Since some people struggle to apply rules from diet programs, Medifast has come up with a program that removes that problem. The Medifast program provides pre-packaged meals, which eliminates the potential to slip up, as well as the struggle that comes with counting calories or points. This really is a simple program, and available at a lower price than a number of its competitors.

What’s in it?

Medifast does include a few different options so you can choose the diet that's right for you, including a specific menu for diabetic customers, men, and women. Meals are delivered “to your door” to avoid the extra time you might spend preparing special meals, grocery shopping, and/or counting calories. However, during transition and maintenance stages, customers are required to count calories in order to keep up their weight loss success, and each person’s calorie level must be chosen by that individual, since each person’s needs are different. This is another positive aspect of the diet, since creators recognize that a "one-size-fits-all" plan doesn't work in the dieting world. Live chat is also available, although some users have had difficulty accessing the support system on a regular basis.

How does it work?

You are able to “shop” through Medifast’s website, choosing complete diet plans, and in some cases, specific foods. The program promises you will lose 20 pounds in 30 days, and their system provides you with “5+1” (which adds up to 6) meals per day. For someone who struggles with snacking, the Medifast program is a great answer. After you reach your target weight loss, there are also transition, maintenance, and exercise segments to help support you long-term.

Who does it work for?

The primary issue with this kind of diet is maintaining your weight loss. Although Medifast may help you drop some weight, as the testimonials on its website state, it may still be difficult for you to implement lifestyle changes. Since Medifast encourages eliminating any temptation from your daily food intake, you may not have learned the self control needed to continue eating the kind of balanced diet you should, which means you will have to work extra hard to maintain your weight loss after you stop receiving the Medifast meals. Even with the transition and maintenance programs (which include exercise as well, an aspect we find very encouraging), you are introducing these positive habits after you’ve already lost the weight, so it may be difficult for you to find the motivation to keep up your new figure.

Are there possible side effects?

Unless you have a specific unknown food allergy, you shouldn’t have any side effects from the Medifast meal plan. Although Medifast doesn’t appear to allow an option for eating out, the results you will see are likely worth missing a few restaurant-style meals.

Are there any “bonus” features?

Right now, if you sign up for Medifast’s VIP Program, you receive the following (a $200 value) free: 2 weeks of Medifast meals, online meal planner, weight loss tracker, community support, the book The Secret it Out, free shipping, and a 5% discount on future orders. This is likely an on-going offer to inspire a long-term commitment. If you are interested in having your daily meals planned for you, Medifast might be a good option. There are a number of FAQ on their website, so if this something you are interested in, check out the company’s website. While Medifast is likely to work best when paired with regular exercise, their simple meal delivery program is both affordable and proven to work.