Cutting calories reduces the risk of cancer and Alzheimer’s.
Low calorie diet slows down metabolism and can help you live longer.
A recent study revealed that lowering calorie intake by 15%
over 2 years slowed aging and metabolism rates in human. Low calorie intake
also can protect against aging-associated diseases. Every time we metabolize
calories to generate energy in the body. We also generate free oxygen radicals,
which are the metabolic by products. These reactive oxygen species accumulate
in our bodies, causing oxidative stress overtime, this oxidative stress damages
our cells and organs which leads to shortened lifespan and accelerates aging.
It also linked to aging-associated diseases such as Alzheimer
and Parkinson. Oxidative damage can also cause cancer, diabetes, and other diseases.
Calorie-restrictive diet causes reduction in metabolic rate
by about 10%. A slow metabolism results in reduced oxidative stress which, in
turns, leads to less damage to cells and organs in the body.
Healthy eating habits can affect you mental health too. Eating
processed food increases your chances of becoming depressed. A study suggest
that healthy diet can reduce the symptoms of depression.
According to this study, healthy food can acts as a powerful
antidepressant with no negative side effects compared to anti-depressant pills.
In the study, adults with major depression were put on a healthy diet plan.
Their diet consist of:
Whole grains
Vegetables
Fruits
Olive oil
Legumes
Fish
Egg
Chicken
Lean
Red meats
While reducing intake of fried, fast foods, ultra processed
meats, sugary drinks, sweets and refined cereals. After 3 months of healthier eating, their depression scores
improved by 11 points 32% of the adult participants no longer had depression.
Diet can influence mental health through a number of
different pathways. Healthy food contains micronutrients that help our brain
better cope with daily stress. It also enhances our immune system, which can
fight against diseases efficiently. A poor diet can lead to chronic low-grade
inflammation which is a risk factor for diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease. Inflammation
also plays a role in causing depression. Research suggest that a healthy diet
may even be easier on your wallet.
