Low carbohydrate maintenance doesn’t work for most patients, because they try not to cheat, and get in trouble when carbohydrate cravings get the better of them and go into feeding frenzy. However, cheating once or twice a week on low carbohydrate maintenance does work for most patients, because at least for a day or two a week, there are no forbidden foods. Patients make lists of what they are going to eat on their cheat day or cheat days, and enjoy themselves. 50% of patients can cheat one day a week and maintain on low carbohydrate maintenance. 50% of patients can cheat two days a week and maintain. Low carbohydrate maintenance for most patients is eating 2500 calories a day or protein and fat, and unlimited 5% Vegetables. 5% Vegetables are vegetables that are no more than 5% carbohydrate, which means you can eat almost any vegetable you like, except peas, potatoes or corn. Most patients are able to freely feed (within reason) without counting calories, and maintain on low carb maintenance. Low calorie maintenance just doesn’t work for most patients.