Is the Medical Vita Diet safe?

We have been supplying the Medical Vita diet sachets and weight loss programmes to doctors since 1987 and in the past 10 years to pharmacists as well. Their patients and customers are achieving excellent results. We suggest though that before embarking on any weight loss programme people should consult their doctors, for a general health check up. GP Approval Forms are available at your nearest pharmacy. Dr Holloway describes the Medical Vita Diet method as “proven, safe and sure”.

Why does the Vita Diet work?

The weight loss programme is based on the protein sparing modified fast which was devised by doctors as a safe and effective way of treating obesity. The eating programme comprises an adequate intake of proteins and low carbohydrates. The body turns to an alternate source for energy namely the fat cells. Doctors can measure the ketone levels in the urine to ensure that fat is being burnt off at a satisfactory rate. The body's lean muscle mass is protected by the inclusion of 200 gms of protein in the daily diet as well as protein in the sachets.

Why do I need the milkshakes?

The eating programme is designed for weight loss, but as it cuts out bread, pasta, rice and fruit, it is not a balanced diet. The Medical Vita Diet sachets have been formulated to provide most of the required levels of vitamins, minerals and proteins. A multivitamin tablet is taken with every shake. The third meal of the day comprises of either fish, meat or poultry and a healthy serve of fresh vegetables or salads.

Will I be hungry?

Because the weight loss programme satisfies nutritional requirements most people experience no hunger. If they go off the diet and back on to junk food, they can experience cravings because the body is not receiving its usual nutrition. It is easier to stick to the programme.

How much weight can I expect to lose?

Most people lose between 1 to 3 kgs a week if they follow the weight loss programme correctly. Men sometimes lose more weight, especially if they are involved in manual labour or if they exercise frequently.

Can you have the milkshakes without going on the weight loss programme?

Yes. The milkshakes are a healthy and nutritious drink which all members of the family can enjoy.

Are there any side effects to going on the Vita Diet?

If you feel you have a lot of toxins in your system because of poor diet habits we suggest you go on a cleansing diet by eating nothing but fruit and vegetables and drinking water for three days. You might experience symptoms of nausea, sluggishness or lightheadedness. This is due to stored toxins being released into the system. Once these symptoms have passed usually by the third day you can commence the Vita Diet programme.

How can I maintain my goal weight?

You can maintain your weight by replacing one meal a day with a Vita Diet sachet to keep up your vitamin and mineral intake, and then eating a normal diet. Avoid junk foods and fatty foods and eat smaller quantities. If your weight starts to creep up go back on the Vita Diet programme.

Can I drink alcohol?

We suggest one glass of dry white wine or whisky mixed with soda water. These are refreshing and have the least calories.  No beer. After that stick to the soda water.

Why do some people get bad breath?

A small percentage may develop this due to not drinking the required 8 glasses of water a day. It could also be due to a reduction in saliva, ketones or reflux of gas from the stomach. Sugar free mints and gum will aid this.

What are plateaus?

You might find that after losing weight initially your weight remains the same for a few weeks even though you are following the programme faithfully, Make a note of everything you eat and drink and you may find that you are consuming too many carbos. It is also important to take measurements because this might show that you are continuing to lose cms. You might be losing fat but you are contributing protein to maintain your muscle tone and this might be the reason that the weight loss remains static. The fit of your clothes is the best test!

Why do we measure our ketones?

As people expend differing amounts of energy by way of exercise, training and physical labour, they will need differing amounts of carbohydrates. These needs can be monitored by testing the urine with ketostix to ensure that the ketones produced by the fat burning process are moderate. A low reading (trace or beige) means that too many carbohydrates are being consumed whereas a higher reading (purple) means that carbohydrates should be increased. Those in moderate ketosis (in the pink) report feelings of well being, increased energy and very little hunger.

Ketosis: Is it safe? Why do some people say it's dangerous? (an interesting article in PDF format)

For a complete understanding of the Medical Vita Diet, purchase “A Guide to The Medical Vita Diet, by Dr Colin Holloway” from your nearest stockist.

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