Frequently asked questions
What is Minçavi?
Minçavi is a dietary program based on Canada?s Food Guide. Founded in 1984, Minçavi offers 200 service points where individuals meet a conference host, get an assigned personal weight loss program, get weighed-in and attend a motivational conference. During certain times of the year, Minçavi food samplings are done in these groups. If you don?t have a Minçavi group in your town, you can communicate with our toll free number or write to mincavi@mincavi.com to find out how Minçavi can have a group in your hometown.
What is our philosophy?
In the first place, Minçavi?s role is to help it?s members progressively improve their health and well-being. An increasing number of studies show that a weight-loss objective leading to thinness can paradoxically maintain obesity and, in certain cases, worsen it. At Minçavi, success is not defined by thinness, but rather by a healthy weight-loss. Thus, our new members are encouraged to set a 5% weight-loss goal when beginning the program. Such a loss, although modest, provides significant benefits on the physical and mental levels. Afterwards, other 5%-goals may be set, if so desired. Secondly, we help our members develop abilities that will provide long-term weight maintenance. For most people, maintaining a weight loss and staying healthy requires permanent lifestyle changes. For that reason, the multidisciplinary team at Minçavi is always working to develop conferences, training sessions and various services providing education and support while helping our members develop a sense of autonomy.
Is there a Minçavi in my region?
To know more visit the Find a meeting section.
Are there health professionals on the Minçavi team?
The Minçavi team includes a nutritionist. Minçavi cares for the health and well being of its members.
What is a Minçavi meeting like?
Firstly, you will be greeted by the Minçavi assistant and be invited to get weighed-in by our conference host. You will then have the option of staying for the motivational conference that lasts about 30 minutes. For new members, the program explanation will occur after the conference. This weekly meeting is held in a respectful and trusting environment. The Minçavi team is there to assist you in reaching your weight loss objectives. Also during a certain period, after the conference you are invited to a food sampling of some of the healthy Minçavi recipes. A great way to discover cooking tips and exchange ideas.
I'm afraid the scale will not read my weight. Is that possible?
The Minçavi scale has a 440 lbs., or 200 kg capacity. If your weight is greater, maybe your first objective could be to get on the scale. Don't be shy! We are not here to judge you. We are here to help you.
Where must we gor for grocery shopping?
The Minçavi nutritional program is based on a home-style food program. You can shop in your regular grocery store (Provigo, Métro, Loblaws, etc.). Also most grocery stores hold the Minçavi ready-to-serve meals, which contain calculated portions according to the Minçavi programs.
Can I attend the first meeting for free?
Of course. The first meeting can be used to discover what Minçavi is all about. We will be glad to invite you to stay for the conference and visit with other members.
Who is Minçavi for?
Minçavi is for everyone; men, women and adolescents (keeping in mind our policy for people under 18). Remember that the most important legacy to leave with those you love is health. We also have a special program for pregnant women and women who choose to breast feed.
Are the weigh-in?s obligatory?
Yes, in a way they are. To assure that your weight loss is a success, we suggest going to your weigh-in's every week. It is possible to go every 2 weeks if your schedule permits. Weigh-in's done on a regular basis are shown to be a successful tool on your journey towards a healthier life.
What are the fees?
It is important to note that you do not sign a contract with Minçavi. You attend the meetings for as long as you'd like.
Price list
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Inscription for everyone : 35$ Includes: Minçavi's dietary program, Minçavi's First Recipe Book, weigh-in card, motivational conference and weigh-in.
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Inscription without recipes book #1: 28$
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Re-inscription : 18$
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* New dietary program: 8$ (Has to have already been a Minçavi member)
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Adult weigh-in : 9$
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Student weigh-in (25 years or less) : 6$
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Adult weigh-in every 2 weeks : 16$
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Student weigh-in every 2 weeks : 12$
Am I a member in every group?
Yes, when you are a Minçavi member, you are a member in EVERY group. Upon presentation of your membership card, you will be able to benefit from all of the advantages offered in each group.
Do I have to attend the motivational conference?
You are not obliged to attend. They are offered as a tool to help you along your journey. Your conference host is trained to be able to assist you through-out the phases of weight loss. A conference lasts between 25-35 minutes.
