The PronoKal Method: A Medically Controlled Approach
The PronoKal method is a medically supervised weight loss program based on a very-low-calorie ketogenic diet (VLCKD). It is structured in stages to ensure effective, safe fat loss while preserving muscle mass. This is achieved by combining proprietary high-protein meal replacements with specific approved foods, gradually reintroducing a full diet. The strict control of carbohydrate and fat intake in the early stages induces ketosis, prompting the body to burn stored fat for energy. The diet also incorporates exercise and coaching for a comprehensive approach to health and weight management.
The Active Stage: Ketosis and Specific Foods
The initial phase of the PronoKal method, known as the Active Stage, is the most restrictive and is designed to achieve approximately 80% of the target weight loss. During this phase, your diet consists of a combination of high-biological-value protein products developed by PronoKal and a specific list of vegetables. The PronoKal products are derived from natural protein sources like milk, egg, and soy. The number of products consumed daily is determined by your prescribing doctor, typically ranging from four to six.
PronoKal Meal Replacements:
- Drinks & Shakes: Flavors include chocolate, coffee frappe, vanilla, and orange.
- Soups: Savory options such as cream of vegetable, chicken curry, and chicken flavour noodles.
- Omelettes: Available in cheese and mixed herb flavors.
- Bars: Chewy bars in brownie, nut, and strawberry yoghurt flavors.
- Mousses & Desserts: Ready-to-eat mousses and prepare-at-home desserts like chocolate cream and rice pudding.
- Ready-to-Eat Snacks: Keto-friendly crisps, biscuits, and breadsticks.
Approved Vegetables: To complement the PronoKal products, a restricted list of low-carbohydrate vegetables is allowed, primarily consumed with lunch and dinner. This list is carefully selected to maintain the state of ketosis.
- Leafy greens (e.g., romaine lettuce, spinach, kale)
- Cruciferous vegetables (e.g., broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage)
- Peppers
- Mushrooms
- Cucumber
- Aubergine
- Courgette
- Asparagus
- Celery
- Leeks (white part only)
- Radishes
- Endive
- Fennel
- Green beans
The Re-education Stage: Reintroducing Food Groups
Once the majority of the weight loss is achieved, the Re-education Stage begins, where other food groups are gradually reintroduced. This phase, also known as the Progressive Stage, aims to re-stabilize the body and transition towards a balanced diet. Conventional protein sources and low-carb vegetables are introduced, and slowly, a wider variety of foods become acceptable.
Examples of Reintroduced Foods:
- Lean meat (e.g., chicken breast, lean beef)
- Fish (e.g., cod, salmon, haddock)
- Eggs (in their natural form)
- Certain dairy products
- Legumes
The Maintenance Stage: Building Long-Term Habits
The final stage is Maintenance, which can last for up to two years. The goal is to help you maintain your new weight and lifestyle. The dietary plan in this phase is a balanced, normal diet, where all food groups are permitted but with a focus on healthy choices and portion control. Your dietitian provides ongoing support to reinforce proper eating habits and prevent weight regain.
Comparison of Food Types Across PronoKal Stages
| Food Type | Active Stage | Re-education Stage | Maintenance Stage |
|---|---|---|---|
| PronoKal Products | Primary source of protein and nutrition | Gradually reduced | Used as occasional, healthy meal alternatives |
| Approved Vegetables | A restricted list of low-carb vegetables | Expanded list of vegetables | All vegetables permitted |
| Lean Proteins | Not permitted (unless directed) | Gradually introduced | Regular part of a balanced diet |
| Carbohydrates | Heavily restricted | Gradually reintroduced (e.g., whole-grain bread) | Allowed within a balanced diet plan |
| Fats | Minimal, controlled intake | Gradually reintroduced (e.g., olive oil) | Normal part of a balanced diet |
| Fruits | Not permitted | Gradually introduced | All fruits permitted |
| Dairy | Not permitted | Specific low-fat dairy gradually introduced | All dairy permitted |
Conclusion
The PronoKal method is a highly structured, medically monitored program where the type of foods allowed changes significantly across its stages. The journey begins with proprietary high-protein, low-carb products and specific vegetables during the ketogenic phase to facilitate rapid fat loss. As you progress, a carefully managed reintroduction of conventional food groups prepares you for long-term weight maintenance. Success hinges on strictly adhering to the food plan prescribed by your medical and nutritional team at every step. For detailed information on their products and program structure, you can visit the official PronoKal website.
