How Much Should We Eat?
LEXINGTON, MA., Jan. 22, 2005 - Researchers in Hawaii and Japan are reporting remarkable results about the association between energy intake and mortality from a 36-year follow-up study to the Honolulu Heart Program. Their findings are consistent with previously reported results.
Laboratory animal studies - from the 1930's - observed that energy restriction prolongs life span and decreases risk for a wide range of age-related diseases.
Low energy intake extends the life span in species as diverse as protozoans, fruit flies, spiders, guppies, chickens, and dogs. These animal studies indicate that energy intake above a certain level shortens the life span, whereas lower intake, again, to a certain level (usually up to 50%-60% of the group mean) results in a life span extension of up to 50%!
Epidemiological studies of human populations in Japan observed a strong relationship between low energy consumption and long life.
The Okinawan Japanese, in particular, consume the least calories of any Japanese group and have the longest life expectancy, the highest percentage of centenarians, and the lowest mortality from diabetes, heart disease, and several cancers.
The Hawaiian researchers observed benefits only when caloric intake fell between 15% and 50% of the group mean. Benefits ceased and mortality increased when caloric intake fell below 50%. Conversely, mortality increased even in non-obese individuals who consumed calories at the level of 15% of the group mean or higher.
Findings from the study imply that what health professionals consider to be "normal" energy intakes may be too high. This study suggests that the less food we eat (without becoming too extreme), the better our health.
How Much Should We Eat?
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