Researchers compared the effects of calorie restriction and fasting in 960 diverse mice.
A groundbreaking study published in the journal Nature found that consistent low-calorie intake is significantly better than regular fasting in extending lifespan. The study, conducted by scientists at the Jackson Laboratory (JAX), involved about 1,000 genetically distinct mice on various dietary treatments.
This study questioned existing theories about biological markers of aging and longevity. Previous research has suggested that periodic fasting can be as effective as reducing overall calorie intake. However, new discoveries show that maintaining a consistently low calorie intake is more beneficial.
The study’s authors write that calorie restriction extends healthy lifespan in multiple species. Intermittent fasting, an alternative form of dietary restriction, may be more sustainable for humans, but its effectiveness is largely unknown. Identifying the most effective forms of dietary restriction is key to developing interventions to improve human health and longevity.
According to the study, researchers compared graded calorie restriction (20% and 40%) and intermittent fasting (one and two days a week) on the health and survival of 960 genetically diverse female mice. An extensive evaluation of fasting was conducted. They show that both caloric restriction and intermittent fasting result in increased longevity in proportion to the degree of restriction.
Lifespan is hereditary, and genetics had a greater influence on lifespan than dietary restrictions. Traits most strongly associated with longevity include weight maintenance over time, high lymphocyte percentage, low red blood cell distribution width, and high fat accumulation in later life, all of which are indicators of stress tolerance.
