Researchers have discovered that a low-salt, fasting-mimicking diet (FMD) may slow kidney deterioration in patients with stage 3 chronic kidney disease, with supporting evidence from animal studies.
A recent study included 13 participants who followed the diet over three months and found significant improvements in kidney function and inflammation markers. Animal models on the diet showed reduced kidney damage and slowed deterioration of kidney function.
The FMD is a plant-based diet that aims to mimic the effects of fasting while still allowing some food intake.
The diet is nutrient-rich and high in fat (70 percent to 75 percent of calories) but low in calories (around 700 per day) and low in carbohydrates (under 50 grams). It is typically followed for five-day cycles under medical supervision, especially for those with health conditions or who are on medications….