Approaching the protein-sparing modified fast.

The protein-sparing modified fast is a safe and effective method for losing a large amount of weight relatively quickly. This diet should be used in combination with an exercise program, behavior modification and patient education. Caloric intake is in the range of 400 to 800 per day. Candidates for the diet should be generally healthy; they should have at least 40 lb to lose or be at more than 120 percent of their ideal body weight.