Longer life with calorie reduction

A canine study carried out by researchers at Imperial College London suggests a calorie-restricted diet might result in extended longevity.

According to the United Press International (UPI), the new study suggests some beneficial changes might relate to the activities of symbiotic bacteria that live in the intestinal tract.

Those microbes, the scientists said, produce a range of biochemicals that might influence disease processes and alter energy metabolism in host organisms.

Researchers said although their goal was to help develop diets that keep pets alive and healthy for as long as possible, the findings might also be relevant to human dietary changes and obesity. The study is scheduled for the May 4 issue of the Journal of Proteome Research.