A fast-mimicking, or fasting-mimicking, diet copies fasting’s effects while allowing small portions of food.

Fasting is going without food or beverages for a certain period.

The fasting-mimicking diet is aplant-based dietthat is low in protein and carbohydrates but high in fat.

A person washing asparagus in a sink

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On the first day of the fast, you will consume more calories than the remaining four days.

Non-caffeinated herbal teas are also allowed.

Some fasting-mimicking diets allow for one cup of black coffee per day.

What to Avoid

Stick to a plant-based and anti-inflammatory diet while on the fasting-mimicking diet.

These include:

Is the FMD Diet Right for You?

One of the most popular types of fasting isintermittent fasting.

Water fastingis a fast in which you do not consume anything besides water.

Juice fasting consists of consuming only fruit or vegetable juices for a few days to weeks.

Allowed foods include vegetables, fruits, and plant-based foods with healthy fats.

Foods to be avoided include animal-based products, sugary foods, and high-starch foods like pasta.

There are both potential health benefits of a fasting-mimicking diet, as well as side effects.

While generally considered safe, a fasting-mimicking diet is not appropriate for certain people.

Consult a healthcare provider before trying it.

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