Restricting the amount of calories we consume, while avoiding malnutrition, may extend our lives and reduce the risk of chronic disease, and boost our brain health, suggest results from a monkey study in a report "Caloric Restriction Delays Disease Onset and Mortality in Rhesus Monkeys" of the publication “Science”, 10 July 2009, Volume 325, Pages 201-204. Authors: R.J. Colman, R.M. Anderson, S.C. Johnson, E.K. Kastman, K.J. Kosmatka, T.M. Beasley, D.B. Allison, C. Cruzen, H.A. Simmons, J.W. Kemnitz, R. Weindruch.
“Given the obvious parallels between rhesus monkeys and humans, the beneficial effects of caloric restriction may also occur in humans. This prediction is supported by studies of people on long-term caloric restriction, who show fewer signs of cardiovascular aging,” they added.
Brain health was also better in the animals with restricted calorie diets, said the researchers, particularly the parts of the brain responsible for motor control and executive functions such as working memory and problem solving.
For more details, please visit the Sources of information:
(1) http://www.foodnavigator.com/Science-Nutrition/Calorie-restriction-leads-to-longer-life-Study
(2) http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/abstract/325/5937/201
(3) http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/health/view/441554/1/.html
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We have known for some time that caloric restriction relates to longevity and functional health in animals. This has been well documented and discussed in previous blogs from Fit brains. However, the issue of whether caloric restriction also benefits humans has been less clear. It’s also obvious and important to note how difficult caloric restriction can be for humans, particularly when such reduction in calories is significant.
Much work is done on the quality of what is consumed when one reviews the many dietary plans offered on the market. Less is focused on the quantity and it is generally true that those living in western nations over-consume. This has resulted in an alarming increase in obesity and diabetes, including a significant number of cases emerging in childhood.
The balance of sugars and insulin in our bodies is very important. An unhealthy balance can lead to diabetes and multiple other medical problems, some of which affect the brain such as stroke and dementia. We now know that what we eat affects both the structure and function of our brain and more attention is now focused on both the quality and quantity of our diets.
Dr. Paul
www.fitbrains.com
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