Starting Medifast

• How do I get started on Medifast?
  You should consult with your physician or qualified medical practitioner prior to beginning (and throughout the course of) any weight loss program. You’ll want to order at least a 2-week supply (a 4-week supply is ideal) of Medifast Meals before you start, then continue ordering on a monthly basis. Schedule your re-orders at least one (1) week in advance so you don’t run out of Medifast Meals.
• Can I do the program if I am a vegetarian?
  Yes. There are numerous vegetarian options available within the Medifast Meal lineup. For specific information, refer to our complete list of Vegetarian Products. You can substitute Meatless Options for the LEAN portion of the Lean & Green Meal. Additional Meatless Options are available on our Lean Options List. Low carbohydrate vegetables used in conjunction with your Lean & Green Meal can be referenced through our Vegetable List.
• When should I start my Medifast program?
  The first three days are critical to your success, so pick a start date that makes sense for your schedule. You might want to look for a time when you don’t anticipate any family, work-related or other social-type events that involve food.
• What should I do when on vacation?
  Medifast recommends planning ahead so you can continue your program while vacationing. If your meals aren’t with you, you can’t eat them! This may necessitate packing food items in your luggage. Pre-planning can help you continue to lose weight while you travel. Customers who are able to plan and continue the program while traveling or ordering out get the best results. Traveling presents countless eating temptations, with the availability of foods that are not part of the Medifast program. Always remember your end goals -- a healthier weight and a healthier lifestyle. If you’re unable to follow your current 5 & 1 Plan, you can try a 3 & 2 Plan (3 Medifast Meals plus 2 Lean & Green Meals). Remember to limit portion sizes in your Lean & Green Meals –- and enjoy your travel!
  
  If your vacation involves strenuous activity (e.g., skiing or bicycling), you may contact Nutrition Support for advice about incorporating additional calories to help prevent fatigue.
• How long can I stay on the Medifast 5 & 1 Plan?
  You may stay on the 5 & 1 Plan until:

  • you’ve lost your desired amount of weight
  • you develop a new contraindication to the program (such as pregnancy)
  • your physician recommends you transition into Maintenance Plan

  If you have significant weight to lose and plan to be on the weight loss phase of the program beyond 16 weeks, we recommend that your physician monitor your program. After you’ve completed the weight loss phase, you will transition into the Maintenance Plan. Nutrition Support at Medifast is available to guide you in this transition if you need assistance.
• I'm trying to quit smoking -- could this affect my results with Medifast?
  For general health, it is recommended that you stop smoking. Most individuals cannot successfully stop smoking and start a weight loss diet at the same time. Once you are no longer smoking, a weight loss program, like Medifast, is highly recommended.