FAQs

• What is the Slim·Fast 3·2·1 Plan?
  • Slim·Fast is formally known as a 'meal replacement plan'. You choose two highly nutritious Slim·Fast meals for two of your meals such as breakfast and lunch, and prepare your own healthy 600-calorie evening meal. You can add up to three snacks a day to help keep you feeling satisfied between meals - fruit and vegetables are ideal. Slim·Fast works because it is structured and calorie counted, helping you keep to the diet and avoid over eating.
• How do you do the Slim·Fast 3·2·1 Plan?
  • The Slim·Fast 3·2·1 Plan is designed to be easy and convenient. You should replace 2 meals a day with a Slim·Fast meal replacement (for example breakfast and lunch) and your third meal should be a healthy, nutritious meal of 600 calories for a female and 800 calories for a male. We recommend that you have fruit or vegetables for snacks, but we also have a great tasting range of Slim·Fast snacks for convenience all less than 100 calories. In total the plan is designed to deliver a total intake of between 1200-1400 calories per day. In addition, you should aim to drink between 1.5-2 litres of water per day. It is also important that whilst on the plan you aim to do 30 minutes of moderately intense physical activity every day.
• What are meal replacements?
  • Meal replacements are highly nutritious, fortified foods designed to replace a conventional meal. They allow you to cut calories, not nutrition. They are formulated in line with National and European legislation to meet the highest nutritional standards. The meal must contain at least 25% protein, 30% of 23 vitamins and minerals plus essential fatty acids (Linoleic Acid).
• Can I really get balanced nutrition from the Slim·Fast 3·2·1 Plan?
  • Yes! When you combine 2 Slim·Fast meal replacements, 2 to 3 healthy snacks (under 100 calories), and a sensible third meal of 600 calories, you can get all the daily nutrition you need whilst losing weight. The Slim·Fast 3·2·1 Plan provides 1200 to 1400 calories per day, which is a safe and effective level for weight loss. Each Slim·Fast meal replacement gives you a third of your daily nutrition.
• Is the Slim·Fast 3·2·1 Plan suitable for everyone to follow?
  • If you need to lose more than 20% of your body weight (have a BMI over 30), are taking any medication or are under 18 years of age, then you must see your doctor to discuss your weight loss plans.
• What is the BMI, and how is it calculated?
  • The Body Mass Index (BMI) is used to provide a good estimate as to whether someone is a healthy weight for their height. BMI is defined as the weight in kilograms divided by the square of the height in meters (kg/m²). A healthy BMI is 18.5-24.9. A BMI over 25 is defined as overweight, and over 30 is defined as obese.
• How quickly can I see results whilst following the Slim·Fast 3·2·1 Plan?
  • As weight loss varies considerably between individuals it is impossible to predict exactly what any individual may lose following the Slim·Fast 3·2·1 Plan. However, experts recommend a healthy weight loss of between 1-2lbs per week. Providing you stick to the plans calorie recommendation of 1200-1400 calories, this should lead to a weight loss of 1-2 lbs per week. Weight loss will also tend to be higher the heavier someone is.
• Is the Slim·Fast 3·2·1 Plan actually proven to work?
  • Yes, Slim·Fast has a number of studies to support its effectiveness. For a review of the science please visit www.slimfast-medical.co.uk (please note this is for health care professionals only).
• Can I safely follow the Slim·Fast 3·2·1 Plan on a long-term basis?
  • Yes, you can safely follow the Slim·Fast 3·2·1 Plan on a long-term basis. You can remain on the Slim·Fast 3·2·1 Plan until you reach your target weight. However, you should never diet below a body mass index (BMI) of 18.5. Slim·Fast meal replacement products are formulated in line with National and European legislation to meet the highest nutritional standards. When weight loss is achieved, and you are just trying to maintain your weight this can be achieved by just replacing one meal per day, and this can be done for as long as someone desires. Remember that for every 1 stone (14lbs) of weight lost, you need to eat 150 calories less each day to maintain your reduced body weight.
• What drinks can I have whilst on the Slim·Fast 3·2·1 Plan?
  • It is recommended that we consume between 1-5-3 litres of fluids each day (about 6-8 glasses each day). Tea and coffee are allowed, using skimmed milk and replacing sugar with sweetener. Ideally you should try to make up the majority of your fluid requirements by consuming water and low-calorie squashes. If you are drinking fluids that contain calories, e.g. milk in your tea and coffee, soft drinks, and fruit juices, you should just make sure that you stay within the plans calorie limit of 1200-1400.
• What types of exercise are best to do whilst following the Slim·Fast 3·2·1 Plan?
  • Any exercise will help you lose weight. Exercise doesn't have to be strenuous or lengthy to be beneficial. Walking is one of the most effective exercises and almost anyone can do it! Ideally you should be aiming to do at least 30 minutes of moderately intense physical activity per day, as your fitness improves then aim to accumulate at least 60 minutes of daily physical activity. Swimming, cycling, and dancing are also great forms of exercise that do not need to be performed in a gym. If you are new to exercise or have any existing medical problems it is advised that you should check with your doctor before starting any type of exercise programme.
• What do I do if I stop losing weight?
  • Initially many people find that they lose weight relatively easily, but as they near their target things get a little more difficult and sometimes no matter how hard you try the weight sticks. For many of us this is so frustrating that we simply give up and revert to our old habits. What we need to do is to encourage our body to use a few more calories. Remember weight loss doesn't come about by simply reducing the number of calories consumed, but ideally by also increasing the number of calories used as energy for exercise. If you hit a weight plateau whilst it is essential that you maintain your pattern of two meal replacements and one healthy, balanced meal, you should also look at ways in which you can 'burn off' a few more calories - be more active! Take the stairs rather than the lift or escalator, walk the dog, walk the kids if necessary (it is good for them too!), go for a swim or take up a gentle aerobic class. If you do this you'll see that you can soon break through that weight barrier. One word of caution, the exercise should be gentle and gradual. If you haven't exercised for a while consult your own GP for advice.
• Once I lose weight, how do I keep it off?
  • For every stone lost you need to eat 150 calories less per day - always. Tactics for weight management include healthy eating and regular physical activity. Continue to replace one meal a day with a Slim·Fast shake, and eat sensibly for the remaining two meals, including 1-2 low-fat snacks. In addition research shows that people who include physical activity in their daily routine are more likely to keep the weight off. Moderate activity, such as 30 minutes of walking or cycling will help you to maintain your weight. Weigh yourself regularly. If you gain a few pounds, restart the Slim·Fast 3·2·1 Plan, until the unwanted pounds are lost. Then, enjoy Slim·Fast everyday to help you stay healthy, fit and energetic.
• Can meals be interchanged?
  • Of course they can! As long as you combine 2 Slim·Fast meal replacements, 2 to 3 healthy 100 kcal snacks, and a sensible third meal of 600 calories. We recommend that you cook your own meal in the evening, because we think that it is probably the moment of the day when you have time to cook and most of all when you are able to share a normal meal with your family. Feel free to organise your meals as you wish as long as you follow the plan!
• Are Slim·Fast products free from celery?
  • Only the powdered milk shake powders contain celery, all other Slim·Fast products are free from celery.
• Are Slim·Fast products free from cereals containing gluten?
  • Only the ready-to-drink milk shakes are free from cereals containing gluten. All other Slim·Fast products contain gluten.
• Are Slim·Fast products free from crustaceans and derivatives?
  • Yes, all Slim·Fast products are free from crustaceans and derivatives.
• Are Slim·Fast products free from fish and derivatives?
  • Yes, all Slim·Fast products are free from fish and derivatives.
• Are Slim·Fast products free from milk and derivatives?
  • No, if you are lactose intolerant/have an allergy to milk, you cannot use Slim·Fast. All Slim·Fast products contain milk or milk products so they are unfortunately not suitable for you. We do not at present have a non-dairy Slim·Fast product.
• Are Slim·Fast products free from mustard?
  • Yes, all Slim·Fast products are free from mustard.
• Are Slim·Fast products free from nuts and derivatives?
  • The meal bars and all snack bars contain nuts and derivatives, all other Slim·Fast products are free from nuts and derivatives.
• Are Slim·Fast products free from peanuts and derivatives?
  • The meal bars and all snack bars contain peanuts and derivatives, all other Slim·Fast products are free from peanuts and derivatives.
• Are Slim·Fast products free from sesame seed and derivatives?
  • Yes, all Slim·Fast products are free from sesame seed and derivatives.
• Are Slim·Fast products free from soya and derivatives?
  • The ready-to-drink milk shakes (except summer strawberry)XXXnbsp;are free from soya and its derivatives. All other Slim·Fast products contain soya in some form.
• Are Slim·Fast products free from sulphites/sulphur dioxide?
  • Yes, all Slim·Fast products are free from sulphites/sulphur dioxide.
• Are Slim·Fast products suitable for vegans?
  • No, all Slim·Fast products contain lactose, milk or milk products and some products also contain egg.
• Are Slim·Fast products suitable for vegetarians?
  • All Slim·Fast products are suitable for vegetarians except summer strawberry ready-to-drink, fruits of the forest ready-to-drink, and raspberry crush ready-to-drink milk shake.
• Do Slim·Fast products contain egg derivatives?
  • The ready-to-drink milk shakes, cheese biscuit bites, and pretzelsXXXnbsp;are free from egg and egg derivatives. The meal replacement bars, powdered shakes, and snack bars are not free from egg or egg derivatives.
• Are all Slim·Fast products safe?
  • Yes, the safety and efficacy of meal replacements have been examined and confirmed by the Scientific Committee for Foods. However, as with all foods anyone with any potential allergic reaction should check the label carefully. In addition, Slim·Fast should only be used for weight loss by those who need to lose weight. Slim·Fast products have been tested more extensively than any other slimming products of their kind and has always complied with European legislation.
• Where can I buy Slim·Fast?
  • Slim·Fast products are available to purchase in all good retailers and also from our website here
• Can my child have Slim·Fast to lose weight?
  • Slim·Fast meal replacements have been developed to meet adult nutritional needs. Children and young people, especially pre-puberty, have special nutritional needs. However, it is also important for children to keep a healthy weight, so if you think your child needs to lose weight you should consult your doctor for advice about a sensible diet and exercise programme.
• I am diabetic, is the Slim·Fast 3·2·1 Plan safe for me to use?
  • If you have Type 2 Diabetes and are overweight then you will almost certainly benefit from weight loss. However, you should not start a programme like the Slim·Fast 3·2·1 plan without first consulting your doctor, as your diabetic condition and any medication that you may be taking will need continuous monitoring and adjustment while you lose weight. If you are a Type 1 Diabetic (requiring insulin), this is a serious medical condition, and you must first discuss your weight loss plan with your doctor as your dosage of insulin may need to be adjusted as your weight reduces.
• Can people on medication follow the Slim·Fast 3·2·1 Plan?
  • Whatever medication you take, for whatever condition, your doctor is likely to need to change the dose if you lose weight because of the metabolic changes that take place as you lose weight, some of which may make adjustment of medication important. Therefore, you should not use Slim·Fast or any weight loss programme if you are taking medication prescribed by your doctor, without first consulting your doctor.
• Can using Slim·Fast cause a headache?
  • Weight loss by any method can have a number of mild side affects - such as dizziness, headaches, feeling cold - but these are normally transient, and the headaches and dizziness can often be overcome by drinking sufficient water. If your symptoms persist you must consult your doctor.
• Will using Slim·Fast cause me any problems such as flatulence, constipation or diarrhoea?
  • Following the Slim·Fast 3·2·1 Plan is completely safe, and should not cause any side effects. However, if you do experience any ill effects, it is important to rule out any possible allergy to lactose (the sugar found in dairy). Another factor that may be a problem with some is the amount of fibre in the Slim·Fast meal replacements products. Slim·Fast is high in fibre, which may cause flatulence in people who are not accustomed to a high fibre intake. If this is an issue then you should introduce Slim---Fast gradually into your diet at the rate of one per day for a week just to start with. If you are experiencing any ill effects it is important that you drink plenty of fluids, and keeping physical active is also important. If any symptoms are experienced, these generally last no more than a couple of days, however, if symptoms do persist for more than a couple of days you should consult your doctor.
• Is Slim·Fast suitable while breastfeeding?
  • Breastfeeding uses a lot of calories - your baby will take an average of 500 calories from your body daily. Both pregnancy and breastfeeding are special conditions with particular nutritional needs. If your midwife, health visitor or doctor feels you need to lose weight you should ask them for specific guidance on how to achieve your weight loss.
• If I am pregnant, can I still follow the Slim·Fast 3·2·1 Plan?
  • While some women become too heavy during pregnancy, which can create health problems. In these cases Slim·Fast would be acceptable, but such advice should only come from a health professional. Pregnancy requires a very high level of nutrition, so you should never consider Slim·Fast or any weight loss programme without discussing the plan with your doctor.
• I’m getting stomach aches. Is Slim·Fast the cause?
  • Slim·Fast is quite high in fibre, which can cause symptoms such as constipation or stomach cramps. However, these symptoms are usually temporary and normally disappear within a few days. It’s important to increase your fluid intake so that, as the fibre passes through your system, it absorbs more fluids. Remember to try to drink around 2 litres of water a day. Symptoms can also be experienced when making rapid changes to your diet, but remember that the Slim·Fast plan is safe, and has been checked by the Scientific Committee for Foods. However, if symptoms do persist for more than a few days, stop the plan and consult your doctor.
• Can you use soya milk for Slim Fast shakes?
  • While it is fine to use soya milk instead of cow's milk, you just need to make sure that you use an extra 50ml per serving with our Slim·Fast powdered shakes. This extra 50ml is to make up the slight deficit in protein. Soya milk contains around the same calories but a bit less protein.
• Should I drink alcohol while on my Slim·Fast plan?
  • Alcohol can be the dieter's downfall, so it's wise to plan ahead – decide how much you can drink without your dieting willpower disappearing, and then stick to it. And remember, like all foods, alcohol contributes to your daily quota of energy (each gram of alcohol contains 7 calories), so drinking too much can lead to weight gain. Alcohol isn’t that nutritious either, so it’s not sensible to replace meals with it – if you enjoy a glass of wine with dinner, use up part of your snack allowance to do it, rather than replacing important nutrients.
• Can I take weight loss pills as well as Slim·Fast?
  • Slim·Fast 3·2·1 plan is designed to provide between 1200 and 1400 calories per day, made up from a combination of meal replacements, normal foods and snacks. These calorie levels were set to ensure gradual weight loss of between 1 and 2lbs per week. A steady weight loss is important for long-term success on a diet. However, if you want to combine slimming aid tablets with Slim·Fast, this should also be safe. Just remember to always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on how to use the product. Ask your pharmacist or doctor if you are unsure.
• How much water should I drink while on the Slim·Fast 3·2·1 plan?
  • It’s recommended that we drink between 1½ and 3 litres of fluids each day (about 6-8 glasses). Tea and coffee are allowed, using skimmed milk and replacing sugar with sweetener. You can also consume water and low-calorie squashes. If you are drinking fluids that contain calories, such as milk in your tea and coffee, soft drinks, and fruit juices, you should still make sure you stay within the plan’s limit of 1200-1400 calories.
• Do men need to follow the Slim·Fast 3·2·1 Plan differently to women?
  • Men on the diet can still follow the same plan, but because their calorie requirements are higher, we recommend they consume between 1600 – 1800 calories a day. To achieve this, men should increase the calorie content of their evening meal to around 800 calories.

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