Caloric Restriction Slows Brain Aging: Findings from a 20-Year Study.

Caloric Restriction and Brain Health

According to ТСН: Reducing caloric intake by 30% over an extended period may slow brain aging and prevent cognitive decline. A study conducted on rhesus monkeys showed that their brain cells remained metabolically active even in old age.

Experts from the University of Cambridge believe that cognitive decline is a common companion of aging, leading to slowed reactions and decreased adaptability. They found that brain aging could begin as early as 30 years old, when significant changes occur.

Researchers compared brain tissue from two groups of rhesus monkeys that died at ages corresponding to human 67–108 years. The study lasted over 20 years:

• One group received a balanced diet.

• The other group consumed approximately 30% fewer calories.

Dr. Tara L. Moore, a co-author of the study, noted that the process of brain aging in monkeys occurs similarly to that in humans, making the results particularly significant. After analyzing brain samples, researchers found that monkeys on caloric restriction had healthier and more functional brain cells.

Ana Vitantonio, another co-author of the study, emphasized:

“Caloric restriction is a well-known intervention that can slow biological aging, this study provides rare long-term evidence that caloric restriction may also protect against brain aging in humans.”

She also added that this restriction supports metabolic function in other parts of the body, positively impacting blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and kidney health.

For an adult, a 30% caloric restriction corresponds to an intake of approximately 1400 calories for women and 1900 calories for men. However, the reduction should be gradual and sustained to achieve noticeable results.

Nutritionists also warn about the dangers of ultra-processed foods, which accelerate aging due to high added sugar content, harmful fats, and artificial additives. These factors are associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, obesity, and dementia, particularly Alzheimer's disease.

Studies also show that Alzheimer's disease may be triggered not only by brain aging but also by certain bacterial infections, which could significantly alter approaches to its prevention and treatment.

A group of researchers led by microbiologist Jan Potempa from the University of Louisville discovered that an infection that starts in the oral cavity can colonize the brain and stimulate the production of beta-amyloid (Aβ) - a protein associated with the onset of the disease.

The results of this study open new perspectives in understanding the mechanisms of brain aging and influence potential strategies for the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases. This underscores the importance of not only being attentive to nutrition but also being aware of the risks associated with bacterial infections, which may aid in developing new methods to combat diseases that affect millions of people's lives.