Call: The Protein Sparing Modified Fast is designed for quick weight loss. This is an aggressive weight loss program and when followed closely with proper medical supervision, it is extremely effective for our patients. By eating primarily protein (lean meat, fish, fowl, and protein supplements) and a few non-starchy vegetables, we will structure your program to maximize results. Weight loss on the Modified Fast is similar to our Optifast Program, but on the Modified Fast, individuals generally choose more foods that they prepare themselves (mostly protein and vegetables), with fewer meal replacements.
In addition to the food plan, patients on the Modified Fast weight loss program are seen in the clinic weekly not only for monitoring and support, but to participate in our behavioral program which involves teaching the skills necessary to keep weight off. In fact, we begin working on maintaining weight loss at your first visit. Although this food plan is different from an Optifast Program, patients on the Modified Fast may use some Optifast foods and also have access to the entire library of Optifast Lifestyle Education Series behavioral modules.
About our VLCD (very low calorie diet) / Modified Fast
Patients seeking to lose weight at a more moderate pace, or patients with less than 20 pounds to lose are generally advised to consider the Advanced Program. However, patients desiring the most rapid pace of weight loss may choose this Modified Fast / VLCD approach. By structuring the diet with adequate, high quality protein and balancing in the minimum necessary amount of carbohydrate and fat the body is forced to burn fat as a primary fuel source. Some protein supplementation (minimum 2 per day) is required to insure high quality, improve variety, and to protect muscle mass even at this very reduced calorie count.
Most patients on a VLCD experience little hunger and have good energy levels. If needed and appropriate, appetite suppressant medication can be added.
This type of meal plan is appropriate for relatively healthy individuals with a significant amount of weight to lose. It is imperative to have proper medical supervision to insure it is done properly and safely. The Modified Fast transitions easily to an Advanced Program, or to an Individualized Exchange Program for long-term maintenance.