General information
Obesity is a primary health concern and a risk factor for coronary
heart disease, diabetes, gall bladder disease, arthritis, and
peripheral vascular disease. Weight loss can make a significant
contribution to improving general health and well-being. The
Protein-Sparing Modified Fast (PSMF) is designed for rapid weight
loss and incorporates medical, nutritional, and behavioral
components. The goal of this diet is to reach an appropriate body
weight as determined by your physician and dietitian.
Carbohydrate, protein, and fat are the nutrients in food that
provide energy for proper functioning, maintenance, and repair of
the body. In addition to these three nutrients, the human body
requires water, vitamins, and minerals for good health.
While on the PSMF program, only lean meat, seafood, poultry, and
a limited amount of low-carbohydrate vegetables should be eaten.
Carbohydrates and additional forms of fat are not allowed on this
program. The high protein intake is to prevent the body from using
its own protein stores in muscles, tissues, and cells for energy.
Thus the program is a "modified" fast.
Carbohydrates are usually the body's primary source of energy.
Since a very limited amount of carbohydrates are consumed, fat
becomes the primary fuel source for the body. This rapid breakdown
of fat produces ketones that spill into the urine, called ketosis.
Ketones in the urine are desirable. While in ketosis, most people
lose their appetite, which is a benefit of this program. A large
amount of the water in your body is stored with carbohydrates.
Since carbohydrate intake is severely limited and storage is
severely depleted, dehydration is a health concern. To compensate,
adequate quantities of fluid, sodium, and prescription potassium
are required each day. Eating foods that are not appropriate can
stop ketosis, which not only means less weight reduction, but it
can cause dangerous shifts in the body's fluid and
electrolytes.
Behavior Modification
You will be asked to change your eating habits. Throughout the
program, new behaviors will be introduced to encourage healthy
habits. Your serious effort is required to change old eating
habits, which will help you reach and maintain your desired weight.
Your physician or dietitian may recommend an appointment with a
psychologist to assist with behavior modification.
Appointment schedule
| Physician Schedule | Dietitian Schedule |
| Initial appointment and assessment | Visit 1: Initial evaluation and instruction |
| Follow-up appointments: | Visit 2: 2 weeks later |
| Approximately every 2 months | Visit 3: 2-3 weeks later |
| Appointments every month for the rest of the program |