Recent research indicates that caloric restriction may slow human aging:

  • Study Overview: The CALERIE phase 2 clinical trial involved 220 healthy adults aged 21–50. Participants were divided into a control group with no dietary changes and a study group instructed to reduce calorie intake by 25% over two years.
  • Findings: On average, the calorie-restricted group achieved a 12% reduction in caloric intake. This group exhibited a 2–3% decrease in the pace of aging, as measured by the DunedinPACE algorithm, which analyzes DNA methylation patterns to assess biological aging. This reduction correlates with a 10–15% decrease in mortality risk, comparable to the benefits of quitting smoking.
  • Weight Loss Factor: While some participants experienced weight loss, the study suggests that the deceleration in aging was not solely attributable to weight reduction, indicating other underlying mechanisms.
  • Measurement Tools: The study utilized epigenetic clocks like DunedinPACE to estimate biological age, offering a more immediate assessment of aging interventions compared to traditional lifespan studies.

These findings provide preliminary evidence that caloric restriction may positively impact human aging processes.