"Fake Fasting" Week at the ZIO
A Mindful Break for the Body
From October 2 to 6, 2026, the ZIO will host its first-ever Simulated Fasting Week. The program is designed for patients who have completed cancer treatment and is supported by nutritional counseling. Unlike traditional fasting, simulated fasting allows for food intake, though it is limited to a strictly plant-based diet with minimal protein and carbohydrates. Studies suggest that this can support cell regeneration and help counteract inflammatory processes, explains nutritionist Anina Fritschi, who initiated the program.
Anina Fritschi, what is simulated fasting, and how does it differ from «normal» fasting?
With simulated fasting, you don’t have to completely give up food. A limited intake of food is allowed, but it must be strictly plant-based and contain as little protein and carbohydrates as possible. That means: plenty of vegetables, along with plant-based fats from nuts or avocados. The body reacts similarly to normal fasting by tapping into fat reserves—such as those around the abdomen—to gain energy.
Why is this healthy?
Recent studies show that this type of fasting, limited to five days, has positive effects on our metabolism and cell regeneration and can help reduce inflammatory responses in the body. Simulated fasting offers the opportunity to consciously give the body time to regenerate after completing cancer treatment and to stimulate metabolic processes.
So you don't recommend simulated fasting during therapy, but rather after it?
That’s very important, yes. The program is not suitable for people who are malnourished, experiencing significant weight loss, or dealing with eating disorders; in our view, those would be exclusion criteria. In any case, we conduct an initial consultation with everyone who signs up, during which we discuss together whether simulated fasting is appropriate given their current state of health and individual needs.
How exactly does the "mock fasting" week work?
After the initial consultation, there is an introductory workshop with a maximum of 15 participants, during which we provide detailed information about simulated fasting and its associated effects. We’ll create a weekly plan with helpful tips and recipes you can try at home. Throughout the week, we’ll stay connected via a WhatsApp group so participants can share their experiences and get support from the nutrition counselor as needed.
Anina Fritschi works as a BSc SVDE-certified nutritionist at the Center for Integrative Oncology.
