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| Unlocking the Secrets of Healthy Aging: How Calorie Restriction Strengthens Muscles and Activates Vital Genes |
Reducing daily calorie intake promotes strong muscles and activates genes for healthy aging, NIH study finds
A groundbreaking study conducted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and their collaborators has uncovered the remarkable benefits of calorie restriction on human health. This research suggests that even a modest reduction in daily calorie consumption can rejuvenate muscles and trigger essential biological pathways associated with healthy aging.
The study draws from data collected during the Comprehensive Assessment of Long-Term Effects of Reducing Intake of Energy (CALERIE) project, supported by the National Institute on Aging (NIA). The researchers aimed to determine whether moderate calorie restriction in humans could replicate the health benefits observed in animal models. Participants in the study were encouraged to reduce their daily caloric intake by 25%, although most achieved a 12% reduction, still yielding positive results.
Dr. Luigi Ferrucci, corresponding author and NIA Scientific Director, notes, "A 12% reduction in calorie intake is very modest, but it can make a significant difference in your health."
In addition to the observed health benefits, the research sought to unravel the molecular mechanisms behind calorie restriction in humans. Notably, individuals on calorie restriction lost muscle mass and maintained their weight. However, muscle strength was preserved, signifying an improvement in muscle-specific force.
Thigh muscle biopsies from CALERIE participants were used to isolate messenger RNA (mRNA) molecules, which contain the genetic code for proteins. By examining the mRNA's protein sequence, the researchers identified specific genes that were influenced by calorie restriction. The study revealed that calorie restriction triggered similar gene pathways in humans as seen in mice and non-human primates. Notably, genes responsible for energy generation and metabolism were upregulated, while inflammatory genes leading to lower inflammation were downregulated.
Dr. Ferrucci emphasizes, "Since inflammation and aging are strongly coupled, calorie restriction represents a powerful approach to preventing the pro-inflammatory state that is developed by many older people."
This research was supported by the NIA Intramural Research Program and various NIH grants.
Reference:
- Das JK, et al. Calorie restriction modulates the transcription of genes related to stress response and longevity in human muscle: The CALERIE study. Aging Cell. 2023; Oct 12:e13963. doi: 10.1111/acel.13963.
About the National Institute on Aging (NIA): NIA leads the U.S. federal government's research efforts on aging and the well-being of older individuals.
About the National Institutes of Health (NIH): NIH is the primary federal agency responsible for conducting and supporting medical research, including investigations into the causes, treatments, and cures for various diseases. Learn more about NIH and its programs at www.nih.gov.
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