EVENTS IN ÜBERLINGEN
Buchinger Wilhelmi Clinic on Lake Constance – an inspiring place for health and science.
Immerse yourself in an informative Longevity Science Week at the Buchinger Wilhelmi Clinic in Überlingen. From 1 to 6 December 2025, everything will revolve around therapeutic fasting and the microbiome – in other words, the deep connection between fasting and the trillions of microorganisms that live in and on our bodies. This special themed week is aimed at health-conscious guests and those who want to become more health-conscious. Learn how therapeutic fasting and a healthy gut microbiome work together to promote well-being and longevity.
LONGEVITY SCIENCE WEEK
Where tradition meets science –
Rediscover therapeutic fasting at Buchinger Wilhelmi
Buchinger Wilhelmi has more than 100 years of experience in therapeutic fasting and is distinguished by its scientific evidence base. As the world’s only fasting clinic, we continuously validate, test and expand our own therapy concept through studies – enabling us to virtually guarantee certain health benefits of fasting. In fact, we consider fasting to be the most efficient non-pharmacological approach to preventing disease and optimising life expectancy. This commitment to research and validation is reflected in Longevity Science Week: our scientific team – led by Dr Robin Mesnage, Scientific Director of Buchinger Wilhelmi Clinics – would like to share the latest findings with you. Dr Mesnage is an internationally recognised expert in nutrition and microbiome research (Research Fellow at King’s College London) and has published over 100 scientific papers. Together with other experts, he conveys evidence-based knowledge in a clear and practical way.
Longevity Science Week programme schedule
During Longevity Science Week, guests can look forward to a varied programme of lectures, guided tours and workshops every day.
Here are some highlights from the week’s programme.
Please note: Participation in all Longevity Science Week events is free of charge for our guests during their stay at the clinic. The events will be held in German and English, so international visitors are very welcome.
Marie Knufinke and Dr Robin Mesnage
1 December, 8 p.m. | Opening lecture: The secrets of the gut microbiome
Discover why our digestive tract is home to an incredible number of bacteria and how the latest scientific findings about this microbial world are currently revolutionising medicine and opening up new therapeutic opportunities.
2 December, 9.30–10.00 a.m. | Behind the scenes
The science department is opening its doors. Get to know our scientific team in person! In this exclusive lab tour, researchers will answer your questions and explain how they conduct clinical studies on fasting and the microbiome.
2 December, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Workshop on microbial art
Science meets creativity in a unique Microbiome Art Workshop. Be inspired by real microscope images and use collage and watercolour techniques to create impressive works of art that reveal the invisible world of the gut microbiome.
Discover the hidden beauty of the microbiome in an artistic way and learn more about the diversity of gut bacteria along the way.
3 December | Workshop: Making DNA visible
Here you will learn hands-on how researchers make genetic material visible in the laboratory. An interactive experience (exact time according to the weekly programme) where you can see how invisible DNA strands are turned into clear results.
5 December, 8 p.m. | Evening lecture: FastForward lecture on the study for a better understanding of the crucial phase after fasting
In this evening lecture, Marie Knufinke will present a new study being conducted at our clinic. The study examines how reintroducing food after fasting can be optimised so that those who fast can benefit from the positive effects in the long term. You will receive practical tips for better blood sugar control and mindful eating – valuable knowledge for everyday life after fasting.
6 December, 5 p.m. | Closing lecture: Scientific discoveries and achievements
To conclude the week, our research team will provide an overview of the latest scientific breakthroughs relating to the microbiome that are attracting the attention of the medical world. You will also learn first-hand about the important findings that Buchinger Wilhelmi’s scientific department has made in recent years – from documenting the safety of therapeutic fasting to its diverse therapeutic effects. This lecture summarises the essence of what makes Buchinger Wilhelmi a pioneer in fasting research.
Interactive research – experiences that last
A special feature of this week is its interactivity. As a participant, you are more than just a listener – you become part of the research process yourself!
For example, you will have the opportunity to cultivate the microorganisms that live on your own skin on culture media and view them under a microscope. This direct research experience allows you to experience abstract science up close.
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The mix of theory and practice – lectures in the evening and hands-on workshops during the day – ensures that knowledge is not only heard, but understood with all the senses. Many of our guests report that it is precisely these hands-on experiences that leave a lasting impression and motivate them to apply what they have learned in their everyday lives.
There is also plenty of opportunity for personal questions and discussions with the experts. Whether on a tour of the research department or in discussion groups after the lectures, you can talk directly to scientists, doctors and therapists. This proximity to world-renowned experts in fasting and the microbiome is what makes Longevity Science Week so unique. Where else do you have the opportunity to discuss with pioneers in fasting research in a relaxed atmosphere and receive individual recommendations?
Inspiration for a healthy, long life
Longevity Science Week offers not only concentrated knowledge, but also inspiration for your own lifestyle. You will learn why the microbiome is a key factor in health and disease and how you can promote your ‘good’ gut bacteria through targeted nutrition and fasting. The content covered – from the latest study results to practical nutrition tips – will help you set the course for a long, healthy life. Fasting is not only understood here as a cure, but as an impetus for sustainable lifestyle changes.
By the end of this week, you will see fasting and nutrition in a new light. You will take home personalised fasting protocols and practical recommendations to help you maintain the results achieved at the clinic in the long term. Longevity Science Week is designed to motivate you to integrate what you have learned into your everyday life – for more energy, balance and healthy years of life. Buchinger Wilhelmi cordially invites you to be part of this unique experience.
Longevity Science Week uniquely combines scientific expertise with Buchinger Wilhelmi’s long tradition of fasting. A week full of insights, activity and wow moments awaits you – in idyllic surroundings on Lake Constance and in the best company of like-minded people. Don’t miss this inspiring journey into the world of therapeutic fasting and the microbiome – your body and mind will thank you for it.
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