Fasting-Mimicking Diet (FMD)

The Fasting-Mimicking Diet (FMD) is a nutritional protocol designed to achieve the benefits of fasting while still providing the body with nutrients. Developed by Dr. Valter Longo and his colleagues, FMD aims to mimic the physiological effects of traditional fasting, but in a way that is safer and more manageable for people to follow. The diet typically involves a reduced calorie intake, specific macronutrient ratios, and is followed for a period of five days each month.

Overview

FMD is based on the principle that certain dietary interventions can trigger some of the beneficial stress responses in the body that are activated by water fasting, such as autophagy (the process by which cells clean out damaged components), without the challenges and potential risks associated with complete food abstinence. The diet is low in calories, proteins, and sugars but high in unsaturated fats.

Research and Mechanisms

Research into FMD, led by Dr. Valter Longo and his team, has shown that it can lead to a reduction in biomarkers for aging, inflammation, and diseases in both animal models and humans. Studies have suggested that FMD can promote regenerative and rejuvenating changes in various biological systems, including the immune system, and may reduce risk factors associated with aging and age-related diseases.

Key Findings

Reduction in biomarkers for aging, inflammation, and diseases.
Improvement in markers of cardiovascular health.
Potential to promote autophagy and stem cell regeneration.

Potential Benefits

Weight Loss: FMD can lead to a reduction in body weight and body fat.
Longevity: Animal studies suggest that FMD may extend lifespan.
Health Improvement: Potential benefits include improved metabolic health, reduced inflammation, and enhanced cognitive function.

How to Follow FMD

The diet typically involves consuming specially formulated meal kits that are low in calories, proteins, and sugars but high in unsaturated fats for five consecutive days, followed by a return to a normal diet for the rest of the month. It is recommended to undergo this diet under medical supervision, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

Safety and Considerations

While FMD is generally considered safe for healthy individuals, it is not suitable for everyone. Specific groups, such as pregnant women, individuals with a low body mass index (BMI), or those with certain medical conditions, should avoid this diet. Consulting with a healthcare provider before starting FMD is crucial.

Todo

2024, Fasting-mimicking diet causes hepatic and blood markers changes indicating reduced biological age and disease risk ^[1]

References

↑ Brandhorst S et al.: Fasting-mimicking diet causes hepatic and blood markers changes indicating reduced biological age and disease risk. Nat Commun 2024. (PMID 38378685) [PubMed] [DOI] [Full text] In mice, periodic cycles of a fasting mimicking diet (FMD) protect normal cells while killing damaged cells including cancer and autoimmune cells, reduce inflammation, promote multi-system regeneration, and extend longevity. Here, we performed secondary and exploratory analysis of blood samples from a randomized clinical trial (NCT02158897) and show that 3 FMD cycles in adult study participants are associated with reduced insulin resistance and other pre-diabetes markers, lower hepatic fat (as determined by magnetic resonance imaging) and increased lymphoid to myeloid ratio: an indicator of immune system age. Based on a validated measure of biological age predictive of morbidity and mortality, 3 FMD cycles were associated with a decrease of 2.5 years in median biological age, independent of weight loss. Nearly identical findings resulted from a second clinical study (NCT04150159). Together these results provide initial support for beneficial effects of the FMD on multiple cardiometabolic risk factors and biomarkers of biological age.

[pmid38378685-1] Brandhorst S et al.: Fasting-mimicking diet causes hepatic and blood markers changes indicating reduced biological age and disease risk. Nat Commun 2024. (PMID 38378685) [PubMed] [DOI] [Full text] In mice, periodic cycles of a fasting mimicking diet (FMD) protect normal cells while killing damaged cells including cancer and autoimmune cells, reduce inflammation, promote multi-system regeneration, and extend longevity. Here, we performed secondary and exploratory analysis of blood samples from a randomized clinical trial (NCT02158897) and show that 3 FMD cycles in adult study participants are associated with reduced insulin resistance and other pre-diabetes markers, lower hepatic fat (as determined by magnetic resonance imaging) and increased lymphoid to myeloid ratio: an indicator of immune system age. Based on a validated measure of biological age predictive of morbidity and mortality, 3 FMD cycles were associated with a decrease of 2.5 years in median biological age, independent of weight loss. Nearly identical findings resulted from a second clinical study (NCT04150159). Together these results provide initial support for beneficial effects of the FMD on multiple cardiometabolic risk factors and biomarkers of biological age.

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