A groundbreaking study published in Nature has upended our understanding of how calorie restriction impacts longevity. Researchers at the Jackson Laboratory and Calico Life Sciences conducted one of the largest dietary restriction studies ever, involving nearly 1,000 genetically diverse mice.
While the study confirmed that calorie restriction and intermittent fasting can increase lifespan, it revealed that the mechanisms are more complex than previously thought. Surprisingly, mice that lost the most weight tended to die younger than those with modest weight loss.
The findings suggest that immune health, genetic resilience, and red blood cell function play more significant roles in extending lifespan than metabolic changes alone. This research could reshape how scientists approach dietary restriction studies in humans and highlights the distinction between healthspan and lifespan.
As we continue to unravel the mysteries of aging, this study serves as a reminder of the intricate nature of our bodies’ responses to dietary interventions.