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.

Side-by-Side Comparison

CategoryDr. Jason FungMark Hyman
TitleNephrologist & Bestselling Author of The Obesity CodeFunctional Medicine Physician & Author
Focus Areas
fastingdiabetesinsulin resistanceweight lossdiet
functional medicinenutritiongut healthsupplementsanti aging
Total Products69
Shared Products3 products in common
ProtocolA 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.

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Green Tea (Matcha)

foods

Where They Differ

These products are unique to one protocol — reflecting each expert's distinct philosophy, research focus, and priorities.

Dr. Jason Fung

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.

Mark Hyman

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

ProductDr. Jason FungMark Hyman
Magnesium (Threonate/Glycinate)RecommendedRecommended
Vitamin D3 (5000 IU)RecommendedRecommended
Green Tea (Matcha)RecommendedRecommended
Apple Cider VinegarRecommended---
Bone BrothRecommended---
Electrolyte MixRecommended---
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

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Green Tea (Matcha)

foods

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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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