The actor has spoken about how he achieved dramatic weight loss using the late Dr Michael Mosley’s renowned diet plan
Lauren Haughey Lifestyle and Money Reporter
09:43, 30 Dec 2025
Martin Clunes previously said he’d lost three stone in just a matter of months(Image: Claire Greenway, Getty Images)
It’s been more than a year since the devastating loss of Dr Michael Mosley. The esteemed medical professional tragically passed away while on holiday on the Greek island of Symi.
The 67-year-old TV star was well-known for his expertise in nutrition and diet plans. He helped both everyday people and celebrities, including Martin Clunes, to shed weight and improve their overall health.
One standout eating plan was the 5:2 diet, which he developed with his wife, Dr Clare Bailey Mosley, with the goal of making weight loss achievable for all. Despite the tragic loss of Dr Mosley, the significant impact of his work continues, with his family now establishing a research fund in his memory.
But what exactly does the 5:2 diet entail, and how could it benefit you? If you’re interested in exploring this method, you’ve come to the right place. Chronicle Live has compiled all the essential information about this popular diet plan.
What is the 5:2 diet?
The 5:2 eating plan is designed to assist anyone seeking a practical yet gentle approach to weight loss. It involves eating as usual for five days whilst limiting calories for two, often referred to as ‘fasting’ days.
Maintaining a Mediterranean-inspired diet is also encouraged daily, as recent studies indicate it offers greater health benefits than conventional Western dietary choices. Experts at Healthline have explained: “One common way of planning the week is to fast on Mondays and Thursdays, with two or three small meals, then eat normally for the rest of the week.
“It’s important to emphasise that eating ‘normally’ does not mean you can eat anything. If you eat too much junk food, then you probably won’t lose any weight, and you may even gain weight.”
Who has it helped?
The 5:2 approach is believed to have helped millions worldwide shed pounds and sustain long-term wellbeing. Notably, this includes Martin Clunes, the well-loved actor known for his role in ITV’s Doc Martin.
During 2017, the now 64-year-old star revealed he’d achieved his goal of a three-stone weight loss in just three months, largely thanks to the 5:2 diet. “I was fat – and while I was getting heavy, I had tired knees and stuff,” he told MailOnline at the time.
“So I thought I’d try that diet, and the weight came off. I lost about three stone in as many months. It’s great – and it’s supposed to be good for cholesterol, too.”
While there’s limited research specifically on the 5:2 method, academic studies have widely acknowledged the benefits of intermittent fasting. These extend beyond just weight management, with researchers highlighting its potential role in preventing chronic diseases.
Following a study in 2021, Dr Benjamin Horne at the Intermountain Healthcare Heart Institute, said: “Inflammation is associated with a higher risk of developing multiple chronic diseases, including diabetes and heart disease. We’re encouraged to see evidence that intermittent fasting is prompting the body to fight inflammation and lowering those risks.”
According to the Mirror, he later added: “The best routine is one that patients can stick to over the long term, and this study shows that even occasional fasting can have positive health effects.”
It’s also worth noting that Mediterranean-style diets, which go beyond the 5:2 method, have attracted considerable attention for their potential health benefits, extending far beyond mere weight loss.
For example, last year, the Autonomous University of Barcelona identified garlic, saffron, olives, rosemary, and grapes among the Mediterranean foods containing ‘active components’ that could be beneficial for cardiovascular health. In addition, a separate study conducted by Tulane University suggested that following Mediterranean eating patterns could be associated with a notably lower risk of dementia.
“Our findings suggest that the Mediterranean diet or its biological effects could be harnessed to improve scholastic performance in adolescents, or work performance in young adults,” corresponding author Dr Demetrius Maraganore at Tulane University said at the time.
“While these findings are based on animal models, they echo human studies linking the Mediterranean diet to improved memory and reduced dementia risk.”
Is the 5:2 suitable for everyone?
Whilst the 5:2 approach presents possible advantages, it may not suit everybody. Nutritionist Kerry Torrens, writing for BBC’s Good Food, cautioned that it could pose risks for expectant or nursing mothers and individuals taking certain medications.
The regime is also unsuitable for children and adolescents who require additional vital nutrients to support healthy development. Therefore, anybody contemplating the 5:2 programme is strongly advised to consult healthcare professionals beforehand.
At the time, Kerry said: “Much of the emphasis given to the 5:2 is on the ‘fasting’ days, but to be safe, effective and healthy, the food consumed during the other five days of the week needs to be of high nutritional value.
“For this reason, you should aim to include essential fats from oily fish, nuts and seeds, lean sources of protein, wholegrains and starchy carbs with plenty of fruit and vegetables to supply the necessary fibre, vitamins and minerals that you need.”