Both the fasting-mimicking diet (FMD) and keto achieve some overlapping health benefits through partially shared mechanisms. But they are fundamentally different approaches.
Developed by Dr Valter Longo at USC, the FMD involves eating a precisely calibrated very-low-calorie diet (~800 kcal/day) with specific macronutrient ratios for 5 days per month. The body is “tricked” into mimicking the biological state of fasting without total food abstention.
A daily dietary pattern restricting carbohydrates to induce and maintain ketosis. Not calorie-restricted by default.
Both trigger autophagy, reduce insulin and IGF-1, lower inflammation, and produce ketones. Both show benefits for metabolic syndrome and longevity markers.
FMD is intermittent (5 days/month) and calorie-restricted. Keto is continuous and not calorie-restricted. FMD allows some carbohydrates; keto does not. FMD requires cycling; keto is a lifestyle.
Some practitioners do an FMD protocol monthly while following keto the rest of the time. During and after the FMD, keto-compatible foods from our keto beverages and keto breakfast collection ease the transition.