Caloric restriction (CR) is a dietary intervention that reduces calorie intake without causing malnutrition. It has been extensively studied in various animal models and has been found to increase lifespan and improve health span. The mechanism by which CR works is not completely understood, but it is believed to act through multiple pathways to delay aging and age-related diseases.

Caloric restriction reduces oxidative stress.

Which is a key factor in aging. Oxidative stress results from an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the body’s antioxidant defense system. ROS are highly reactive molecules that can damage proteins, lipids, and DNA, leading to cellular dysfunction and death. CR has been shown to decrease the production of ROS and increase the body’s antioxidant defense system, which reduces oxidative stress and slows down the aging process (1).

Caloric restriction activates the sirtuin family of proteins.

Which play a crucial role in regulating metabolism and aging. Sirtuins are NAD+-dependent deacetylases involved in various cellular processes, including DNA repair, gene expression, and energy metabolism. CR has been found to increase the expression and activity of sirtuins, which can lead to improved metabolic health and increased lifespan (2).

Caloric restriction improves mitochondrial function.

Which is essential for energy production and cellular homeostasis. Mitochondria are the cell’s powerhouse, and their dysfunction has been linked to various age-related diseases, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. CR has been shown to improve mitochondrial function by increasing the number and quality of mitochondria and promoting mitochondrial biogenesis (3).

Caloric restriction reduces inflammation.

Which is a hallmark of aging. Inflammation is a natural response to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can lead to tissue damage and contribute to age-related diseases. CR has been found to reduce inflammation by decreasing the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and increasing the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines (4).

Caloric restriction improves cognitive function and protects against neurodegeneration.

Age-related cognitive declines and neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, are major aging population concerns. CR has been shown to improve cognitive function and protect against neurodegeneration by increasing brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that promotes the growth and survival of neurons, and reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain (5).

Caloric restriction is a promising dietary intervention to help slow aging

It works through multiple pathways to delay aging and age-related diseases, including reducing oxidative stress, activating sirtuins, improving mitochondrial function, reducing inflammation, and improving cognitive function. However, further studies are needed to determine the optimal duration and level of caloric restriction for different populations and to investigate the potential adverse effects of long-term CR. Therefore, it is recommended that individuals consult with a healthcare professional before starting a caloric restrictive diet.

References:

1. Lee, C. K., & Weindruch, R. (2017). Caloric restriction and aging: studies in mice and monkeys. Toxicologic pathology, 45(6), 763-775.
2. Mercken, E. M., Carboneau, B. A., Krzysik-Walker, S. M., & de Cabo, R. (2012). Of mice and men: the benefits of caloric restriction, exercise, and mimetics. Aging research reviews, 11(3), 390-398.
3. Lopez-Lluch, G., Irusta, P. M., Navas, P., & de Cabo, R. (2008). Mitochondrial biogenesis and healthy aging. Experimental gerontology, 43(9), 813-819.
4. Salminen, A., & Kaarniranta, K. (2017). NF-κB signaling in the aging process. Journal of clinical immunology, 37(1), 21-27.
5. Mattson, M. P., & Arumugam, T. V. (2018). Hallmarks of brain aging: adaptive and pathological modification by metabolic states. Cell metabolism, 27(6), 1176-1199.