A new study published in the journal CELL METABOLISM shows that cutting the caloric intake of study subjects by 15% for 2 years slowed aging, and metabolism. Further, their findings indicate that this may protect against the development of age-related disease. As a result of the calorie restriction, they found a reduction in systemic oxidative stress, which is linked to age-related neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, as well as cancer and diabetes. Study author Prof L. Redman, of Pennington Biomedical Research in Baton Rouge, LA., says, “If by-products of metabolism accelerate aging processes, calorie restriction sustained over several years may help to decrease risk for chronic disease and prolong life.” In this study 53 healthy, non-obese men and women between ages 21 and 50 cut calories by 15% over 2 years and underwent measurements for metabolism and oxidative stress.Those in the calorie restriction group lost an average of almost 20 lbs. No adverse effects occurred in any subject. A benefit was also found in improvements in mood and quality of life. Dr Redman explained, “We found that even people who are already healthy and lean may benefit from a calorie restriction regimen.” He teaches that current theory in the field holds that a slower metabolism is most beneficial for healthy aging.