Eat Less Food and Play More Bridge

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We have known for some time that caloric restriction relates to longevity and functional health in animals. This has been well documented and discussed in previous blogs from Fit brains. However, the issue of whether caloric restriction also benefits humans has been less clear. It’s also obvious and important to note how difficult caloric restriction can be for humans, particularly when such reduction in calories is significant.
Much work is done on the quality of what is consumed when one reviews the many dietary plans offered on the market. Less is focused on the quantity and it is generally true that those living in western nations over-consume. This has resulted in an alarming increase in obesity and diabetes, including a significant number of cases emerging in childhood.
The balance of sugars and insulin in our bodies is very important. An unhealthy balance can lead to diabetes and multiple other medical problems, some of which affect the brain such as stroke and dementia. We now know that what we eat affects both the structure and function of our brain and more attention is now focused on both the quality and quantity of our diets.

Dr. Paul Nussbaum of WA 2:46PM July 15, 2009

Low calorie diets trigger cell enzymes that protect the body and reduce the effects of aging. Basically they activate the "aging genes" in ones body.
Is this not any different than having an intake of resveratrol?

Josh of MN 12:25PM July 15, 2009

I've been a tournament bridge player since 1978, and as time goes on, I see more obese folks at tournaments. One tournament venue I've played at tapes plastic bags to each card table because so many players are too fat and lazy to bring their trash a paltry 50 feet to a garbage can. Tournaments sometimes offer free refreshments - what a zoo scene! Have you ever seen a mob of people, none of whom have missed a meal in 40 years, yell and push and shove and act as a pack of starved wolves? It's pathetic. Even more absurd is the sight of some fat glutton complaining that someone else got a bigger piece of cake. Don't get me wrong - I love Bridge and I find most players to be friendly, cultured, and smarter than average.It's just that free food brings out the worst in so many of them.

Paul Kopelman of NJ 12:24PM July 15, 2009

Haven't there also been studies that show playing musical instruments and doing word/mathematical puzzles (keeping your mind busy/active) also help stave off the negative points brought about by solitary or not so solitary old age? If you don't know the answer is yes to the latter I'm not sure on the former. I can only hope that I find some grumpy old men to play cards with... soon.
The caloric restriction studies are fascinating. I've found I feel better when I eat less than the recommended caloric intake. With our now sedentary lives I think these suggestions are worth looking at for many of us. Especially those like myself unable to work out properly due to chronic pain.

MNCurmudgeon of MN 11:51AM July 15, 2009