Researchers from the University of Southern California report that a fasting-mimicking diet (FMD) may slow biological aging and support overall health. The findings were published in Nature Communications, highlighting the potential of this dietary pattern to influence key aging-related processes and disease risk in humans.
The fasting-mimicking diet is a five-day plan low in calories and enriched with healthy fats. It emphasizes a reduction in protein and carbohydrate intake to simulate the metabolic effects of fasting while still supplying essential nutrients. The approach leans on lean foods, vegetable soups, energy bars and drinks, light snacks, and tea to create a palatable, doable regimen that preserves energy and mineral balance during the fasting-mimicking window.
In the study, two groups of adults aged 18 to 70 participated. One group followed the FMD for five days, then returned to their usual eating pattern for 25 days, continuing this cycle over a period of three to four months. The comparison group did not undertake the diet. The researchers tracked biological aging markers and compared them with baseline measurements taken before the intervention began.
Results showed a measurable decline in biological age among those following the FMD, averaging about 2.5 years younger than at baseline. This shift correlated with indicators of lowered risk for metabolic disorders such as diabetes, liver fat accumulation, and insulin resistance, along with improvements in aspects of immune function. While the health benefits observed are encouraging, the researchers note that long-term outcomes and applicability across diverse populations warrant further study.
Beyond human studies, animal research supports the potential advantages of fasting-mimicking patterns. In preclinical models, a fasting-mimicking approach appears to promote the clearance of damaged cells, including some cancerous cells, and to support regenerative processes. These findings add to a growing body of evidence suggesting that intermittent, carefully structured dietary patterns can influence cellular health and organismal aging in meaningful ways.
Earlier work in this area has drawn attention to the risks associated with excessive protein intake and unbalanced nutrition, underscoring the importance of nutritional quality and monitoring when adopting any fasting-mimicking regimen. Professionals emphasize personalized guidance, especially for individuals with chronic conditions, pregnancy, or unique dietary needs, to ensure safety and efficacy while pursuing potential longevity and health benefits.