As a radical reduction in calories can prolong life
Health / / December 19, 2019
Studies on fish, rats and monkeys have confirmed that a sharp reduction in food intake increases lifespan. Recently published workMetabolic Slowing and Reduced Oxidative Damage with Sustained Caloric Restriction Support the Rate of Living and Oxidative Damage Theories of Aging, Check how calorie restriction affects people. It turned out, it can slow down your metabolism and aging process.
The study included 53 people participate who are not obese. A third of them ate as usual. Others have reduced the usual amount of food to 25%. They held such a diet for two years. It is not surprising that during this time they lost weight - an average of 8.7 kg. Participants in the control group, conversely, recovered approximately 1.8 kg.
But the weight loss was not the main purpose of the experiment. The researchers wanted to know whether the effect is dramatic reduction of calories in the rate of aging. To understand it, we measured the speed before the start of the study metabolism participants.
Two years later, it became apparent that such a strict diet actually slows metabolism and increases its efficiency.
"In essence, this means that the cells to produce energy needed less oxygen. Therefore, the body becomes more energy efficient, "- explains clinical psychologist Leanne Redman (Leanne Redman), who led the study. If less oxygen is used, the amount of dangerous free radicals is reduced.
"Oxygen can damage tissues and cells - continues Redman. - So what if it costs are reduced, and reduced likelihood of damage. " Namely, these damage accelerate aging.
It does not prove directly that cutting calories extends life. But thanks to him exactly decreases blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
The catch is that the slowdown in metabolism can lead to other problems. Medical biochemist Walter Longo (Valter Longo) from the University of Southern California believes that the temporary restriction of calories in the end will cause weight gain. Besides such a diet can lead to muscle atrophy and weakening of the immune system.
Instead of constantly limiting calories Longo advises short-term fasting. For example, five days a month to consume just 900 calories. This approach does not harm health. Yes, it will not prolong life, but to support normal weight and help prevent chronic diseases.
Just do not forget that fasting is not for everyone. If you have or have had problems with digestion, you should consult with your doctor.
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