Eating Less May Not Extend Human Life: Caloric Restriction May Benefit Only Obese Mice

ScienceDaily (2009-01-26) -- Caloric restriction only benefits obese mice, according to a new study in the Journal of Nutrition. The results suggest that caloric restriction may not be a universally beneficial anti-aging strategy, as commonly believed.

I've blogged about the topic of calorie requirements a few times here. Despite what some diet "gurus" might say in order to sell you books, pills, and short term "solutions" that are really "illusions". Here's the truth:

A CALORIE RESTRICTED LIFESTYLE IS DETRIMENTAL TO LONG TERM FAT LOSS AND PRESERVATION OF LEAN MUSCLE.

Yes a caloric deficit is necessary to reduce your body weight, but that deficit should be a safe one. 15-20% of your body's energy requirements.

It's hard to pin down a clear definition here. To me, the term "calorie restriction" means that you are restricting your body from obtaining the calories and nutrients necessary for healthy functioning. I think knowing your body's requirements is the first step in avoiding this state.

It isn't all that hard to figure out your caloric requirements. It just takes a scale, a $15 pair of body fat calipers (or a scale that gives you your bodyfat%), and some simple math. In fact, you don't even have to do the math. I've already done that for you in my Total Daily Energy Expenditure calculator - which is always right here near the top right of this blog.

Let me refer you to an oldie but goodie that I posted a while back:

How Many Calories Should I Eat Each Day?