Evaluation of Longevity Diet and Fasting Mimicking Diet Programs on Body Composition, Disease Risk Factors, and Aging Markers

This randomized clinical trial evaluates the effects of two promising nutritional strategies—Fasting Mimicking Diet (FMD) and the Longevity Diet (LD)—on health and aging outcomes in adults aged 30 to 65 years.

Study Design:

• Participants: 501 adults, randomized into 3 groups:

FMD group: 5-day meal program every 3 months.

FMD + LD group: FMD protocol plus adherence to the Longevity Diet for 6 months.

Control group: Continued their usual diet for 6 months.

• Primary Endpoint: Change in body fat percentage.
• Secondary Endpoints: Blood pressure, lipids, glucose, HbA1C, BMI, weight, cardiovascular and aging biomarkers, sleep quality, and medication use.

Fasting Mimicking Diet (FMD):

Plant-based meal kits mimicking fasting effects while supplying ~700–1000 kcal/day over 5 days.

Shown to reduce IGF-1, glucose, CRP, and abdominal fat in previous studies.

Longevity Diet (LD):

Inspired by traditional diets from longevity regions like Okinawa and Southern Italy.

Mostly plant-based with some fish, low in protein, rich in complex carbs and healthy fats.

Includes time-restricted eating (12-hour window).

Key Findings (to be assessed):

Reduction in fat mass, improved metabolic markers, and potential benefits to sleep and aging biomarkers.

Telomere length measurement included as an aging biomarker.

Oura Ring used in a subgroup to monitor sleep data.

Safety Monitoring:

Adverse events (AEs) and serious adverse events (SAEs) tracked throughout.

Regular monitoring of metabolic, cardiovascular, and inflammatory markers.

Scientific Rationale:

Built on 15 years of NIH-supported research at USC’s Longevity Institute, these diets aim to safely replicate fasting benefits to promote longevity and healthy aging without nutritional deprivation.

Study Sponsor: Regione Calabria, Italy
Lead Scientist: Dr. Valter Longo and collaborators

Source:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40176115/