
The Fasting Mimicking Diet (FMD) is a five-day, low-calorie diet designed to trick the body into fasting mode while still providing essential nutrients. The ProLon diet is a commercially available FMD program that offers a pre-packaged meal plan. However, due to the financial commitment required by the ProLon diet, some people opt for a do-it-yourself (DIY) approach to the FMD. A DIY FMD plan allows for more flexibility in meal choices but requires careful planning and execution to maximize its benefits and minimize potential downsides. It is important to consult a doctor before starting an FMD program, especially for those with pre-existing health conditions or who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Duration | 5 days |
| Frequency | Once every 25 days for 3 months |
| Calorie intake | 500-600 calories per day |
| Macronutrient composition | Low-carb, moderate protein, high healthy fat |
| Meal choices | More flexibility with DIY FMD |
| Cost | $250 for 5 days with ProLon |
| Preparation | Requires careful planning and execution |
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What You'll Learn
- The ProLon diet kit is the only fasting mimicking diet on the market
- Fasting-mimicking diets are low-calorie diets designed to trick your body into fasting mode
- The FMD is a five-day dietary program that mimics the metabolic effects of fasting
- The FMD is not intended to be a daily regimen but to support a healthy lifestyle
- Consult a doctor before starting an FMD, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions

The ProLon diet kit is the only fasting mimicking diet on the market
The ProLon diet kit is the only fasting-mimicking meal program currently undergoing clinical trials. The program is based on 25 years of diligent research and has been clinically tested and proven. It is a scientifically formulated 5-day program designed to mimic a 5-day water fast while providing nutrients and calories. The diet aims to provide the benefits of fasting while minimising negative side effects such as fatigue and headaches. The kit provides all the food you need for the 5-day plan, including meals and snacks, and is designed to be repeated once a month for at least three months.
The ProLon diet kit is a convenient option for those who want to try a fasting-mimicking diet. The kit includes everything you need for the 5-day cycle, with pre-packaged and easy-to-prepare foods that are labelled by day so you know what to eat each day. The foods include soups, bars, crackers, olives, and herbal teas, as well as dietary supplements packed with multivitamins, amino acids, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids.
While it is possible to do a do-it-yourself (DIY) version of the fasting-mimicking diet, it is important to note that it will not be the same as the ProLon kit. The ProLon kit has been specially formulated with specific ingredients and calorie counts to maximise the desired autophagic effects. Melanie G. Murphy Richter, a registered dietitian nutritionist and director of communications for L-Nutra (the company that owns ProLon), warns that a DIY approach may not be safe or effective. She states that it is difficult to ensure that a person's composition of nutrients is precise and that there is a greater risk of failing to meet your nutrient needs when doing a DIY diet.
However, for those who prefer to eat real food or are concerned about the cost of the ProLon kit, a DIY approach may be an option. There are resources available online that provide guidance on how to create your own 5-day fasting-mimicking diet plan, including suggestions for foods to eat and how to calculate macronutrient ratios. It is important to note that a DIY plan has not been tested and certified like the ProLon diet, and it may require more planning and work. Consulting a medical professional before starting any fasting regimen is always recommended.
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Fasting-mimicking diets are low-calorie diets designed to trick your body into fasting mode
Fasting-mimicking diets (FMDs) are low-calorie diets designed to trick your body into fasting mode. They are typically structured, five-day, vegan, low-protein diets with specific calorie counts and ratios of fat, protein, and carbohydrates (macronutrients). The FMD is designed to be followed for five days and then take a break from it for the next 25 days, repeating this cycle for three months.
The FMD is based on Dr. Valter Longo's research, who is a biogerontologist and cell biologist at the University of Southern California. The diet aims to provide the benefits of fasting while still consuming food. Fasting is known to provide several health benefits, such as improved weight management, a lower risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, and a reduced risk of cancer.
The ProLon diet is a commercially available FMD program that offers a pre-packaged meal plan. It includes individual portions of soups, energy bars, snacks, herbal teas, and supplements, formulated to meet the FMD's macronutrient ratios. The ProLon diet is clinically tested and proven, providing convenience and variety. However, it can be costly, and some prefer to create their own FMD plan.
A DIY FMD plan requires careful planning and execution to maximize its benefits and minimize potential risks. It is crucial to consult a doctor before starting an FMD to ensure it is suitable for your individual health status, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking medication. When creating a DIY FMD plan, it is essential to plan meals meticulously to ensure you meet the required macronutrient ratios and calorie counts.
Some tips for a DIY FMD include shopping ahead of time and repeating certain meals, such as soups and snacks, to save money. It is important to note that a DIY FMD may not perfectly replicate the ProLon diet, and there is a risk of failing to meet your nutrient needs if not carefully planned.
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The FMD is a five-day dietary program that mimics the metabolic effects of fasting
The Fasting Mimicking Diet (FMD) is a structured, 5-day, low-calorie, vegan, low-protein diet with specific calorie counts and ratios of fat, protein, and carbohydrates (macronutrients). It is designed to be done for 5 days, followed by 25 days off, for 3 months. The FMD is based on Dr. Valter Longo's research, who is a biogerontologist and cell biologist at the University of Southern California.
The FMD is designed to trick the body into thinking it is fasting while still providing essential nutrients. It is a prolonged fast of restricted calories, typically lasting 4 to 7 consecutive days, that aims to induce a metabolic switch. During a fast, the body's glucose stores are depleted, prompting it to use fat reserves for energy. This metabolic switch can lead to cellular rejuvenation and improved health markers, including potential benefits for cardiovascular health, metabolic function, and cognitive function.
The ProLon diet is a commercially available FMD program that provides a pre-packaged meal plan. It includes individual portions of soups, energy bars, snacks, herbal teas, and supplements, formulated to meet the FMD's macronutrient ratios. The ProLon diet is clinically tested and proven, offering convenience and no calorie counting or shopping. However, it can be a financial commitment, with five days of food costing up to $250.
A DIY approach to the FMD allows for more flexibility in meal choices within the guidelines. It requires careful planning and execution to maximize benefits and minimize potential downsides. It is important to consult a doctor before starting the FMD to ensure it is suitable for your individual health status and discuss any pre-existing medical conditions, medications, or other factors. For those new to fasting, it is recommended to start with shorter fasting windows to assess tolerance before attempting the FMD.
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The FMD is not intended to be a daily regimen but to support a healthy lifestyle
The Fasting Mimicking Diet (FMD) is a five-day low-calorie diet designed to trick the body into fasting mode while still providing essential nutrients. It is not meant to be a daily regimen but rather an occasional intervention to support a healthy lifestyle. The FMD is typically followed by a period of normal eating, with the frequency of FMD cycles depending on individual needs and goals.
The FMD is based on Dr. Valter Longo's research and involves a structured, five-day, vegan, low-protein diet with specific calorie counts and ratios of fat, protein, and carbohydrates (macronutrients). The diet is designed to be followed for five days and then stopped for 25 days, repeating this cycle for three months. This intermittent approach allows for a balance between restricted and normal eating, recognising that prolonged fasting is not suitable for everyone.
The FMD is not intended as a daily diet because it is restrictive and may not meet all nutrient requirements for long-term health. It is important to consult a doctor or healthcare professional before starting the FMD, especially for those with pre-existing health conditions, as it may not be safe or suitable for everyone. Additionally, the FMD requires careful planning and preparation to ensure it is done correctly and to minimise potential risks.
The FMD is designed as a short-term intervention to support overall health and well-being. It has been shown to have benefits for cardiovascular health, metabolic function, and cognitive function. It can also promote moderate weight loss, especially when combined with a healthy lifestyle, and enhance cellular rejuvenation by stimulating cellular repair mechanisms similar to those during a complete fast.
While the FMD is not a daily regimen, it can be a powerful tool for those seeking to improve their health and support their lifestyle choices. It is important to approach the FMD with caution and to ensure it is suitable for one's individual needs and health status.
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Consult a doctor before starting an FMD, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions
The Fasting Mimicking Diet (FMD) is a structured, 5-day, low-calorie, vegan, low-protein diet with specific calorie counts and ratios of fat, protein, and carbohydrates (macronutrients). It is designed to be practised for 5 days, followed by 25 days off, for 3 months.
While the FMD can be done as a DIY plan, it is crucial to consult a doctor before starting, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions, are pregnant, or breastfeeding. This is because the FMD requires careful planning and execution to maximize its benefits and minimize potential risks. A doctor can help determine if the FMD is suitable for your individual health status, taking into account any medications or other factors.
For example, if you are on medication, have health issues, or are allergic to nuts or soy, it is essential to seek medical advice first. Prolonged fasts are not suitable for everyone, and a doctor can help assess your tolerance, especially if you are new to fasting. They can also review your proposed menu to ensure it meets your specific nutritional needs.
Additionally, the FMD may not be suitable for those with certain pre-existing health conditions. For instance, if you have a condition that requires a specific diet, such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease, it is important to consult a doctor to ensure the FMD aligns with your dietary needs. Furthermore, individuals with eating disorders or a history of disordered eating should approach the FMD with caution and seek professional guidance before starting.
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Frequently asked questions
A DIY fasting-mimicking diet is a do-it-yourself version of the ProLon fasting-mimicking diet. The ProLon diet is a commercially available meal program that includes all the food you need for five days in specific quantities and ratios. The DIY version allows you to create your own meal plan and cook your own food, potentially saving money.
A fasting-mimicking diet is a low-calorie, low-carbohydrate, and low-protein diet designed to trick your body into a fasting state while still providing essential nutrients. It is typically followed for five consecutive days, once a month, for three months.
A fasting-mimicking diet can lead to weight loss, improved metabolic health, and reduced risk of developing Type 2 diabetes and cancer. It may also trigger cellular repair and improve insulin sensitivity.
Yes, a fasting-mimicking diet may not be suitable for everyone. People with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, may experience negative effects on blood sugar levels. It is important to consult a doctor or dietitian before starting a fasting-mimicking diet to ensure it is safe for you.
To create a DIY fasting-mimicking diet plan, you can use resources such as books, online articles, and mobile applications to determine the specific calorie counts and ratios of fat, protein, and carbohydrates to include in your meals. Preparation is key, so it is recommended to plan and prepare your meals in advance.











































