A person may benefit most from working with a personal trainer and registered dietitian, who can help tailor a weight loss plan to suit their lifestyle and medical needs. Clinical Study References: Glucomannan : double blind placebo controlled clinical study on 20 obese subjects (IMC>30) during 8 weeks, Walsh DE et al. Int. Journal of obesity, 1984; 8(4): 289-93; Chitosan: single blind placebo controlled clinical study on 92 overweight and obese subjects (25

It may also be helpful for people who do not have a lot of time to incorporate a new diet into their routine. Huerta, S., et al. (2004). Feasibility of a partial meal replacement plan for weight loss in low-income patients. DIY shakes: A person can make these at home with protein powders, yogurts, seeds, nuts, fruits, vegetables, and other ingredients.

Verywell Fit articles are reviewed by board-certified physicians and nutrition and exercise healthcare professionals. Medical Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more. While no foods are off-limits, opting for the following can make it easier to stay within the calorie allowance: Limits healthy cooking: You may not learn healthy cooking methods on the SlimFast diet plan—and cooking is not required on the program. And since you can consume a hearty 500 to 800 calories at your main meal, eating out or buying ready-to-eat processed food could be tempting. Encourages exercise: SlimFast is a proponent of exercise, although no formal program is provided. Some research has shown that exercise combined with meal replacement programs like SlimFast can lead to weight loss. However, these studies typically included guided support or education programs as part of the trial. Morgan, L. M., et al. (2009). Comparison of the effects of four commercially available weight-loss programmes on lipid-based cardiovascular risk factors [Abstract].

At Verywell, we believe there is no one-size-fits-all approach to a healthy lifestyle. Successful eating plans need to be individualized and take the whole person into consideration. Prior to starting a new diet plan, consult with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian, especially if you have an underlying health condition. What Is the SlimFast Diet? As SlimFast provides a set plan that cannot easily be individualized, the results of this study suggest that SlimFast may not be suitable for long-term or significant weight loss. Some are designed for ketogenic or diabetes-friendly diets. For example, the keto options include trail mixes, Cheddar Cheese Crisps, and bars. Products are accessible: SlimFast products are available at many supermarkets, grocery stores, and pharmacies around the United States. They are also available online.

Lowe MR, Butryn ML, Thomas JG, Coletta M. Meal replacements, reduced energy density eating, and weight loss maintenance in primary care patients: a randomized controlled trial. Obesity (Silver Spring). 2014;22(1):94-100. doi:10.1002/oby.20582 DiNicolantonio JJ, Lucan SC, O’Keefe JH. The evidence for saturated fat and for sugar related to coronary heart disease. Prog Cardiovasc Dis. 2016;58(5):464-472. doi:10.1016/j.pcad.2015.11.006 Additionally, this study suggested that weight loss and maintenance should be individualized, as the authors did not find one particular best strategy for weight loss in the studies they reviewed.