A groundbreaking study led by the University of South California Leonard Davis School of Gerontology suggests that a new fasting-mimicking diet (FMD) could potentially reverse biological aging and significantly reduce risk factors for various diseases.
Developed by Prof. Valter Longo and his team, the FMD involves a five-day dietary regimen high in unsaturated fats and low in overall calories, protein, and carbohydrates. This fasting-like diet aims to mimic the effects of a water-only fast while providing essential nutrients, making it a more manageable approach for individuals.
During the five-day fasting period, participants were provided with specified portions of plant-based soups, energy bars, energy drinks, chip snacks, and tea, along with supplements to ensure adequate intake of vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids.
Previous research has demonstrated several health benefits of the FMD, including promoting stem cell regeneration, reducing chemotherapy side effects, and diminishing signs of dementia in animal models. The recent study focused on evaluating the effects of the FMD on immune system aging, insulin resistance, liver fat, and biological age in humans.
The study analyzed two groups of men and women aged 18 to 70 who underwent 3-4 monthly cycles of the FMD, followed by a normal diet for 25 days. Results showed promising outcomes, with participants experiencing reduced diabetes risk factors, including lower insulin resistance and average blood sugar levels.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a decrease in abdominal and liver fat, indicating a reduced risk of metabolic syndrome. Additionally, FMD cycles appeared to rejuvenate the immune system.
According to Longo, the study’s results were particularly compelling as they utilized various measures to assess biological age, including blood markers predictive of mortality, insulin resistance, liver fat, and immune system aging profile.
Analysis of the data showed that FMD participants reduced their biological age by an average of 2.5 years, indicating improved cellular and tissue function. Longo emphasized that this is the first study demonstrating that a food-based intervention, without requiring chronic dietary changes, can effectively make people biologically younger.
Longo hopes these findings will encourage more healthcare professionals to recommend FMD cycles to patients with elevated disease risk factors and individuals interested in enhancing their health and vitality. He suggests that healthy individuals aged 20 to 70 consider trying FMD two to three times a year but advises caution for those with certain medical conditions, particularly those taking diabetes medications.
As research continues to unveil the potential of the FMD in promoting health and longevity, Longo believes it holds promise as a practical and effective dietary intervention for individuals seeking to improve their overall well-being and potentially reverse biological aging.