According to a new study, calorie reduction is the key to slowing the aging process. This is true? Find out in this article.
What were the findings of the study?
The study, published in Nature Aging on February 9, found that a two-year intervention which required participants to reduce 25% of their daily calories by January 31, slowed down the rate of aging by between 2-3%. This is basically a 10% to 15% chance of dying from cancer. It is also the same level as quitting smoking.
According to Calen Ryan, Ph.D. co-lead of this study, some people may find this level caloric reduction difficult to follow. The study shows that even without drugs, changes in behavior can have an impact on your ageing rate.
This allows for other interventions such as intermittent fasting and time-restricted consuming to be studied.
Reducing calories can increase metabolism and improve heart health
This is part of a continuing review called CALERIE (Comprehensive Assessment of Long Term Effects of Reducing Energy Intake). It was initiated in 2006. CALERIE trial data from previous studies showed numerous benefits to calorie restriction.
One study found that calorie restriction can slow down aging-related changes to the physiology of your kidneys, liver and blood vessels. It also affects your immune system, metabolism, and immune system. A second study found that cutting calories can reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes or heart disease, as well as improve cardiovascular and metabolic health.
Less calories lead to slower aging.
Researchers analyzed blood samples taken from trial participants before and after the intervention.
The pace of biological ageing was slowed by lowering your calorie intake, according to the researchers. There was also a dose-response effect. Participants who ate less calories had a slower rate of biological aging.
Conclusion
The current belief is that calorie restriction can affect nutrient-sensing pathways, energy metabolism and reduce the risk of developing aging.
You should consult your doctor before you start any calorie-restrictive diet. This will ensure that the process is done under the guidance and care of a professional. You should also ensure that you are still getting the recommended nutrients to ensure that calorie reduction does not adversely affect your health.
