Dr. Sten Ekberg vs Dr. Jason Fung

Compare Dr. Sten Ekberg's holistic health protocol with Dr. Jason Fung's intermittent fasting approach. Both physicians identify insulin resistance as the root cause of metabolic disease and prescribe fasting as the primary intervention — but Ekberg layers in a broader supplement stack and keto-focused nutrition from a functional medicine perspective, while Fung keeps supplementation minimal and focuses on fasting structure and whole-food refeeds from a clinical nephrology background.

Side-by-Side Comparison

CategoryDr. Sten EkbergDr. Jason Fung
TitleHolistic Doctor & Olympic DecathleteNephrologist & Bestselling Author of The Obesity Code
Focus Areas
insulin resistanceintermittent fastingketosupplementsnutritionholistic health
fastingdiabetesinsulin resistanceweight lossdiet
Total Products1214
Shared Products8 products in common
ProtocolA holistic, low-carb protocol rooted in correcting insulin resistance through intermittent fasting, nutrient-dense whole foods, and targeted supplementation — built on decades of chiropractic and functional medicine practice.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.

What They Agree On

Both Dr. Sten Ekberg and Dr. Jason Fung include these 8 products in their protocols — a signal of strong evidence and broad expert consensus.

Black Coffee

High-quality black coffee, one of the most widely recommended beverages during intermittent fasting. Contains caffeine and chlorogenic acid, which may increase metabolic rate and fat oxidation. Dr. Jason Fung considers black coffee an excellent fasting companion — it suppresses appetite, does not stimulate insulin, and may enhance the metabolic benefits of fasting.

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Black Coffee

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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.

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Apple Cider Vinegar

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Pasture-Raised Eggs

Pasture-raised eggs are a nutrient-dense whole food providing complete protein, healthy fats, choline, and fat-soluble vitamins. Among protein sources, eggs produce one of the lowest insulin responses — making them a preferred choice in Dr. Jason Fung's protocol for meals that support metabolic health and stable blood sugar.

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Pasture-Raised Eggs

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Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil, a cornerstone of Mediterranean and longevity diets. Rich in polyphenols and oleic acid.

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Extra Virgin Olive Oil

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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.

Omega-3 Fish Oil (High EPA)

supplements

Wild-Caught Salmon

Wild-caught salmon is one of the best whole-food sources of omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. Rich in high-quality protein, astaxanthin, and vitamin D, it supports cardiovascular and brain health. Consuming fatty fish 2-3 times per week is a cornerstone recommendation across longevity protocols.

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Wild-Caught Salmon

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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

Where They Differ

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

Dr. Sten Ekberg

Only in Dr. Sten Ekberg's Protocol

Organ Meats (Grass-Fed)

Nutrient-dense organ meats from grass-fed animals, including liver, heart, and kidney. Organ meats are among the most bioavailable sources of B vitamins, iron, zinc, copper, and fat-soluble vitamins A and D. Available fresh or as convenient desiccated capsules for those who prefer not to cook them.

Potassium Supplement

Potassium is an essential electrolyte mineral critical for heart rhythm, muscle contraction, and nerve signaling. Most adults fall short of the recommended 4,700 mg daily intake, making supplementation a practical strategy alongside potassium-rich foods like avocados, sweet potatoes, and leafy greens.

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.

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.

Dr. Jason Fung

Only in Dr. Jason Fung's Protocol

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.

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.

Chia Seeds

Organic chia seeds rich in soluble fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and plant protein. When soaked in liquid they form a filling gel that expands in the stomach. Dr. Jason Fung recommends chia seeds as a fasting variation — their high fiber content helps manage hunger during fasts with minimal insulin stimulation.

Ceylon Cinnamon

Ceylon cinnamon, known as 'true cinnamon,' is a spice with research-supported blood sugar lowering properties. It may improve insulin sensitivity and help reduce fasting glucose levels. Dr. Jason Fung recommends cinnamon as a natural way to manage hunger during fasts — it adds flavor to beverages without stimulating insulin and may have protective metabolic effects.

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. Sten EkbergDr. Jason Fung
Black CoffeeRecommendedRecommended
Apple Cider VinegarRecommendedRecommended
Pasture-Raised EggsRecommendedRecommended
Extra Virgin Olive OilRecommendedRecommended
Omega-3 Fish Oil (High EPA)RecommendedRecommended
Wild-Caught SalmonRecommendedRecommended
Magnesium (Threonate/Glycinate)RecommendedRecommended
Vitamin D3 (5000 IU)RecommendedRecommended
Organ Meats (Grass-Fed)Recommended---
Potassium SupplementRecommended---
Glutathione (Liposomal)Recommended---
Probiotics (Multi-Strain)Recommended---
Green Tea (Matcha)---Recommended
Bone Broth---Recommended
Electrolyte Mix---Recommended
Chia Seeds---Recommended
Ceylon Cinnamon---Recommended

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Dr. Sten Ekberg's and Dr. Jason Fung's protocols?

Compare Dr. Sten Ekberg's holistic health protocol with Dr. Jason Fung's intermittent fasting approach. Both physicians identify insulin resistance as the root cause of metabolic disease and prescribe fasting as the primary intervention — but Ekberg layers in a broader supplement stack and keto-focused nutrition from a functional medicine perspective, while Fung keeps supplementation minimal and focuses on fasting structure and whole-food refeeds from a clinical nephrology background.

What do Dr. Sten Ekberg and Dr. Jason Fung both recommend?

Both experts recommend Black Coffee, Apple Cider Vinegar, Pasture-Raised Eggs, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Omega-3 Fish Oil (High EPA), Wild-Caught Salmon, Magnesium (Threonate/Glycinate), Vitamin D3 (5000 IU). 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 — Black Coffee, Apple Cider Vinegar, Pasture-Raised Eggs, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Omega-3 Fish Oil (High EPA), Wild-Caught Salmon, Magnesium (Threonate/Glycinate), Vitamin D3 (5000 IU) — then gradually explore the unique elements of each protocol based on your specific health goals and budget.

All Products From Both Protocols

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Black Coffee

foods

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Apple Cider Vinegar

foods

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Pasture-Raised Eggs

foods

🌿

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

foods

Omega-3 Fish Oil (High EPA)

supplements

🌿

Wild-Caught Salmon

foods

Magnesium (Threonate/Glycinate)

supplements

Vitamin D3 (5000 IU)

supplements

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Organ Meats (Grass-Fed)

foods

Potassium Supplement

supplements

Glutathione (Liposomal)

supplements

Probiotics (Multi-Strain)

supplements

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Green Tea (Matcha)

foods

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Bone Broth

foods

Electrolyte Mix

supplements

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Chia Seeds

foods

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Ceylon Cinnamon

foods

Turmeric / Curcumin

supplements

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