#Dietscience

A wave of excitement has hit health and wellness circles following claims that a “fasting mimicking diet” (FMD) can help individuals lose stubborn belly fat in as little as five days. Recent headlines, like the one from First for Women, are stirring curiosity and hope among those looking for quick, effective, and sustainable weight loss solutions. But can this new dietary protocol truly deliver such dramatic results, or is it merely the latest fad to sweep social media?

A wave of curiosity has swept health circles as claims spread that a fasting mimicking diet (FMD) can reduce stubborn belly fat in as little as five days. Headlines from wellness outlets have sparked interest among readers seeking quick, sustainable weight loss. But can this approach deliver dramatic results, or is it just another social media fad?

To understand the buzz, it helps to know how FMD differs from traditional fasting. Developed by biogerontologist Dr. Valter Longo at a major U.S. university, FMD aims to imitate the effects of water-only fasting while allowing limited calories. Over five consecutive days, people follow a plant-based plan low in protein and sugar but high in healthy fats, keeping total calories far below normal intake. The goal is to trigger cellular repair and fat-burning processes without complete food abstention. According to research from Longo’s team, the program can simulate fasting without total fasting.