A protein sparing diet, also referred to as protein sparing modified fast (PSMF), is a highly structured diet program designed to encourage rapid weight loss in moderately to severely obese patients. The weight loss achieved on this diet plan can help jump-start weight loss and restructure problematic eating habits to encourage long term weight management. Protein is the main source of energy in this diet, while other foods are restricted, making it a "modified" fast rather than true fast. The PSMF is a low-carbohydrate, ketogenic diet similar to the Adkins regime, but much lower in calories.
Purpose
A PSMF program is often used to trigger rapid weight loss in patients who are struggling with obesity and have not had success with other weight loss plans. In many cases, patients may face obesity-related health problems, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or high blood sugar levels. A PSMF includes very strict regulation of calories and allows patients to lose weight without the risk of muscle wasting, which may occur with normal fasting or low-calorie diets. As patients lose weight, they often experience associated improvements in their physical health and activity levels.
Diet Guidelines
A Protein Sparing program allows only lean protein, such as chicken, turkey, fish, and egg whites and low-carbohydrates vegetables such as mixed greens, kale, spinach, and broccoli. Meals are very simple and should be free of fatty condiments, sauces or butter. Carbohydrates such as bread, pastas, rice, cereals, baked goods and any form of sugar, are strictly prohibited on a PSMF diet. Restrictions include beverages, which should be limited to water and sugar-free drinks. Dieters may not drink fruit juices, soda, or alcohol.
Exercise and Counseling
Most PSMF diets are offered by medical weight loss centers that also require patients to take part in psychological counseling and exercise classes. Patients learn behavioral coping skills to manage stress and avoid destructive eating habits triggered by emotions. Adopting a regular workout routine is also an essential aspect of long term weight management goals, and patients are carefully instructed in physical training methods and workout planning. These new skills are essential to maintaining the weight loss achieved on a PSMF program.
Expert Insights
The Cleveland Clinic notes that PSMF diet plans are intended only for obese patients. The food plan used on this diet is not intended for long term use, and is not appropriate for individuals who only wish to lose a few pounds. Doctor supervision is required, and, as a patient completes the fasting stage of the plan a dietitian must supervise the "refeeding" stage in which the patient introduces complex carbohydrates back into the diet. The goal is to return to a healthy, balanced diet without reverted back to unhealthy eating habits that will result in weight gain.
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