Hormonal
Protein restriction (specifically low-protein, high-carbohydrate diets) extends lifespan and improves metabolic health in model organisms, likely through mechanisms distinct from or overlapping with calorie restriction, such as elevated FGF21.
In model organisms, restricting protein (while keeping calories normal) extends lifespan and improves metabolic health, partly by boosting FGF21. However, this comes at the cost of muscle mass. For humans, high protein is generally recommended for muscle maintenance, but excessive intake might increase mortality risk. The optimal protein intake likely balances longevity benefits with the need to preserve physical resilience, suggesting a moderate approach rather than extreme restriction or excess.
Protein restriction represents an alternate nutritional intervention that improves longevity and health in model organisms... The beneficial effects of protein restriction on metabolism and longevity may come at a cost to lean mass and physical resilience.
Why this rating
Strong evidence in rodents/invertebrates, but human data is observational and mixed.
Source
Protein-Restricted Diets and Their Impact on Metabolic Health and Aging
Sora Q. Kim et al. · Annual Review of Nutrition · 2025
DOI 10.1146/annurev-nutr-121624-114918
More from this paper
- High protein intake is the most satiating macronutrient per calorie and promotes weight loss and fat loss when combined with calorie restriction, primarily by preserving lean mass and increasing energy expenditure.Good
- Current dietary guidelines (RDA of 0.8 g/kg) may be insufficient for older adults to prevent muscle loss, but exceeding this amount alone does not significantly improve strength or performance without resistance training.Moderate
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