A Calorie Restriction Diet and Longevity
Posted by admin on Jan 22, 2009
Calorie Restriction Vs Exercise
Studies have shown that people who practice calorie restriction for extended periods hold back the signs of aging when compared to people on other types of diet. This includes people who might have a high calorie intake but because of extreme exercise regimes have very little body fat.
Lean Machine - Really?
Leanness alone does not seem to be the answer to an increased lifespan. Experiments have shown that lab rats on restricted calorie diets live longer than those on a normal diet. This is interesting because to a point it shows that nutrition is more important than calorie intake. Rats on a normal diet, although don’t gain weight seem to be somehow less efficient than those that are calorie restricted. The calories in question are of course not the so called ‘empty calories’ indicative of the junk foods we are all so familiar with. Imagine being calorie restricted on a diet of pure sugar or fat. Life would be short either way!
Evidence in the Heart
It has been shown that highly nutritional low calorie diets reverse the signs of aging in the heart. Those who practice calorie restriction tend to have a lower level of the thyroid hormone called T3 in their blood. This particular hormone has been linked with metabolism, body temperature and the production of free radicals. All properties that have been linked with aging and the damage to cellular structure.
Why Weight Loss Slows
Scientists have known for many years that calorie restriction slows the metabolic rate. This is actually a defensive mechanism of the body, going into survival mode, in an attempt to fight against weight loss. Great if you want to stave off age but not so good when you are trying to lose weight.
Consider the Nutrients
It is clear then, that a calorie restriction diet is beneficial for those of us trying to live longer. It is one of the true health secrets to longevity. What we must consider though, is the nutritional content of our food. There is little point in restricting calories by consuming processed or fast foods. Only natural/organic products will give us the nutrients we need for longevity. Our cells are built on the nutrients we consume. You really can’t have your cake and eat it too!
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Since the Atkins diet can produce ketosis, it has the potential to benefit people with epilepsy. Calorie Restriction Diet