By Kim Droze
eDiets Managing Editor
Far too often, there's an understatement of what SlimFast actually is. The time-tested weight loss program goes beyond shakes and bars. Unfortunately, many people have the wrong idea about the innovative and safe plan that�s evolved throughout the years. When it comes to Slim�Fast folklore, nobody sets the record straight better than Patricia Groziak, Senior Manager of Medical Marketing at Slim�Fast.
Here, she dispels three of the most common myths about Slim�Fast.
Myth #1: Slim�Fast is just a line of diet supplements.
"The truth is that Slim�Fast is a safe, sensible and effective weight loss plan that offers a comprehensive approach to weight management. It's much more than �shake, shake, sensible meal,�" Patricia tells eDiets. "It includes four key elements for success: a personalized and balanced diet, an individualized physical activity program, 24/7 support and advice, and tracking and self-monitoring.
"It's about a lifestyle change and learning to eat healthy by following a structured approach that simplifies portion and calorie control while offering food variety and flexibility in meal planning."
You can now get Slim Fast When you become a member, you�ll be
provided with the four key elements that make the program a success.
Myth #2: Slim�Fast proof is just based on testimonials.
Patricia points out that the Slim�Fast Plan is scientifically proven safe and effective for weight loss and weight loss maintenance. There are 30 clinical studies conducted by leading weight loss experts that have been published in peer-reviewed scientific journals which substantiate the efficacy of the plan. Weight loss on the Slim�Fast Plan has been associated with reducing the health risks associated with obesity, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and hypertension, she says.
Myth #3: Slim�Fast only works for people who have 10 or 20 pounds to lose.
"Slim�Fast has been helping people lose weight safely and effectively for over 25 years, whether it's 10 pounds or 100 pounds. It's a weight management approach that is about progress, not perfection, and is designed to help dieters achieve their healthy weight as determined by their individual needs and goals," says Patricia.
"You can see two of our many success stories in the latest Slim�Fast television and print advertising. Heather M, 31, is a stay-at-home mom from Indianapolis, Indiana who lost 78 pounds over 13 months on the Slim�Fast plan and has kept it off for over two years. Andrea G, a conference-service manager from Santa Fe, New Mexico, lost 85 pounds on the Slim�Fast plan, dropping from a size 22 to a size 10."
Check out the top 10 things you should know about Slim�Fast�s new Optima Diet:
1. The Slim�Fast Optima Diet is a safe, sensible and effective way to lose weight. There are 30 published clinical studies conducted by leading weight loss experts that prove that the Slim�Fast Plan works!
2. The Slim�Fast Optima Diet is convenient and affordable. The Slim�Fast Optima Diet is an easy-to-follow plan that will fit into anyone�s lifestyle. You can take Slim�Fast Optima products with you anywhere -- it makes meal planning simple and easy.
3. The Slim�Fast Optima Diet is healthy and nutritionally balanced. The Slim�Fast Optima Diet provides a precise balance of lean proteins, complex carbohydrates and healthy fat blends and follows the nutritional recommendations and guidelines from leading health authorities, including the 2005 Dietary Guidelines.
4. You can eat real food! You can mix and match your favorite foods with Slim�Fast Meals on the Slim�Fast Optima Diet. So you won't feel deprived of your favorite fare while you�re losing weight!
5. You can personalize your own Slim�Fast Optima Diet! On eDiets.com, use your "change my plan" option to choose your favorite foods and to develop a plan that fits your meal preferences and hectic lifestyle!
6. You can snack... and still lose weight! The Slim�Fast Optima Diet recommends that you eat at least three healthy snacks (and more if your calorie needs are higher), such as fruits and vegetables, in addition to three meals each and every day.
7. You won't be hungry! Keep your motivation and energy high with great-tasting products and a meal plan that offers six eating occasions each day.
8. Slim�Fast has done the math for you! Forget about measuring portions, counting calories and preparing four-course meals. We help take the guesswork out of dieting by simplifying portion and calorie control. Simply eat and enjoy!
9. You won't get bored! There are over 100 great-tasting new Slim�Fast products -- ranging from Shakes, Meal Bars and Breakfast Bars to Smoothies and Muffin Bars -- along with hundreds of food choices that are part of the diet. There are so many choices!
Are you ready to make the Slim�Fast approach work for you? Click here to fill out a profile and get started losing today!
