Researchers looked at studies about special diets that trick your body into thinking it’s fasting, even though you’re still eating some food. Scientists believe these diets might change how cancer cells work and grow. This review examined multiple studies to see if this approach could be a helpful tool alongside regular cancer treatments. While the early research looks promising, scientists say we need more testing in people before we know if it really works as a cancer-fighting strategy.

The Quick Take

  • What they studied: Whether special diets that mimic fasting (eating very little for short periods) could change how cancer cells behave and potentially help cancer treatment work better
  • Who participated: This was a review of multiple published studies rather than a single study with participants. Researchers looked at existing research to find patterns and conclusions
  • Key finding: Several studies suggest that fasting-mimicking diets may change cancer cell metabolism (how cancer cells get energy), which could make them more vulnerable to treatment, though human studies are still limited
  • What it means for you: This research is still early-stage. If you or someone you know has cancer, talk to your doctor before trying any fasting diet. These diets might be helpful someday, but they’re not proven treatments yet

The Research Details

This was a systematic review, which means researchers searched through published scientific studies and carefully analyzed what they found. They looked for studies about fasting-mimicking diets and cancer to see what the evidence shows. A systematic review is like reading many research papers and finding the common themes and strongest evidence.

The researchers examined how these special diets work in the body and whether they might help fight cancer. Fasting-mimicking diets are different from regular fasting—instead of eating nothing, you eat very small amounts of food (usually very low in calories) for short periods. This tricks your body into some of the same changes that happen during regular fasting.

By reviewing multiple studies together, scientists can get a bigger picture of whether something works, rather than relying on just one study. This approach helps identify what we know for sure and what we still need to learn.

A systematic review is important because it brings together all the available research on one topic. Instead of one small study, you’re looking at the combined evidence from many studies. This helps doctors and patients understand what science really shows about a treatment idea. It also helps identify gaps in research where we need more studies.

This review was published in a respected nutrition science journal, which means it went through expert review. However, the quality of the findings depends on the quality of the studies reviewed. Since this is a newer area of research, there may not be many large human studies yet. The review likely included both strong studies and weaker ones. Readers should know that most evidence probably comes from lab studies and animal studies, with fewer studies in actual people.

What the Results Show

The research suggests that fasting-mimicking diets may change how cancer cells work at a basic level. Cancer cells normally use a lot of glucose (sugar) for energy, and these diets might limit that energy source. When cancer cells can’t get enough energy the way they normally do, they may become weaker or more vulnerable to cancer treatments.

Several studies showed that fasting-mimicking diets might make cancer cells respond better to chemotherapy and radiation. The idea is that by changing the environment around cancer cells, treatments might work more effectively. Some research also suggested these diets might help protect healthy cells from damage during cancer treatment.

However, most of this evidence comes from laboratory studies and animal research. There are fewer studies in actual cancer patients, which is why scientists are cautious about recommending this approach right now. The studies that do exist in people are small and often look at whether the diet is safe, rather than whether it actually helps fight cancer.

The review also found that fasting-mimicking diets appear to be generally safe and well-tolerated when done under medical supervision. Some studies suggested these diets might help with side effects of cancer treatment, like fatigue or weight loss. Additionally, research indicates these diets might help improve overall metabolic health in people with cancer, though more evidence is needed.

This research builds on earlier studies about fasting and cancer. Scientists have known for years that regular fasting might affect cancer cells differently than healthy cells. This review specifically looks at fasting-mimicking diets, which are easier for most people to follow than complete fasting. The findings fit with what we know about how cancer cells use energy, but this is a newer and more specific approach than previous research.

The biggest limitation is that most evidence comes from lab and animal studies, not from large numbers of cancer patients. We don’t yet have enough human studies to say for certain that these diets help fight cancer. The studies reviewed may have different methods and quality levels, making it hard to compare results. Additionally, we don’t know if these diets work equally well for all types of cancer or all types of people. More research in actual patients is needed before doctors can recommend this as a standard treatment.

The Bottom Line

Based on current evidence: Do NOT use fasting-mimicking diets as a replacement for standard cancer treatment. If you’re interested in trying this approach alongside your regular treatment, discuss it with your oncologist (cancer doctor) first. The evidence is promising enough to study further, but not strong enough yet to recommend as a primary treatment. Confidence level: Low to Moderate for potential benefit; more research needed.

Cancer patients and their families should be aware of this research, but should not make treatment decisions based on it alone. People interested in nutrition and cancer prevention might find this interesting. Healthcare providers treating cancer should stay informed about emerging research. People with other health conditions should not assume these diets will help them without medical guidance.

If this approach eventually becomes a standard treatment, it would likely take 5-10 more years of research. Benefits, if they occur, would probably develop over weeks to months of consistent use alongside other treatments. This is not a quick fix—it would be part of a longer treatment plan.

Want to Apply This Research?

  • Track daily calorie intake and meal timing if attempting a fasting-mimicking diet under doctor supervision. Log energy levels, appetite, and any side effects daily to share with your healthcare team
  • Work with your doctor to plan specific eating windows and calorie targets for fasting-mimicking periods. Use the app to set reminders for eating and drinking water, and to log how you feel during and after fasting periods
  • Monitor weight, energy levels, and treatment side effects weekly. Track any changes in how you feel during cancer treatment. Share all data with your healthcare team at regular appointments to assess whether the diet is helping or causing problems

This research is preliminary and should not be used to make cancer treatment decisions. Fasting-mimicking diets are not proven cancer treatments. Anyone with cancer must work with their oncologist before starting any new diet or supplement. This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Do not stop or change cancer treatment based on this research. Always consult your healthcare team before making dietary changes, especially if you have cancer, are undergoing treatment, or have other health conditions.