A low-carb diet may be key to long life

New York Sep 6 (IANS) Consuming a ketogenic diet -- which is high fat low protein and low carbohydrates -- may not only help in weight loss but also increase longevity and improve physical strength says a recent study.

The study conducted on mice models showed a 13 per cent increase in median life span for the mice on a high fat versus high carbohydrate diet.

"In humans that would be seven to 10 years. But equally important those mice retained quality of health in later life " said nutritionist Jon Ramsey from the University of California - Davis.

In addition the ketogenic diet increased memory and motor function (strength and coordination) and prevented an increase in age-related markers of inflammation.

It also had an impact on the incidence of tumours as well the researchers said.

The older mice on the ketogenic diet had a better memory than the younger mice which is really remarkable the researchers said.

According to the study detailed in the journal Cell Metabolism eating a ketogenic diet ramps up the production of the ketone body beta-hydroxybutyrate acid (BHB) which helps improve memory and increases lifespan.

"This study indicates that a ketogenic diet can have a major impact on life and health span without major weight loss or restriction of intake. It also opens a new avenue for possible dietary interventions that have an impact on ageing " Ramsey said.

For the study mice were split into three groups: a regular rodent high-carb diet a low carb/high fat diet and a ketogenic diet (89-90 per cent of total calorie intake).

The ultimate goal is to find a way for humans to benefit from BHBs without having to go on a restrictive diet the researchers said.

--IANS
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