Calorie Restriction: Life Extension or Self-Starvation?
Cutting calories isn't just for dieters anymore. A growing number of people are embracing extreme, calorie-restricted diets in the hopes that it will drastically extend their lifespan...to 120 or beyond. (See also "Extreme Calorie Restriction for Long Life" on MSNBC.com).
Proponents of Calorie Restriction (or CR) typically eat 30-40% fewer calories than it would take to maintain what is generally considered to be a "healthy" weight. They generally lose quite a bit of weight before stabilizing at a much lower body weight. The motivation for such extreme deprivation? Animal studies in everything from fruit flies to primates indicate that CR can extend the maximum lifespan of the animal in question as much as 20 or 25%. There are no human studies verifying that CR will have the same effect on humans, but short-term studies show that CR does reduce biomarkers for aging along with lowering the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes. For many, that's evidence enough.
CR is a difficult lifestyle. Many who practice it admit to dealing with constant hunger and obsession with food. In a society where every social situation and celebration seems to focus on food, the CR lifestyle can be isolating. It's also time-consuming. When you are eating very few calories, it becomes difficult to ensure adequate intake of protein, essential fatty acids, and vitamins and minerals. There is literally no room for empty calories and meticulous meal planning and tracking becomes a necessity. (Nutrition Data has a big following in the CR community because our dietary analysis tools make it easier to practice Calorie Restriction with Optimal Nutrition, or CRON.)
Whatever its potential benefits, CR is obviously too austere for the vast majority of the (mostly overweight) population. And, predictably, the biotech companies are racing to develop drugs that will mimic the beneficial effects of CR without the deprivation. But in the meantime, CR is attracting more and more baby-boomers determined to forestall the march of time.
What's your personal view on calorie restriction? Would you be willing to put up with daily hunger in exchange for 10, 20, or even 30 extra healthy years?
Please add any additional comments below.
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Posted by: Sie | Oct 10, 2009 12:34:56 PM
I noticed someone asking about CRON and the paleo diet. I just started a blog about my paleo-CRON lifestyle. I have so many discussions (on the internet and in real life) on what and how I eat, I decided to just start a blog.
Check it out if you are curious. :-)
Posted by: Shannon | Oct 7, 2009 12:53:14 AM
I practiced this unknowingly for almost 6 years. I'm 5'10" and dropped to 101lbs. I could barely walk up the stairs. It was eventually diagnosed as anorexia but I never thought of it that way because I always ate and was very careful I got the proper nutrients everyday. It is very unhealthy, at least for me. I wouldn't recommend anyone eat that few amount of calories for an extended amount of time. You are basically starving your body of much needed energy even if you are getting the "proper amount of nutrients" from the foods you eat. Over the past 2 months I have gained a healthy 25lbs and I feel fantastic!!! I'm back at the gym and have the energy I need to be a good mother and wife and live a full active life.
Posted by: Natalie | Aug 11, 2009 11:47:15 PM
This preceding article mentions that there are "no human studies" done on CR but that's incorrect. One need look no further than The Okinawa Program to see such a study. It's true that CR can extend your life, because the island of Okinawa has the most centenarians (people living over age 100) than any other place in the world. The body is a furnace, and if it overheats it burns out more quickly; it's like putting all your kindling on the fire at once instead of just one stick at at time. That said, one should not restrict calories too much, too soon according to age. Younger people need more in order to get by, but the older you get, the less you need. Read the Okinawa Program and the Okinawa Diet Plan to learn more -- they were eye opening and changed my life.
Posted by: ETF | Aug 1, 2009 9:41:58 PM
Who wants to go around hungry for 120 years just so you can spend the last 30 or 40 years of it with your skinny butt strapped in a wheelchair in a nursing home. Im not condoning gluttony by any means but the key to a happy , healthy life is moderation in everything that you do.
Posted by: honig1234 | Jul 24, 2009 9:29:40 AM
check out this link for primary caregivers of patients with an eating disorder
http://www.e-mental-health.eu/anorexia/website/eating.php
Posted by: patricia | Jun 9, 2009 1:00:46 PM
I am 71 years old and just watched an obese cousin (my age) die of the complications of diabetes. I am overweight and out of shape with high blood pressure and cholesterol. I am now analyzing everything I eat with a target daily calories of 1,300. I am actually eating less than 1,000 on most days I've recorded in the past couple of weeks. I feel much better when my intake is low and my protein comes from sources other than any dense or fatty meat. Fruits, Veggies, low fat Dairy, Legumes, Whole Grains form the basis of my daily meal plans. Dinner is generally a low calorie soup with bread. It's too early to see the results but I am hoping for the best. I consider that slightly hungry and needy feeling to be 'spiritual' and look for it on a daily basis.
Posted by: patricia | Jun 9, 2009 12:34:25 PM
I tried calorie restriction during Lent in 1992 and discovered the fact that I LIKE feeling that edgy hunger and denial of not sating myself at every meal. While I have not been a serious and regular practitioner I am currently considering a lifestyle change to include calorie restriction with the blessings of my medical practitioner.
Posted by: Sherry | May 24, 2009 7:14:29 PM
Restricting calorice intake is indeed a great idea as long as you make sure you are eating the right kinds of foods. Fruits, veggies, nuts, everything good for you is great of course. It practicing good eating habits, and in time, it becomes easier, like second nature. I do not believe it is a component to an eating disorder. It is a lifestyle change. Not eating meat, dairy, and fast foods are critical in making wiser choices. I am 5'3 1/2 and weigh just 103 pounds. I am 53 years old. I look like I'm 40, some say less than that also. With or without makeup. It's a mind set. Age is just another number and you don't have to physically or mentally believe that. You can keep yourself healthy with a great diet and a great outlook!
Posted by: Aaron Daluz Curley | Apr 28, 2009 9:25:48 PM
Okinawans are practicing Calorie Restriction for hundreds of years and they have the highest life expectancy than any other ethnic group in the world. Okinawan diet is low in saturated fats and they eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. It is not true that Low calorie diet is low in essential fatty acids, protein and essential vitamins and minerals Okinawans diet is actualy high in omega 3 fatty acids and United States don't actually get the right amount of omega 3 fatty acids and essential vitamins and minerals. An ordinary Okinawan may consume maximum of 1200 calories a day. That is only 60% of Daily Values which is 2000 and it is also 3 times lower than United United Stated(per capita) which is 3770 calories a day. Imagine those calories. Their are over 300 million people in United States. 1/4 of that is enough to supply the energy needs of hungry sub saharan african people.
Posted by: James | Apr 12, 2009 1:29:05 AM
Be careful of Calorie Restriction, as I lived that way for the past ten years after hearing of such life extension possibilities. I was diagnosed two years ago with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, persistent Atrial Fibrillation and have been in and out of Heart Failure quit a few times. Needless to say, eating MORE food, changing my diet drastically has improved my health and quality of life.
Do I think that a CR diet led to my loss of health? Well I will be 35 years old in May 2009, I am male, I have lived an active life and yes, genetics play a vital role in the form of heart condition that I have. But yes, a CR diet may have led to my discomfort...
Posted by: T. P. | Mar 15, 2009 1:29:16 PM
Caloric Restriction is in no way form of anorexia or Obsessive Compulsive Disorder or even behavior. Quite the contrary. There is not a large amout of data yet on a limited caloric intake diet, but all of it seems to show that it increases life expectancy. There is starting to show that INCREASED caloric intake IS a correlate with DECREASED life expectancy. For these reasons, a caloric-reduced diet is at least worth consideration. Another main component of this arguement is to look at the average caloric intake of the average American citizen, and how much elevated it is compared with the rest of the world, and how poorly our overall health is compared. We are the leader in many things, but it seems being healthy does not predominate.
A diet where lean proteins, vegetables, fruits, nuts, berries, heathly fats and limited complex carbohydrate intake (look at what seem to be the most successful forms of eating and where lots of "diets" are leaning) IS in itself limited in its calories compared to the comparitively nutrient-less-dense carbohydrate filled diet of our country.
If you would like some very good resources on Caloric Restriction I suggest you visit the Caloric Restriction Society, http://www.calorierestriction.org/ , or even a web-blog by the nutritionist Robb Wolf, www.robbwolf.com , or Arthur Devany, http://www.arthurdevany.com/ , to learn more of the intricacies and ask your questions. (Let it also be known that the latter 2 of those also have a strong belief in exercises contributions to the results of health and fitness.) Leave the debate to the authorities!
Posted by: Gary MOrgan | Feb 26, 2009 11:54:21 AM
I am 65years old had heart stents put in on 9th of Jan 2009 I am diebetic and over weight i weigh 299 and am 6foot 4 inches tall
Posted by: Marian G | Feb 14, 2009 5:32:19 PM
I am very surprised by the violence and vehemence with which many of the negative opinions are expressed in this discussion. This reflects current media content - little real data, just a bunch of opinions mascarading as "analysis."
For the most part, those posters who actually looked at the research or attempted calorie restriction with optimal nutrition appear to find it neither difficult nor disgusting. A brief look at the website for the Calorie Restriction Society explains CR and contrasts it with anorexia for those of you who have concerns. Regarding the televised meal of two individuals, I suggest we remember that the extremes of a few NEVER reflect the general expression of any lifestyle choice. This couple is in a scientific study and must use extra care and precision. Can we all just grow up a little and examine our choices based on evidence? This would be so much more helpful to those who have questions. If you feel the CR lifestyle is not for you, why justify your opinions with cruel, judgemental and negative comments about those who do? Just the facts, please. Peace, and thank you.
Posted by: wyldeflowre | Jan 28, 2009 2:13:29 PM
PS: Please forgive: I forgot to mention that I'm keeping daily sodium intake below 1200mg, which also is known to have good effect on Heart Health!
Posted by: wyldeflowre | Jan 28, 2009 1:36:21 PM
After many years of practicing CRON and feeling great,I fell off the wagon; gained weight, Cholesterol soared, A1C likewise went up, RA worsened, BMI from low-normal to above normal; vision changed, and I NEVER really felt GOOD; mediocre was my 'best' and my norm was far less than that! Following lab work on 1/7/09, I returned to CRON with nutritional tracking aid from NutritionData and already have my BMI back to high-normal. Currently am staying under 1800cal/day; keeping Gylcemic Load under 100 for most days; and paying close attention to IF. As my weight returns to my former normal, I will slowly reduce my caloric intake. So far have lost 3 lbs. in 14 days and don't want to lose any faster; as I've read that during weight loss, toxins are released from fat into the blood stream and it can take awhile for these toxins to exit the body. For me the most important factor was MINDSET; I've not felt deprived at any point, carry food wherever I go so that if others are eating I can eat as well. I am reducing my intake of red meat, overall animal protein consumption, and empty calories and increasing grains and legumes, fish, and yogurt. Also taking supplements. I'll try to remember to post an update around middle March. May God richly bless the reader.
Posted by: tess | Jan 26, 2009 5:41:54 PM
I was horrified watching the CRS members on 60 minutes last night. They seemed so listless and palsyed. You could tell by their speach that their brain function was impaired. Eating baby food as appetizers they should have just called it for what it was a poo-poo platter. It might have seemed more realistic if they were biking, swimming or some activity but they could barely move. So what if the guys wife looked 20 years younger naked, her face looked 20 years older with a boy body. He didn't look like he was going to be chasing her around the bedroom. The article said the study was done on 25 members ages 41 to 64. All these people seemed to be in their 80's. These people are obsessed and delussional. I'll take it from my 94 year old neighbor who golfs 3 times a week, has his dinner cocktail or a glass of wine and then a dish of ice cream for dessert. I'll be running around with my grand- children and hopefully theirs and when it's time for me to go it'll be with a bite of salsa not baby food.
Posted by: Common Sense | Jan 24, 2009 6:52:19 PM
To all of you lazy worthless people out there...Get off of your ass and exercise. The best way to a long healthy life is activity. This is only an estimate but I would imagine that 100% of the people expressing their made-up pros of CR are inactive lazy 75lb morons. Get off of your butts and do something and quit trying to push your eating disorders on other people.
Posted by: JLL | Dec 9, 2008 5:07:47 PM
Caloric restriction seems like the most promising way to live longer for now, but in my experience it's quite difficult to do:
http://inhumanexperiment.blogspot.com/search/label/caloric%20restriction
On the other hand, intermittent fasting has been much easier and, based on studies on rats, may lengthen lifespan as well:
http://inhumanexperiment.blogspot.com/search/label/intermittent%20fasting
Posted by: jj | Nov 25, 2008 2:41:47 PM
You really have to watch the video on the msnbc website. The couple featured look like living skeletons. The woman considers lemon juice in water, a "course". They eat breakfast, a light lunch and starve themselves from 1pm until 8am the next day, so that's basically 19 hours of starvation. Pretty ridiculous and unrealistic. So what, do you skip any and all social functions too unless they have raw sweet potatoes or lemon juice on hand? They weigh their food with gram scales like they are scientists (as if just eating a light breakfast and lunch isn't restricting enough). I didn't hear them talking about eating any protein source like meat, dairy or legumes either. Mostly vegetables and frozen fruit. It's kinda ridiculous considering it isn't even proven that you really do live longer. We are not mice, we are humans. And those poor monkeys living lives out in steel cages being starved. What a society we live in. How about just eating healthy foods, in moderate portions And get off your ass and exercise more. The couple featured looked like they could barely walk. You could not for instance go play a great game of tennis after starving yourself for 8 hours during the day and expect to function well. Lastly if you listen to the woman - she keeps repeating that she "takes so long to eat." She has to discipline herself not to string out her meals for a long period. This sounds exactly what anorectics do - make a meal out of a corn flake because they know they will be starving for 19 hours following that meal.
Posted by: Daniel K | Oct 27, 2008 12:59:50 AM
This article that I read about C. elegans shows that perhaps its not the mental state of calories restriction, as in annorexia nervosa, by the biochemistry of metabolism and aging. Read more at: http://www.biologynews.net/archives/2008/10/24/deprived_of_a_sense_of_smell_worms_live_longer.html?utm_id=1000&utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=Newsletter
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Posted by: R | Oct 19, 2008 7:02:50 PM
I tried it, without intending to, because for me it started as a form of OCD (calorie counting to stay under 2000 kcal/day). It didn't cause any noticeable weight loss because I was already slim; instead I completely stopped menstruating and lost oestrogen -- going through a false menopause in my early 20s! It caused horrific personality changes, hot flushes, obsession with food, constant bloating, etc.
Nutrition research that doesn't take into account sex differences (possibly this doesn't happen to guys or is not as obvious) is dangerously stupid. Appetite for the average normal-weight person is a far better regulator of 'calories' than any counter. I wish the issue was better publicised, because the vulnerable young girls who go for fad diets are precisely those most at risk from the effects of calorie restriction.
Posted by: JC | Oct 10, 2008 12:29:38 PM
I've been on CR for about 5 months and noticed that my personality has changed dramatically--I'm very irritable and intolerant. Does anyone know if CR changes the body chemistry to the point where it could change personality like this? Thanks...
Posted by: C.S. | Oct 3, 2008 9:51:44 PM
I believe that calorie restriction would work ultimately by controlling insulin output (aging hormone from what i've read from various sources).
You could accomplish the same thing by cutting down your carbohydrate intake (especially refined) and spare yourself the food deprivation.
I guess the choice would be different depending on the person. If they prefer to eat whatever they want for carbs and sugar and don't mind the calorie restriction, or don't mind dropping carb level (restricting many food types) down so that they can eat until comfortably full
Posted by: Horatio Pringle | Sep 27, 2008 6:36:00 PM
If you look into CRON diets comprehensively, you will find that a person can live that lifestyle easily. The statement that CRON is difficult is laughable. I have been eating a healthy diet of mostly whole grains, nuts, seeds, fruits and vegetables, with some salmon and other fish, for about a year. Only recently, when I began tracking my calorie intake, did I realize that I was effectively on a CRON diet! It happened for me very naturally as a result of taking a proactive stance toward my nutrition, and educating myself as much as I possibly could on health and medical science. The bottom line is that if you eat a healthy diet, you will very likely have a moderate degree of calorie restriction. By BMI is 20.5, and I am 6 feet 3 inches tall, yet I only eat about 1,500 to 1,800 calories a day, despite a 6 day a week exercise regimine combining weightlifting and running. I am thin, but by no means emaciated. And best of all, I feel a thousand times happier.
The statement that CRON is socially isolating is simply bizzare. Eating in a unique way will not cause your friends to abandon you. It might even prompt them to follow suit and take charge of their own nutrition.
And as for baby-boomers staring CRON, golly gee. To really be effective, prevention has to start early. It is too bad that so many young twenty-somethings waste their oppurtunities, only to try, to some extent in vain, to regain them 20 years later. In addition to saving your money (invested in hard assets, of course) with a frugal lifestyle, maintain a comprehensive strategy of nutrition, exercise, and preventive medicine in your twenties, and you may find yourself living into the 22nd century with a smile on your face, a spring in your step and plenty of money.
Posted by: alan | Sep 22, 2008 3:44:19 PM
I obsessed with this for a while, taking in only the minimal amount of calories to sustain life...I would eat a granola or protein bar every 4-5 hours in a 17 hour day, and I was constantly preoccupied with insuring that my muscles were receiving the proper nutrition - so as to prevent further deterioration. My thinking was unclear, it was as though I was always in a sleepy daze...I'm 18 years old, male, 120 pounds and was consuming an estimable 1800 calories per day.
It depends on the energy with which you really want to approach life. I'm not myself when I'm restricted on calories. Things like social interaction and simple conversation no longer come naturally, and my ability to focus deteriorates.
Posted by: Dr. Doug Ikeler | Sep 8, 2008 8:32:48 PM
The Greatest New Book on Life Extension has just been released. See it at www.lifeextensionbooks.net
Posted by: Doug | Aug 14, 2008 12:14:26 PM
Wanda - I'm like you: I don't consciously "practice" CR, I've just never had a big appetite. I eat around 1,300 to 1,500 calories a day as well. I've had trouble eating more, in fact. I've been working with a personal trainer for about two months, and she's telling me I should be taking in about 1,800 to 2,000 calories a day. My body simply doesn't like eating that much! That's been my most difficult adjustment - eating more. I think being busy, doing a lot of things will take a person's mind off of food. I have a hard time sitting still, so I'm not apt to spend a lot of time eating. I also think people do as much damage to themselves worrying about what they eat as they do with what they actually eat! Metron ariston, meden agan!
Posted by: Wanda | Jul 22, 2008 1:03:44 PM
I'm probably practicing CR, without even knowing it. I usually consume about 1,300 calories/day. However, I'm not hungry or obsessed with foods I can't eat. For example, I begin my day w/a cup of cereal (like Special-K), 1/2 cup of soy, skim milk (just love it!!!), and a cup of coffee w/skim milk-that's under 300 calories. If i feel hungry in the mid-morning, I'll have a yogurt (usually Activia, light version, about 70 calories). For lunch, I'll have a salad w/fat free or calorie free dressing. My salad will include always a form of protein like chicken. Other days, I'll have a subway sandwich; or fish and veggies. My lunch is very varied and usually, under 400-500 calories. In the mid-afternoon, I'll have a yogurt, or oatmeal and raisins cookies, baked. At night time for dinner, I'll either have more special-K w/skim milk; or anything healthy that I didn't have for lunch. It's always varied, so I don't get bored. During the weekends when I have a little bit more time, I usually will make for breakfast an omellet w/veggies and eg whites and a toast; or whole wheat pancakes (1/4 cup), prepared w/skim milk, no butter but use cooking spray instead, 2 slices of ham (turkey ham), a syrup made w/splenda. That's just so you have an idea. I just enjoy what I eat, and since I work out at least 5 times/week, whenever I feel like having a cheesecake slice, I have it!
Posted by: Daniel | Jun 22, 2008 1:27:18 PM
I feel that people that benefit from CR are not infact going lower than the calories to maintain their bodies but are actually eating the amount they are supposed to. To me, 1800 doesn't seem to be that restrictive especially if you are a smaller person. I worry about excess cortisol on these diets.
Posted by: Kat | Apr 29, 2008 6:27:57 PM
I am pretty sure that humans can experience some benefits from temporary fasting, but extended periods of calorie restriction will lead to starvation.
Most animals that I am aware of go through periods of bounty, where they eat as much as possible, and starvation, where times are tough and they live of reserves. I believe humans may benefit from similar experiences but we would need to be careful to mimic the patterns of the past or else we would just be setting ourselves up for more diseases.
Posted by: Andres | Apr 2, 2008 5:40:57 PM
I actually eat around 1400 to 1500 at max everyday. For me it is very easy for the reason that I get satisfied with very small amounts of food. Is this bad or good? I also spend hours exercising everyday, a minimum of 1 hour. I have never tried restricting my food intakes, i just eat amounts that satisfy me and using the pantry and calculator tools of ND i have discovered that my daily food intake does not go over 1500.
Posted by: Jackie V olkov | Mar 23, 2008 10:45:31 PM
I have lots of energy for everything I do. I eat raw fruit and vegetables, absolutely raw fresh caught sea fish,raw egg yolks(2, two or three times a week)raw soups and that's it. No grains.Sometimes some absolutely raw yoghurt too. I feel a million dollars, cycle up to 50 kms most days, walk, garden and swim. I go to bed about 8.30pm and get up when I wake up..usually about 4.30 to 5am. I am 69 years chronologically speaking but in fact my 'age' is indeterminate.I have just finished my annual long fast. This year it was forty days and forty nights long..a total water fast. I am in reecovery mode following that now. I feel healthy and very very well.
Posted by: Quinn | Mar 10, 2008 9:06:35 AM
Six years ago in an attempt to lose weight, I restricted my diet and would not eat after 2pm except for sipping tea. I ate fruit thru the morning, drank tea and had a salad with lots of veggies for lunch with some protein. I lost weight and felt the best I ever had in my life. More energy, happier etc.I exercised and generally had more energy for everything. I maintained that for three years and then the eating and weight increased for another 3 years. I am now sluggish and stuck in a rut however I am going to restrict my calorie intake again. It worked the best for me as most diets are a pain to follow and I have not been as successful as I was before. I can;t wait to feel better!
Posted by: Enough Wealth | Jan 1, 2008 4:20:59 AM
I was slightly overweight in high school and slowly drifted towards obese during my uni days. I eventually managed to stick to a CRAN eating plan during my mid thirties and reduced my weight from around 100kg (BMI approx 32) to 70 kg (BMI approx 22) over a two year period. I switched from eating around 3,000-3,500 kcals a day (with junk food snacking and dessert after dinner) to sticking with a standard menu than I ate almost every day. It had a healthy balance of protein, carbs and fat and adequate dietary fibre (much more fruit and veg that I'd eating before). The total kcals was around 1,8000 so it wasn't an extreme form of CRAN, and didn't leave me constantly hungry once I adapted to the new menu. At that time I was doing aerobic and weight training at the gym three times a week, and got quite fit. Unfortunately I then changed jobs and stopped going to the gym after work. After getting married and having kids I also stopped eating according to my CRAN menu, and slowly put on weight again. I've now been back up around 95-105kg for several years and need to lose weight and exeercise. This year I've restarted eating according to my CRAN plan and should be able to lose about 0.5-1.0 kg per week until I stabilise around 65-70 kg by year's end. Coupled with a 30 min walk each lunchtime this should improve my health and be a sustainable lifestyle over the long term. Whether or not it extends my lifespan doesn't really matter (and starting CRAN again at 46 it's unlikely to have much effect), it should improve the quality of whatever my lifespan turns out to be.
Regards
http://enoughwealth.com
Posted by: John Kerr | Nov 28, 2007 2:01:14 AM
Has anyone out there on a CRON diet tried the Paleo diet? I would like some feed back on anyone who has tried this protein intense regimen. Could it possibly be healthy? I am not promoting any one diet. Just looking for more information. I am convinced that a CRON diet is the way to go.
Posted by: Bill Merritt | Nov 27, 2007 1:49:27 PM
I have just started researching CR for my health (quad bypass, Type II diabetes, not particularly overweight or out-of-shape or poor diet). I have not yet discussed with my doctor but initially the justifications and benefits seem sound and well documented. In response to the eating-disorder comments, anorexia is for body image, CR is for health.
Posted by: rodney | Nov 14, 2007 11:15:28 AM
Monica: The best and most comprehensive answer to your question would be to read: 'Beyond the 120-Year Diet' - Dr Roy Walford, a gerontologist at UCLA for 30 years and the foremost authority on CR.
And/or read 'Longevity Diet' - Lisa Walford.
Posted by: Yvonne Murray | Nov 9, 2007 7:15:01 AM
I'm over weight and working toward losing my extra weight. I was 275 pounds now I'm 200. I'm off my dibetic meds.I have OA and Fibromyalgia been sick for twenty years with it.The weight watcher wants women to eat 1200 a day that is close to. And men are to eat 1800 a day that is close to Cr.All the dietican that I went to told me 1200-1400 and day, close to CR. Cr is around the same for men and women.I feel sicker than my thin mother-inlaw who was size 4-5 she is 91 and she just has a few problems. She has normal blood normal blood pressure. She is in better health than me. I'm a good example of what over eating dose. My mother inlaw is a good example of CR. By the way she still grows her own food. All of her friends died years ago they went has thin. I hoping to get down to 1100 a day.And I know it will help me with my problems in life and I know it will help me live longer. Yvonne
Posted by: Monica Reinagel | Nov 6, 2007 1:39:22 PM
would anyone currently practicing CRON like to post a typical meal plan so that people can get a sense of what it's like? If you would, enter your mealplan as if it were a recipe in your pantry and click analyze. Then, post the URL of the anlysis here. Users can load that URL to see your meal plan and the ND analysis (no-one will have access to your pantry).
Posted by: Bob | Nov 6, 2007 1:25:52 PM
We practice it CRON. We have foods we like to eat. We like the fruits and veggies. It changed our blood biomarkers all for the better. That in and of itself speaks volumes to what it can do in the fight against obesity in our society and others. It gives a way for people to overcome troubling diseases. We enjoy our life and seek to live on this beautiful blue orb as long as possible to enjoy our families and those who love us. The optimum nutrition part gives us the opportunity to really evaluate what we eat. We love pie and doughnuts. Do we eat them all the time, nope. Do we have treats once in a while? Yes. Life is for living!
Posted by: Otto Hunt | Nov 6, 2007 12:52:01 PM
I also practice CR. At age 52, I have more energy than 90% of men my age. Mostly I only avoid bread and other (nutritionally deficient) starches, and gluttony in general. I almost never feel hungry. Life is good.
Posted by: Margo | Nov 6, 2007 10:22:01 AM
I didn't care for the choices in the voting questions. I practice a form of CR with the ON (optimal nutrition). There is no point in talking about CR without Optimal Nutrition. That is the only way in my opinion, and when talking about CR to anyone who asks, it comes down to my friends not wanting to give up "goodies" or take the trouble to even try it. It can be an obsession if you are not willing to let go of being rigid about it. Don't guess about what you are eating. Weigh and measure using the software to track nutrients, something that must be done in the beginning. After that you can ease up, and above all, enjoy your food, or what is the point? You could call it sensible feeding. I will eat a cookie at a meeting, and double up on greens at my next meal, it doesn't have to be hard.
Posted by: Rodney | Nov 5, 2007 12:49:41 PM
Also worth noting is that of the people who have voted in your poll, 16% are doing CR and 2.7% tried it and gave up.
In other words, of those voting who have tried CR, about 85% are still doing it. This appears to contradict the statements that it is just about impossible for anyone to continue doing it, does it not?
Posted by: Tony | Nov 5, 2007 10:45:46 AM
Monica's statement that "Proponents of Calorie Restriction (or CR) typically eat 30-40% fewer calories than it would take to maintain what is generally considered to be a 'healthy' weight" is not correct.
People practicing calorie restriction try to stay in the lower half of the normal BMI range as defined by the Institute of Medicine (normal: 18.5 to 25). Cutting calories below those needed to maintain a BMI of at least 18.5 is NEVER advised.
Posted by: Allen Smith | Nov 5, 2007 10:40:23 AM
It's quite possible to get in enough nutrients on a calorically restricted
diet - not only are there known diet plans for this, but we and
mice/etcetera are not very different, and caloric restriction has been
proven to work on them since the 30s. Current research on primates is
likewise looking promising.
In regard to the amount by which CR could extend life, I would say that CR
is more promising not as much as a means to do it in and of itself to a
degree justifying the trouble, but as a means of getting one (with less
damage) to when scientists (like me) can do other, less troublesome means of
lifespan extension.
In regard to the claims of "caloric restriction is only good for weight
loss"... I would personally say that any diet that one cannot follow for
many, many _years_ is not going to be a sustainable means of weight loss -
one will gain it back. Permanent reduction in caloric intake (and/or
increase in exercise expenditure of calories, but that doesn't help with
extending maximum lifespan) is the only means of doing it.
And in regard to the poster who was bemoaning the extra years of life being
at the end - as well as what I wrote above about extending one's life to
where other treatments have developed further, CR actually has been shown to
delay a lot of the diseases of aging also. CR mice don't typically die of
anything very obvious, nor painful (not of cancer) - they die in their
sleep, most frequently.
Finally, I note several people thinking that CR is an eating disorder. I
suggest that this reaction may be due to being defensive about one's eating
habits and/or the prevalence of various eating disorders in our culture (the
most notable one being _overeating_, of course, as witness the rising rates
of obesity...). Put simply, anorexia is quite unhealthy; people doing CR are
interested in being healthy.
Posted by: Rodney | Nov 5, 2007 10:01:44 AM
Wow. Nearly 50% of respondents say that "life is long enough" that they don't want to live longer?
Well I do CR (male, ~1800 calories) and enjoy life so much I want as much of it as possible! If you enjoy life enough to want more of it CR is the only practical method currently known to science to extend maximun lifespan.
Check out the cardiovascular health biomarkers of people on CR (Fontana and Holloszy - study on effects of CR on the risk factors for atherosclerosis in humans). If you have known people in their final years with long lingering heart problems then, imo, you would want to do CR just to avoid that.
Posted by: Prof. TKG Namboodhiri | Nov 5, 2007 9:45:07 AM
Calorie restriction within limits may be good for older people leading a sedantary life.But I do not subscribe to a life of starvation in order to increase my life span (If it is true!).I will rather adjust my calorie intake to match my activities and body requirements.
Posted by: Monica Reinagel | Oct 29, 2007 2:38:03 PM
Check out this new research, reported by Life Extension Foundation:
http://www.lef.org/newsletter/2007/2007_10_26.htm?source=eNewsLetter2007Wk43-2&key=archive
Posted by: Brian Brown Fleming | Oct 13, 2007 9:54:50 AM
We are so twisted as a nation of people. Everthing is extremist form food to views on sex. I saw that NY coupole profiled on telvision who follow this lifestyle. The woman and man both looked 10 years older than I thought they were. The woman had no figure and looked like a sack of bones. The man looked exhausted ands gaunt. They were dancing (for their daily exericse!) and it made me sick, lifeless and slack and painfully dragging.
The notion of never eating a slice of apple pie or a french fry even if I only do it once a year is not worth extra years. Face it people those extra years dont come bewteen 230-40. They come at 80. Oh joy!
Posted by: Jo Dee | Oct 12, 2007 6:13:26 PM
CR sounds a lot like an eating disorder - I doubt you would be able to get all the carbs, protein, fat, calcium, fiber and vitamins/minerals you need for a healthy body by eating in such a low-cal way. Even if it is proven to extend your lifespan wouldn't you rather enjoy the occasional treat than always be obsessing about what you eat? Life is for living, not starving yourself!
Posted by: Jonathan Benson | Oct 12, 2007 8:24:15 AM
CR isn't a form of dieting, starvation or eating disorder. It's simply not partaking in the indulgence that surrounds today's society.
I believe people on healthy CR shouldn't feel hungry all the time, or obsess over food. It's quite easy for find meals you know the approx. calorie count and work your eating patterns around these foods.
It's a very healthy way to live, you'd be amazed by the amount of issues that can be overcome by simply eating less. Even if you're not gaining weight you can still be eating too much which leaves undigested food entering the large intestine to be digested by bacteria which release all sorts of toxins.
Jon
Posted by: Tylerq | Oct 12, 2007 12:03:52 AM
If CR is maintained at a healthy level, I think it is perfectly fine, especailly for a more short-term goal: weight loss. Obviously eating only 1000 cals or less a day can be unhealthy, but how do you explain the religious rituals that promote fasting and the cleansing that it brings. Trust your body signs and make sure you get proper nutrients - but CR at a reasonable rate probably does extent life spans.
Posted by: Melissa | Oct 11, 2007 4:10:39 PM
I agree, it sounds like borderline eating disorder. The body still needs nutrients. I've lost a lot of weight on Weight Watchers and have been more or less maintaining for three years now eating less than I did PRE-WW...it's a lifestyle change that involves, yes, cutting out calories and burning more through exercise... but it's by no means an issue of self-starvation. I think that is dangerous....
Posted by: Heather | Oct 11, 2007 1:04:50 PM
This sounds an awfully lot like justification for anorexia.
Posted by: Marcus Koestler | Oct 11, 2007 5:58:11 AM
sometimes have no problems to stay at 2000 cals a day with raw fruits and vegetables some dark bread joghurt and fish, especially when making sports.
But I do not force it. I think 20-30 years is not a lifespan to struggle for. maybe for 100 years? :-)
Posted by: CarolG | Oct 10, 2007 9:53:14 PM
Maybe some practitioners of CRON enjoy the structure. But I would fear that it is a form of anorexia nervosa for some or could be a path to OCD.
Is there a clear cut way for a person to know that their patient/friend/loved one is safely practicing CRON and not falling into unhealthy behaviors?
