Mixed
Long-term caloric restriction (3-15 years) significantly reduces the risk of atherosclerosis in humans by improving multiple metabolic risk factors and reducing carotid artery intima-media thickness.
To reduce atherosclerosis risk, long-term caloric restriction (approx. 75% of energy needs) focused on nutrient-dense whole foods can significantly improve metabolic health and arterial thickness. This approach requires strict adherence to high-quality food sources to ensure all nutrient needs are met despite lower calorie intake.
Based on a range of risk factors, it appears that long-term CR has a powerful protective effect against atherosclerosis. This interpretation is supported by the finding of a low carotid artery IMT.
Why this rating
Observational study with a small sample size (n=18 per group) and self-selected participants, though the magnitude of effect is large.
Source
Long-term calorie restriction is highly effective in reducing the risk for atherosclerosis in humans
Luigi Fontana et al. · Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences · 2004
DOI 10.1073/pnas.0308291101
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