*By Dr Devan

The Fasting Mimicking Diet (FMD) has been studied not only for longevity and metabolic health, but also for its neurological benefits. Much of this comes from Dr. Valter Longo’s research at USC, along with other animal and human studies.

Here’s a structum:

Neurological Benefits of Fasting Mimicking Diet (FMD)

1. Neuroprotection & Reduced Neuroinflammation

FMD lowers inflammatory markers (IL-6, TNF-α, CRP), which reduces chronic neuroinflammation linked to Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and MS.

In animal studies, FMD cycles reduced autoimmune-driven demyelination in models of multiple sclerosis (MS) and promoted remyelination.

Human pilot studies in MS patients showed improvements in quality of life and symptoms after FMD cycles.

2. Enhanced Neurogenesis (Brain Cell Regeneration)

FMD activates stem cell–based regeneration in the brain.

Cycles of fasting → refeeding stimulate neural progenitor cells, leading to new neuron formation (neurogenesis).

This effect is most pronounced in the hippocampus (critical for memory and learning).

3. Cognitive Function & Memory

In mouse models of Alzheimer’s disease, FMD reduced amyloid beta plaques and tau pathology, leading to improved learning and memory performance.

Human pilot trials suggest that FMD cycles improve cognitive flexibility, executive function, and memory recall in middle-aged and older adults.

4. Metabolic Support for the Brain

FMD promotes ketone body production (β-hydroxybutyrate), which provides an alternative fuel to glucose.

Ketones improve mitochondrial efficiency, reduce oxidative stress, and enhance synaptic function.

This is especially beneficial in neurodegenerative disorders where glucose metabolism is impaired.

5. Autophagy & Cellular Cleanup

FMD induces autophagy in neurons — the process of clearing damaged proteins and organelles.

This helps remove toxic aggregates (like amyloid, alpha-synuclein) that drive Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

Enhances synaptic plasticity, which supports learning.

6. Mood and Anxiety Benefits

Ketones, BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), and reduced inflammation are linked to better mood regulation.

Animal studies show reduced anxiety and depressive-like behavior after fasting cycles.

Human data are still limited but trending positive.

7. Stroke & Ischemia Protection

FMD has been shown in animal models to increase resilience to ischemic brain injury, reducing neuron death and improving recovery.

Mechanisms: improved mitochondrial function, autophagy, reduced excitotoxicity.

Human Evidence So Far

Multiple Sclerosis pilot study (Choi et al., 2016): FMD improved symptoms and quality of life.

Alzheimer’s mouse models (Brandhorst et al., 2015; Rangan et al., 2020): reduced amyloid/tau, improved cognition.

Healthy adults (Wei et al., 2017): FMD cycles reduced IGF-1, blood pressure, fasting glucose, and improved subjective cognitive clarity.

Key Neurological Mechanisms

↓ Inflammation (systemic + neural)

↑ BDNF (supports synaptic plasticity, memory)

↑ Ketones (neuroprotective fuel)

↑ Autophagy (removes damaged proteins)

↑ Stem cell–driven regeneration

↓ Neurotoxic aggregates (amyloid, tau, alpha-synuclein)

Bottom Line:

The Fasting Mimicking Diet is emerging as a powerful non-pharmacological tool for protecting the brain, slowing neurodegeneration, improving cognition, and even aiding regeneration. While human trials are still early, results are very promising, especially for Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and MS.

*Dr Devan is a Mangaluru-based ENT specialist and author.

Hindusthan Samachar / Manohar Yadavatti