Dr. Jason Fung vs Mark Hyman
Compare Jason Fung's protocol (Nephrologist & Fasting Advocate) with Mark Hyman's approach (Functional Medicine Physician & Author). Fung treats metabolic dysfunction primarily through fasting and insulin management, while Hyman addresses root causes through functional medicine, gut health, and food-as-medicine principles. Both target metabolic health as the foundation of chronic disease prevention but differ on whether fasting or comprehensive nutritional intervention is the primary lever.

Dr. Jason Fung
Nephrologist & Bestselling Author of The Obesity Code
A physician-developed fasting protocol focused on intermittent and extended fasting to lower insulin levels, reverse type 2 diabetes, and promote sustainable weight loss — emphasizing whole foods, natural fasting aids, and minimal supplementation.
14 products in protocol

Mark Hyman
Functional Medicine Physician & Author
A food-as-medicine protocol combining functional medicine principles with targeted supplementation, emphasizing gut health, blood sugar regulation, and anti-inflammatory nutrition.
15 products in protocol
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Dr. Jason Fung | Mark Hyman |
|---|---|---|
| Title | Nephrologist & Bestselling Author of The Obesity Code | Functional Medicine Physician & Author |
| Focus Areas | fastingdiabetesinsulin resistanceweight lossdiet | functional medicinenutritiongut healthsupplementsanti aging |
| Total Products | 6 | 9 |
| Shared Products | 3 products in common | |
| Protocol | A physician-developed fasting protocol focused on intermittent and extended fasting to lower insulin levels, reverse type 2 diabetes, and promote sustainable weight loss — emphasizing whole foods, natural fasting aids, and minimal supplementation. | A food-as-medicine protocol combining functional medicine principles with targeted supplementation, emphasizing gut health, blood sugar regulation, and anti-inflammatory nutrition. |
What They Agree On
Both Dr. Jason Fung and Mark Hyman include these 3 products in their protocols — a signal of strong evidence and broad expert consensus.
Magnesium (Threonate/Glycinate)
Highly bioavailable magnesium in threonate or glycinate form for superior absorption. Supports deep sleep quality, cognitive function, and nervous system relaxation. Magnesium threonate is particularly valued for its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier.
Magnesium (Threonate/Glycinate)
supplements
Vitamin D3 (5000 IU)
High-potency vitamin D3 supplement providing 5000 IU per serving to support optimal blood levels. Essential for immune function, bone health, and mood regulation. One of the most widely recommended supplements among longevity researchers due to widespread deficiency.
Vitamin D3 (5000 IU)
supplements
Green Tea (Matcha)
High-quality matcha green tea powder rich in EGCG catechins and L-theanine. Provides calm, sustained energy while delivering powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Regular green tea consumption is associated with reduced cardiovascular disease risk and improved metabolic health in population studies.
Green Tea (Matcha)
foods
Where They Differ
These products are unique to one protocol — reflecting each expert's distinct philosophy, research focus, and priorities.

Only in Dr. Jason Fung's Protocol
Apple Cider Vinegar
Raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar with the 'mother' culture. Research suggests it may help reduce blood sugar spikes after meals by slowing gastric emptying. Dr. Jason Fung recommends it as a fasting aid — a tablespoon or two in water can help suppress hunger and stimulate digestion when breaking a fast.
Bone Broth
Nutrient-dense broth made by simmering animal bones for extended periods. Rich in collagen, glycine, and minerals. Frequently recommended by Dr. Jason Fung as one of the best fasting aids — it provides electrolytes and a small amount of protein to ease hunger during extended fasts without significantly raising insulin.
Electrolyte Mix
Balanced electrolyte mix containing sodium, potassium, and magnesium to support hydration and cellular function. Essential for maintaining energy levels, muscle function, and cognitive performance, especially during fasting or exercise. Sugar-free formulas are preferred in longevity protocols.

Only in Mark Hyman's Protocol
Omega-3 Fish Oil (High EPA)
High-potency omega-3 fish oil supplement with elevated EPA content. Supports cardiovascular health, reduces systemic inflammation, and promotes healthy brain function and mood regulation.
Probiotics (Multi-Strain)
Multi-strain probiotic supplement containing diverse beneficial bacteria to support gut microbiome health. A balanced gut microbiome is linked to improved digestion, immune function, and mental well-being. Look for formulas with clinically studied strains and high CFU counts.
Glutathione (Liposomal)
Liposomal glutathione supplement for enhanced absorption of the body's master antioxidant. Glutathione plays a critical role in detoxification, immune support, and protecting cells from oxidative stress. Liposomal delivery bypasses digestive breakdown for greater bioavailability.
Vitamin C
High-quality vitamin C supplement supporting immune function, collagen synthesis, and antioxidant defense. Essential for tissue repair and iron absorption. Liposomal forms offer enhanced bioavailability compared to standard ascorbic acid.
Zinc (Picolinate)
Zinc picolinate supplement offering superior absorption compared to other zinc forms. Supports immune function, hormone production, and wound healing. Important for maintaining testosterone levels and thyroid health, particularly in those with dietary deficiencies.
Turmeric / Curcumin
Turmeric extract standardized for curcumin content, a potent anti-inflammatory compound. Supports joint health, reduces chronic inflammation, and may protect against age-related cognitive decline. Best absorbed when paired with piperine (black pepper extract) or in a liposomal formulation.
Product Comparison
| Product | Dr. Jason Fung | Mark Hyman |
|---|---|---|
| Magnesium (Threonate/Glycinate) | Recommended | Recommended |
| Vitamin D3 (5000 IU) | Recommended | Recommended |
| Green Tea (Matcha) | Recommended | Recommended |
| Apple Cider Vinegar | Recommended | --- |
| Bone Broth | Recommended | --- |
| Electrolyte Mix | Recommended | --- |
| Omega-3 Fish Oil (High EPA) | --- | Recommended |
| Probiotics (Multi-Strain) | --- | Recommended |
| Glutathione (Liposomal) | --- | Recommended |
| Vitamin C | --- | Recommended |
| Zinc (Picolinate) | --- | Recommended |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Dr. Jason Fung's and Mark Hyman's protocols?
Compare Jason Fung's protocol (Nephrologist & Fasting Advocate) with Mark Hyman's approach (Functional Medicine Physician & Author). Fung treats metabolic dysfunction primarily through fasting and insulin management, while Hyman addresses root causes through functional medicine, gut health, and food-as-medicine principles. Both target metabolic health as the foundation of chronic disease prevention but differ on whether fasting or comprehensive nutritional intervention is the primary lever.
What do Dr. Jason Fung and Mark Hyman both recommend?
Both experts recommend Magnesium (Threonate/Glycinate), Vitamin D3 (5000 IU), Green Tea (Matcha). These shared recommendations carry extra weight because they represent consensus across two independent, well-informed approaches to longevity.
Which protocol is better for beginners?
Both protocols can be adapted for beginners. Start with the fundamentals both experts agree on — Magnesium (Threonate/Glycinate), Vitamin D3 (5000 IU), Green Tea (Matcha) — then gradually explore the unique elements of each protocol based on your specific health goals and budget.
All Products From Both Protocols
Magnesium (Threonate/Glycinate)
supplements
Vitamin D3 (5000 IU)
supplements
Green Tea (Matcha)
foods
Apple Cider Vinegar
foods
Bone Broth
foods
Electrolyte Mix
supplements
Omega-3 Fish Oil (High EPA)
supplements
Probiotics (Multi-Strain)
supplements
Glutathione (Liposomal)
supplements
Vitamin C
supplements
Zinc (Picolinate)
supplements
Turmeric / Curcumin
supplements
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