Eating less to live longer: How does it work?

A recent study on calorie restriction in humans identifies a genetic link with extended healthspan.

MNT's Sunday Supplement: Researchers identify a gene that links eating less to living longer We know from laboratory studies conducted in a variety of animals — rats, mice, fruit flies, microscopic worms, and more — that limiting the amount of calories an organism consumes can increase or even double lifespan. Is the same true of humans, and how much should a person reduce their intake of calories to reap the benefit? A new study covered by Medical News Today this week set out to investigate the potential of calorie restriction in people. It found that rejuvenation of the thymus, a gland that supports the immune system, is implicated. Furthermore, researchers identified a gene coding for a specific protein, PLA2G7, as a critical piece in the calorie restriction puzzle, one that is instrumental in allowing the immune and metabolic systems to communicate. Another finding was that calorie restriction need not be as strict as the 40% reduction used in some animal studies. The researchers found that thymus function could be maintained at a healthy level by reducing calories by a modest 14%, a level that should be sustainable for many people over a long period of time. However, a registered dietitian MNT spoke to warned against misinterpreting this study: "Calorie restriction does not mean you eat just 15% less of your favorite junk food." To learn more about this study and how eating less can lead to longer life, jump to "Calorie restriction trial reveals gene that may prolong healthy life." Also this week, MNT reported on the latest research to link vitamin D deficiency and severity of COVID-19, news of the first patient to receive a personalized cancer vaccine, and tips for coping with the growing threat of climate change to our mental health. We will return with our regular daily newsletter tomorrow. Please get in touch by email if you have any feedback, comments, or questions about this week's Sunday Supplement. Tim Snaith Newsletter Editor, Medical News Today In case you missed it COVID-19: Why vitamin D levels may be key   New research into vitamin D levels and COVID-19 outcomes finds that people lacking vitamin D are 14 times more likely to experience severe COVID-19. Read on   Man in the UK becomes first patient to receive customized cancer vaccine   A U.K.-based man with recurring head and neck cancer is participating in a clinical trial in which he is receiving a cancer vaccine that is customized to his DNA. Read on   Stem-cell treatment may have cured woman of HIV   An HIV-positive woman who has received a transplant of umbilical cord stem cells has no signs of HIV, and the infection is in long-term remission. Read on   Long COVID: Can brain stimulation treat 'brain fog'?   New research suggests that brain stimulation may help reactivate silenced cells of the nervous system in long COVID by increasing their oxygen supply. Read on   Climate change and mental health: Expert tips on how to cope   In this special feature, MNT explore not only the direct effects of climate change on mental health, but also the importance of building resilience and other coping strategies. Read on   Mimicking natural light cycles may influence diabetes risk   The timing and intensity of light that humans experience daily have subtle effects on glucose and fat metabolism and may contribute to diabetes. Read on   Antibiotics and eczema: Is there a link?   Researchers have looked into whether early exposure to antibiotics, even in the womb, affects a person's future risk of developing eczema. Read on   How does caffeine reduce heart disease risk?   How does caffeine reduce cardiovascular risk? A new study finds that caffeine lowers levels of PCSK9, which leads to lower levels of "bad" cholesterol. Read on

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