| USES:
Modifast intended for use as part of the management of moderate to severe obesity, either where this is simple obesity or where there is associated secondary pathology: e.g. non insulin dependent diabetes, hypertension, osteoarthritis, hypothyroidism corrected by replacement therapy, gynaecological disorders, hyperlipidaemia or where obesity is an impediment to surgery.
The use of modified fasting is well established as a safe and effective method of rapid weight loss provided that medical supervision is maintained. Weight loss rates are comparable to those achieved by total fasting, but the disadvantages of ketosis and loss of lean body mass are minimised. Adequate nutritional status is also maintained. Patients have undertaken modified fasting regimens for many months but progress should be reviewed at least twice monthly if the duration of modified fast exceeds one month.
There are various contra-indications, adverse reactions and information on monitoring which should be understood before embarking on the use of
Modifast.
MONITORING:
At the commencement of the program, individuals should be checked for normal renal and hepatic function and thereafter regular checks for weight, blood pressure and urinalysis.
CONTRA-INDICATIONS:
Patients with cerebrovascular disease, acute
cardiovascular disease, renal disease, hepatic disease, juvenile onset
diabetes, overt psychosis or porphyria should not undergo modified
fasting.
PRECAUTIONS:
Patients with recent myocardial infarction should be referred to a cardiologist to determine suitability for modified fasting. Patients receiving medication for diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidaemia or those on lithium therapy may require a reduction in dose or withdrawal of treatment whilst undergoing modified fasting. Such patients should be monitored carefully in the first weeks of a Modifast programme. Patients with a history of liver or kidney disease should also be monitored carefully.
ADVERSE REACTIONS:
Initial transient effects have been observed-sensitivity to cold, dry skin, temporary rash, postural hypotension, fatigue, diarrhoea, constipation, muscle cramps, halitosis, irritability, menstrual disturbances. These are generally insufficient in magnitude or duration to warrant cessation of the programme. In some rare cases, numbness and the appearance of previously unsuspected gall-stones have been reported.
Rapid weight loss occasionally leads to higher serum uric acid levels and might precipitate an acute attack of gout in a predisposed patient. This may be ameliorated by ensuring adequate fluid intake, but in severe cases therapy such as allopurinol may be indicated. Although Modifast contains adequate electrolytes for the needs of most individuals, some subjects may become hyponatraemic or hypokalaemic, especially if they are receiving diuretic therapy. In such circumstances electrolyte supplements may be required.
PREPARATION:
Add one sachet of Modifast to approximately 250 ml of cold or
warm water. Stir or shake to dissolve. Do not use boiling water. If desired more water may be added.
For Modifast pudding use 200 ml of cold water and stir or shake thoroughly. The pudding will gain in taste after 10 minutes of refrigeration.
ADMINISTRATION:
Modifast should replace all food. Three sachets per day (52g protein, 2010 kJ) taken at mealtimes and supplemented by at least 2 litres of energy-free liquids (water, diet "pop", black coffee or tea -
saccharine allowed). a programme of regular light exercise enhances patient
well-being and therefore, likelihood of success. |
