A Fasting-Style Diet: Enhancing Health and Slowing Aging
A new study conducted by esteemed researchers suggests that adhering to a fasting-style diet may bring about numerous benefits, including a lowered risk of disease and slower cell aging. This innovative diet, known as fasting-mimicking diet (FMD), aims to mimic the effects of a water-only fast while providing the necessary nutrients to the body.
Understanding the Fasting-Mimicking Diet
The FMD involves a controlled reduction in food consumption through the consumption of proportioned plant-based soups, energy bars, crisps, teas, vitamins, and mineral supplements spread across five days. This uniquely designed diet is high in unsaturated fats and low in calories, protein, and carbohydrates.
Groundbreaking Research Findings
Conducted by researchers from the University of Southern California (USC), the Yale School of Medicine, and AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology in Italy, two clinical studies were carried out involving a total of 144 volunteers. The results were astonishing.
The researchers found that individuals who followed the FMD experienced reduced insulin resistance (linked to diabetes), decreased liver fat, and slower immune system aging. These factors, combined, contribute to a lower biological age and a reduced risk of disease.
Gerontologist Valter Longo, from USC, expressed his excitement, stating, “This study shows for the first time evidence for biological age reduction from two different clinical trials, accompanied by evidence of rejuvenation of metabolic and immune function.”
The participants who diligently adhered to the FMD demonstrated a median biological age 2.5 years younger than individuals in the other groups. The biological age is a measurement of cellular wear and tear and how effectively cells function in relation to an individual’s actual age.
Importantly, the health improvements were not solely attributed to associated weight loss. The benefits exceeded beyond shedding weight, indicating something more profound occurring, which shall be explored in future studies.
Valter Longo further reinforced the significance of the research, stating, “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.”
Expanding the Scope of FMD
While the health benefits of FMD are not entirely new, as a previous study in mice displayed its effectiveness in reducing the signs of dementia, this current research further solidifies its potential. Additionally, it appears that FMD may also bear potential in tackling obesity.
The researchers are now actively advocating for the promotion of FMD as an integral part of a healthy lifestyle. However, it is crucial to consult with a medical professional or healthcare provider before enacting any significant dietary changes.
Valter Longo emphasized this sentiment, stating, “These findings should encourage many more healthcare professionals to recommend FMD cycles to patients with higher than desired levels of disease risk factors, as well as to the general population interested in increased function and younger age.”
The research detailing the remarkable effects of FMD has been published in the prestigious scientific journal, Nature Communications.
