Live, Fast and Don’t Die Young

What is a fasting-mimicking diet? 

The fasting-mimicking diet, or FMD, is a concept developed by Professor Valter Longo and researchers at the University of Southern California. The team have carried out extensive research into the impacts of fasting on health and lifespan. FMDs provide the benefits of water-only fasting but with a specially designed, plant-based diet plan that doesn’t trigger nutrient sensing pathways. Essentially this tricks the body into a fasted state. The FMD is comprised of plant-based soups, whole food bars, snacks, drinks and tea portioned out for five days. It also includes supplements providing vital vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids. The provision of specifically designed plant-based meals and supplements means that the body still receives essential nutrients whilst remaining in a fasted state.

What are the benefits? 

FMDs are the result of two decades of research and millions of dollars of federal funding in the USA. In studies, FMDs reduced risk factors for ageing and diseases including diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer. Benefits include reduced visceral fat and levels of systemic inflammation. Prolonged fasting has been shown to induce autophagy – a process that helps to maintain healthy cellular function. During autophagy, cells repair, regenerate and rid themselves of debris. 

A recent USC study found that cycles of a FMD reduced signs of immune system ageing as well as reducing insulin resistance and liver fat in humans, resulting in a lower biological age. ‘This study shows first-time evidence for biological age reduction from two different clinical trials, accompanied by evidence of rejuvenation of metabolic and immune function,’ said Professor Longo, senior author of the study.

I worked on the UK launch of ProLon back in 2017 and spent time with the research team at the University of Southern California who carried out this study. I was fascinated by the profound findings of their research. Never before had I come across a dietary plan with such extensive research demonstrating its benefits to human health and lifespan. 

How do you carry out the diet?

For healthy individuals it is recommended that three individual five-day FMD cycles are completed over three months, with 25 days off between each cycle. After the initial three cycles, it is recommended that three cycles are completed per year on an ongoing basis.

ProLon is the world’s first fasting mimicking diet. The five-day plan comes simply packaged, providing a clear meal plan and individual boxes of food for each day. 

Who is the diet good for?

I recommend FMDs to clients looking to improve their metabolic health, promote longevity and kickstart weight loss. FMDs provide the health and cellular regeneration benefits of water-only fasting but without having to give up food altogether. For many individuals, a programme which allows food can seem less daunting compared with consuming water alone for several days. 

Who should avoid it?

It is important to note that fasting is not right for everyone. Anyone with an active infection or disease, a history of syncope (fainting), those taking regular medication and pregnant women should not fast unless specifically recommended to by a qualified and experienced practitioner. Although research has demonstrated that fasting can help improve blood sugar regulation, fasting should not be recommended to medicated diabetics due to the risk of blood sugar levels dropping too low. FMDs cannot be done by individuals who are allergic to the ingredients in the programme which include nuts and soya. Fasting is not recommended for anyone with an eating disorder.

Kim Pearson is L’OFFICIEL IBIZA’s wellness editor. A qualified nutritionist with almost two decades’ experience, she specialises in weight loss, metabolic health and longevity. In addition to heading up her UK team of nutritionists, Kim is the clinical director of RoseBar Longevity Club, based within Six Senses Ibiza. 

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