Colleen* - Chicago, IL

Before signing up for the OPTIFAST^® Program, Colleen says her “relationship with food was out of control” and she was “constantly thinking” about what to eat for each meal. On top of this she had been prescribed several different medications for weight-related issues, including high-blood pressure. After talking to her doctor about her desire to make a change in her life, they recommended she try the OPTIFAST^® Program.

Colleen says now she is looking at food in a completely different light. “I no longer see healthy eating as a diet, and it is much more of a lifestyle change. It has become a habit and something that truly makes my mind and body feel well,” she revealed. “I'm sleeping better, I have more energy, and I don't feel the need to seek out junk and comfort foods on a regular basis. This program has set me on a positive path to make healthy choices.”

This program has allowed me to learn more about myself and accomplish things that a year ago I would not have done

“I was not someone who would willingly work out or seek out physical exercise and now I make it a priority … My overall health has significantly changed for the better as well. {As a result of my weight loss], I no longer have medications for weight-related illness and I'm less concerned about my health because my diet and exercise routine have really helped me see and feel the differences.”**

As for what she would tell others who are considering trying out OPTIFAST^®, Colleen explained that her 86-lb weight loss* was not easy, but it was exactly what she needed to redefine her relationship with food. “I truly needed the motivation in the beginning to see what I was able to accomplish. [Now I] have all the tools I need to be successful and a great team/program to rely on, but at the end of the day you have to put in the work, and you have to be your own cheerleader.”

^{*The success stories of Opt for OPTIFAST® Contest winners are representative of those individuals only and do not represent all OPTIFAST® patients. OPTIFAST® patients who actively participate in a 26-week program typically lose approximately 30 lbs. and maintained approximately a 25-lb. weight loss at 1 year. In a separate study, OPTIFAST® patients maintained an average weight loss of approximately 19 lbs. after 2 years and 15 lbs. after 3 years from starting the program.}

^{**Maintaining a healthy weight is associated with a reduced risk of diabetes, heart disease and other obesity-related medical conditions. These benefits are not limited or attributed to weight loss with the OPTIFAST® Program, specifically. No case is typical.}