With obesity continually on the rise and people's lifespans extending, recent emphasis has been placed on the effects of calorie reduction and aging. Researchers at Harvard Medical School, Cornell University and the National Institutes of Health have found a correlation between restricted calorie diets and longevity. Though the research is new and the findings controversial, studies regarding calorie restriction are significant and relevant to our dietary culture.
History
According to an article that ran in the New York Times in October of 2009 calorie restriction as a means toward improved longevity has been studied since the 1930s. Researchers at Cornell University discovered that rats and other animals live longer when their caloric intake is reduced. In 1989 the University of Wisconsin found similar results when researchers studied the effects of calorie restriction on monkeys. Various universities around the United States are currently studying the effects of this dietary regime among recruited humans. Long-term findings won't be available for some time.
Theories/Speculation
Advocates of calorie restriction diets claim that the lifestyle can lead to heightened longevity, slowed physical aging and reduced risk of chronic diseases. According to the Mayo Clinic, researchers believe that low-calorie eating reduces deterioration of nerves in the brain and can help create new ones for those who are lacking. This could potentially prevent or treat cases of Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease and stroke. Some researchers suspect that by putting one's body into starvation mode, survival instincts will kick in and help the person live longer. Improved body weight, body fat, blood sugar levels and cholesterol levels are additional results researchers hope for.
Features
Most people who restrict calories toward improving wellness and longevity reduce their caloric intake by approximately 20 to 30 percent. They are encouraged to eat nutrient-rich, calorie-poor foods. This may include a variety of fruits and vegetables, broth-based soups, lean protein in the form of legumes, poultry or fish and healthy fats in the form of olive oil and nuts. Recipe pamphlets are available since most of the foods need to be prepared on your own. Pure, natural foods are the premise of the diet, so health food grocery stores and farmers markets are relied upon heavily. Foods such as sugar, most flours, processed foods and snack items, other than produce and nuts, are restricted or avoided.
Risks
Mayo Clinic health experts warn that calorie restriction has not been proven beneficial and carries a number of serious risks. Individuals who follow the regime are at heightened risk of depression, menstrual irregularities, osteoporosis, loss of muscle mass, anemia, malnutrition and eating disorders. Additional side effects may include dizziness, headache, swelling of the feet or other body parts, intense hunger, lethargy and irritability. Since long-term effects of calorie restriction on humans have not yet been determined and research is limited, the overall safety and effectiveness of this diet is questionable.
Considerations
If you are considering a calorie restriction diet, several factors should be addressed. If you are underweight or maintaining a healthy weight for your shape, size, age and gender, reducing your weight may be dangerous. If you've had or currently struggle with an eating disorder, anemia, osteoporosis or depression, consider the fact that your risks for these disorders will increase. Instead, seek a healthy diet that provides plenty of nutrients and calories, catered to your physical emotional needs rather than calorie restriction.
Calorie restriction can be extremely challenging, particularly if you eat out socially or share meals with others who do not partake in the lifestyle. Many foods are eliminated from the diet due to calorie or nutrient content so keep in mind that some of your favorite foods may be cut from your current diet. Calorie restriction for longevity is intended to improve wellness and lifespan but is risky. Consider whether the risks are worth your goals. The diet is not intended as a weight loss diet. If weight loss is your primary goal seek a balanced diet that includes a variety of healthy foods and moderate exercise--a safer, proven method.
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