Wednesday, April 05, 2006

Low-Calorie=Longer Life?

The New York Times recently published a study from the Pennington Biomedical Research Center at Louisiana State University that indicates consuming a low-calorie diet may lead to a longer life. Researchers found that a low-calorie diet lead to changes in metabolism and body chemistry, which not only lead to weight loss but slowed down the aging process as well. Most participants in the study reduced their caloric consumption by 25 percent.

Considering I eat an immense amount of chocolate everyday, I could easily reduce my caloric consumption by 25 percent – especially if it meant I might live longer. Also, I don’t have a lot of weight to lose, maybe 10 pounds, but I would really like to get it off before bathing suit season starts.

About a year ago I actually considered looking into the Calorie Restriction Society. Have y’all ever heard of this? These are people that drastically reduce their calories, not so much to lose weight, but in order to live a longer life. People following this way of life consume an absolute minimum amount of calories per day and strive for “calorie-sparse, nutrient-dense” foods.

I’m all for being healthy but I’m certainly not all for being hungry. When I get hungry I get mean! I think for now I’ll stick to my contract, keep chugging my delicious, calorie-free diet soda and try a little harder to hit the gym – I’ve yet to workout this week.

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