In a 2017 clinical trial, 100 volunteers were given fasting mimicking diet (FMD) foods for five consecutive days per month for three months, with unrestricted diet and exercise in between, to evaluate the impact of FMD on markers and/or risk factors associated with aging and age-related diseases after FMD cycles. 

The study found that three FMD cycles reduced body weight, trunk, and total body fat; lowered blood pressure; and decreased IGF-1 in all subjects. BMI, blood pressure, fasting glucose, IGF-1, triglycerides, total and LDL cholesterol, and CRP were more beneficially affected in those at risk for disease than those not at risk.

The study also concluded that cycles of a five-day FMD are effective in reducing markers and/or risk factors for aging and age-related diseases.

However, larger studies in patients with diagnosed diseases or selected on the basis of risk factors are needed to confirm the effect of fasting mimicking diets on disease prevention.

The benefits of the fasting mimicking diet are many: It can help patients manage body weight, remove harmful toxins, and challenge the body’s stress response pathways.

Using a specific combination of low protein, carbohydrates and sugars, and high fat, the FMD can downregulate the body’s key nutrient-sensing pathways, while still providing essential nourishment.

The FMD protocol can help with weight management and body composition, as well as improving insulin sensitivity and lowering A1C levels. People with elevated cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure will probably see decreases. In addition, the fasting mimicking diet may also help reduce risk factors for aging and age-related diseases.

The fasting mimicking diet is versatile and collaborative. A suggested protocol is FMD for five days once a month for three months, then five days once every three months going forward.

During the non-fasting times, patients follow whatever healthy diet plan works best for them.