What is the Fasting Mimicking Diet?
March 22, 2019 By Dr. Kelly Barrett
Want to get the benefits of fasting without actually fasting?
Let me introduce you to the FMD, a type of modified fasting. This approach is easier to comply with than water-only fasting, as it allows our body to stay nourished with nutrients and electrolytes.
FMD was developed by Dr. Valter Longo , a professor of biological sciences and the director of the USC Longevity Institute. His approach is a low calorie, low protein diet that causes changes in markers (insulin-growth factor, glucose and ketones) associated with stress resistance and longevity in a manner similar to water-only fasting.
One FMD cycle typically lasts for 3-5 days/month. This can be repeated 3-12 times/year, depending on the individual and the condition. In between cycles, you resume your typical eating patterns.
FMD may help to
Decrease visceral fat
Improve fasting glucose
Improve autoimmune disease
Slow the aging process
improve cognitive function
Good candidates include:
People trying to lose weight
Those with Type 2 diabetes, or other metabolic disorders
People with neurological issues
Those who have cognitive disorders
Those with immune dysregulation
People striving for optimal health and longevity
People who should NOT consider FMD:
Pregnant/lactating women
Children/teens
People with eating disorders
Those with Adrenal dysregulation
Need more information or interested in getting started on this program?
