A new study published in February, showed promising results from the fasting mimicking diet (FMD) on the aging process. Valter Longo is a renowned researcher in the field of anti-aging through his fasting methods. 

Previous findings show increased lifespan in mice as well as improved skin health in humans. FMD 5 days once a month for three months in 45 women 35-60 years for 71 days showed a significant increase in skin hydration (25%), smoothness, even skin tone. There was also an increase in feelings of happiness and self-confidence among the women.

FMD reduces biological age

100 men and women between the ages 18 and 70 yrs participated in the new study, which looked at results from two clinical intervention populations. Those who were randomized to FMD protocol followed the diet for 5 days in 3-4 monthly cycles, and ate a normal diet for 25 days. 

The results showed that cycles of the fasting mimicking diet had the ability to reduce signs of immune system aging and lower diabetes risk factors, such as insulin resistance and HbA1c. They also had decreased abdominal and liver fat. 

Specific measurements showed that the participants’ biological age was reduced by 2,5 years on average. 

According to Valter Longo: “This is the first study to show that a food-based intervention that does not require chronic dietary or other lifestyle changes can make people biologically younger, based on both changes in risk factors for aging and disease…”.

What is FMD?

The FMD is a five-day diet high in unsaturated fatty acids and low in carbohydrates, proteins and calories but still providing the micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) needed. The FMD is designed to mimic the effects of a water-only fast, but is easier to stick to, as some foods are consumed, as opposed to no food on the water-only fast. 

Valter Longo has been studying FMD for many years and some of his and his team’s earlier findings include the promotion of stem cell regeneration, reducing some side effects from chemotherapy as well as improved metabolic markers. 

Final words

The effects of fasting on health and the aging process is well known. When we paus from eating and letting the body rest from food, our cells get the chance to repair themselves. The cells clean themselves through a process called autophagy, oxidative stress is reduced and blood sugar levels drop. All of these processes are associated with improved health and increased longevity. 

Sources

• Brandhorst et.al. (Longo V) Fasting-mimicking diet causes hepatic and blood markers changes indicating reduced biological age and disease risk. Nature Communications, 2024; 15 (1) DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45260-9
• Maloh et.al. The Effects of a Fasting Mimicking Diet on Skin Hydration, Skin Texture, and Skin Assessment: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12(5), 1710; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12051710