFAST VLCD shakes on fasting days will provide approximately 603 calories and 60g protein
Intermittent Fasting - FAQs
Why am I only consuming 800 kcal a day on fasting days?
In order to lose weight, we need to take in less energy in the form of calories than we burn off. By taking in around 800 calories each day, most people will achieve a significant energy deficit which helps to promote weight loss. The OPTIFAST diet replacement approach provides fewer calories whilst still providing all the micronutrients you need than some other approaches to weight loss, and is usually followed for a shorter period of time.
Are there any known side-effects?
During the programme, the number of calories you take in reduces significantly compared to your usual diet. For this reason, it can be normal to experience some tiredness, headaches, nausea, or light-headedness. This tends to settle down as your body adjusts to the programme. However, if you experience severe or persistent symptoms, always make sure you seek medical advice.
How long can I stay on the intermittent programme?
We recommend you spend around 3 months on this plan. After this time has passed you can continue with the Maintenance plan.
How much weight should I expect to lose on the intermittent plan?
Everyone is different when it comes to weight loss. How much and how quickly you lose weight depends on many things, including how much you weigh, how active you are, and how many calories you are taking in each day. On our intermittent fasting diet plan, weight loss is expected to be more gradual than with our continuous six week plan because overall you will be taking in more calories each week. Your rate of weight loss should increase the more days you follow intermittent fasting diet plan.
I am experiencing bloating/increased flatulence since starting Optifast. Is that normal?
If your new diet contains a very different amount of fibre compared to what you are used to, it is possible to experience some digestive changes such as a change in bowel habit, bloating, or flatulence. As you adjust to your new plan this should settle down. If you experience persistent, severe or worrying symptoms, we advise you to seek advice from your GP.
Should I take a vitamin and mineral supplement in conjunction with Optifast?
When using the intermittent fasting plan Optifast provides all the nutrition you require, and there should be no need to take additional supplements. If you have a diagnosed deficiency or take prescribed vitamin or mineral supplements, we recommend you speak to your GP to decide if you need to continue these.
How many calories am I getting on fasting days?
Optifast days on the intermittent programme will provide you with approximately 800 calories each day. This low calorie intake is to support you to lose weight. By taking three products from the Optifast® range each day, you will also receive all the vitamins and minerals you require.
Will I be getting enough protein on fasting days?
Optifast® products are high in protein. On the fasting days, your protein intake will be around 60g of protein per day, depending on the combination of products you choose.
Can I still have coffee and tea on fasting days?
Yes, including tea and coffee is fine, but during phase one remember not to have them with milk, sugar or syrups which will provide additional calories.
Can I still consume alcohol ?
Alcohol is not recommended as it can place extra strain on your liver and kidneys. Alcohol also has a diuretic effect and contains extra calories which could slow down your weight loss. Try to choose calorie-free drinks instead, such as tea (without milk), or soda water with a spritz of lemon or lime.