Energy balance
Caloric restriction extends lifespan in diverse organisms, and sirtuins (specifically Sir2/SIRT1) are proposed mediators of this effect by sensing cellular energy status via NAD+ dependence.
Caloric restriction (eating ~20% fewer calories while maintaining nutrition) is the most robust non-genetic intervention for extending lifespan in mammals. This benefit is mechanistically linked to sirtuins, which act as energy sensors. While human lifespan extension is not yet proven, CR improves metabolic health markers (blood glucose, body fat) in primates. To leverage this, focus on nutrient-dense foods and moderate caloric intake, acknowledging that sirtuin activation requires functional NAD+ metabolism.
Sirtuins may underlie the beneficial effects of caloric restriction, the only regimen that slows aging and extends lifespan of most classes of organism, including mammals.
Why this rating
The paper is a review of mechanistic studies in yeast, worms, flies, and rodents; human data is limited to ongoing primate studies with benefits but unknown lifespan extension.
Source
Sirtuins in mammals: insights into their biological function
Shaday Michán et al. · Biochemical Journal · 2007
DOI 10.1042/bj20070140
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