Long, healthy & disease-free life: While the topic of longevity is being explored from various angles worldwide, researchers have linked the concept of Calorie Restrictions (CR) with the possibility of a long, healthy and disease-free life. Evidence has shown restricting the consumption of food on basis of calories, while avoiding the state of malnutrition, can help avoid several age-related diseases. Studies like Calorie restriction for enhanced longevity: The role of novel dietary strategies in the present obesogenic environment, also back up innovative dietary strategies, such as protein restriction and intermittent fasting, which result in healthy ageing.
The journal article acknowledges CR as one of the most effective, non-pharmacological approaches that enhance healthspan and longevity in humans and various nonhuman species. CR is not only related to weight loss but to several other physiological markers, which contribute to overall well-being and good health of the body.
Role of obesity in ageing
The role of obesity is well-defined in the research article, Caloric Restriction in Humans: Impact on Physiological, Psychological, and Behavioral Outcomes, and the authors stress the link between ageing and the increased risk of metabolic disorders. Weight gain is a result of excessive intake of high-energy food and lack of physical activity, and it further results in several other diseases. Another health concern identified in this direction is the adipose tissue and the storage and distribution of fat throughout the body has certain health implications. The adipose tissues accumulated in the visceral compartment of the human body and the nonadipose tissues in the abdomen, liver, heart and pancreas, are considered metabolic abnormalities, which lead to conditions such as impaired glucose tolerance, insulin resistance and hyperlipidemia.
Okinawa, Japan, the home to centenarians
The journal article, Calorie restriction in humans: an update, considers the longevity aspect of the residents of Okinawa, a beautiful island located more than 600 km south of mainland Japan. Of the 100,000 residents of this island, more than 50 are older than 100 years of age. The average number of centenarians on the island is 4 to 5 times higher than that of any other industrialized country. Studies conducted on the dietary regime of the island residents reveal an average adult living in Okinawa consumes 17% fewer calories than their Japanese counterparts. Furthermore, the regular diet of the island is lower in proteins and rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, fish and sweet potatoes. The research further links the role of fast food in deteriorating health standards in humans and how lesser calorie intake can increase the chances of a longer and healthier life.
Several kinds of research point in the direction of higher calorie intake linked to several diseases and premature ageing in not just the human body, but in living organisms such as yeast, rodents and primate beings. One of the preferred approaches towards longevity is consuming a diet with restricted calories, intermittent fasting, watching protein intake and exercising regularly.
