The eating advice over calories that could help you live longer

New research published in Nature suggests that the key to living longer might involve more than just periodic fasting—it could be about the long-term reduction in calorie intake. Conducted by American researchers, a study with mice revealed surprising results regarding calorie restriction and its impact on longevity and overall health.

The study found that the mice that lived longest were those that shed the least amount of weight despite consuming fewer calories than their counterparts. These mice maintained higher energy levels, robust immune systems, and reproductive health, leading to longer lifespans compared to mice that lost more weight and had compromised biological systems. This challenges the belief that eating less food or eating less frequently automatically leads to a longer life.

Researchers at The Jackson Laboratory in Bar Harbor, Maine monitored over 900 genetically unique mice on different diet regimes to understand how calorie restriction could affect longevity. The study showed that low-calorie diets extended the lives of mice regardless of their body fat or blood sugar levels. The most resilient mice, those that maintained their weight under stress and caloric restriction, managed to live the longest.

The research team, led by Professor Gary Churchill, found that genetics play a significant role in determining lifespan, with genetic factors outweighing the impact of diet. This suggests that individual genetic traits are crucial in understanding how diet influences long-term health. The study also highlighted that losing weight due to calorie restriction may not necessarily lead to increased lifespan, as resilience and genetic factors play a more critical role.

While caloric restriction has been generally associated with longevity, the study emphasised the importance of maintaining body weight, fat percentage, and immune health under stress for a longer life. The findings suggest that factors like metabolism, immune system health, and red blood cell traits are more closely linked to lifespan than traditional markers like weight and body fat.

In conclusion, the research provides valuable insights into the complex relationship between diet, genetics, and longevity. It highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding of how dietary practices impact overall health and lifespan. By focusing on genetic resilience and maintaining health under stress, individuals may have a better chance at living longer, healthier lives.

Insights and Summary:
The re-written article provides a detailed overview of the recent research published in Nature regarding the impact of calorie restriction on longevity, based on studies conducted with mice. The article highlights the unexpected findings that challenge conventional beliefs about the effects of calorie intake on lifespan. By emphasising the role of genetic factors and resilience in determining longevity, the research sheds light on the complex interplay between diet, genetics, and overall health. The insights from the study suggest that maintaining health and resilience under stress may be key to living a longer, healthier life.