Research Links Low Calories to Longevity

New study confirms it's not low fat or low carbohydrates that count, it's calories!

The Honolulu Star Bulletin reported today that a recently published study of 8,006 men of Japanese ancestry is &qout;...the first long-term study that links reduced caloric intake with the longevity of humans."

The study analyzed "...Honolulu Heart Program data on 8,006 men of Japanese ancestry" and concluded "A reduced calorie diet might lead to a longer life"

Dr. Bradley Willcox, co-creator of Okinawa Diet™, was the principal investator of the study.

Highlights from this story:

"The study confirms that it's not low fat or low carbohydrates that counts, it's calories,"

"..the study showed that risk of death dropped a third for men who ate fewer calories of about 1,900 calories a day or about 15 percent fewer than the group average of 2,300 calories a day.". The "...trend for lower mortality persisted all the way until people ate 50 percent fewer calories than the group average, which is exactly what you would see in animal studies."

The study "...suggests that the lower intake might have an impact on promoting longevity despite controlling factors that included differences in carbohydrates, fat or protein intake, physical activity, obesity and other factors."

"'Diets such as the popular Atkins diet that consist of high protein and fat and low carbohydrates appear to be effective for short-term weight loss for no more than six months to a year; however, there is no evidence of long-term effects,' said Dr. Katsuhiko Yano, co-founder of the Research Institute. 'The low caloric intake appears to be the best way not only to lose weight, but for overall health and prolonging the life span for human beings,'"

"Willcox said the book on the Okinawan diet he co-wrote with his twin brother, Dr. D. Craig Willcox of Okinawa Prefectural University, and Dr. Makoto Suzuki of Okinawa International University inspired him to do the study. The book, called 'The Okinawa Diet Plan: Get Leaner, Live Longer and Never Feel Hungry' was released in May and reveals a diet plan of foods that are low-fat, water-rich and high in fiber, such as sweet potatoes, soybeans and fish."