Scientists at U-W Madison say eat less, live longer and healthier.
It's called "Caloric Restriction" and it's nothing new.
"It's been known since 1935 that a reduction in calorie intake can increase the lifespan of laboratory rats and keep them healthier for a longer period of time."
UW-Madison School of Medicine Professor Richard Weindruch says, since that time, a 20-year study shows a 30% reduction in calories slows the aging process in monkeys. That's based on four different measures including improved survival; fewer incidents of cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular disease; reduced brain atrophy and loss of muscle mass.
Weindruch warns people who partake in a longevity diet, there's not a lot of leeway to consume empty calories.
"It's very easy to become malnourished, especially if you're not very knowledgeable about nutrition. So, if you're eating, say 20 or 30% less of an already borderline diet, nothing good will happen."
Weindruch says those who limit calories needn't do vigorous exercise, because they don't eat enough calories to burn.
Despite his expertise, Weindruch says he's not very good at adhering to this plan. As for the rest of us, he does not push the idea. He simply provides the facts, and it's up to us to decide whether it's right for us.
The findings of the Wisconsin study are published in the journal Science .
AUDIO: Jackie Johnson report (1:38 mp3)
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