A recent experiment with mice suggests that reducing the amount of an amino acid called isoleucine in their diet can have several benefits.
The mice had longer lifespans, became leaner and less frail as they aged, and had reduced risks of cancer and prostate problems.
Surprisingly, these benefits occurred even when the mice ate more calories.
How it was discovered
Scientists have found that not all calories are the same, despite the saying "a calorie is a calorie."
Different components of our diet can have effects beyond just providing energy.
The researchers focused on isoleucine, an amino acid found in foods like eggs, dairy, soy protein, and meat.
One group received a balanced diet, another had a diet low in a group of amino acids, and the last group had a diet with two-thirds less isoleucine.
The mice on the low-isoleucine diet became leaner and lived longer, with males living 33% longer and females living 7% longer.
They also displayed better overall health.
Interestingly, the mice on the low-isoleucine diet ate more calories but burned them off more efficiently.
Their blood sugar levels remained stable, and male mice had reduced prostate enlargement.
Additionally, the male mice had a lower likelihood of developing tumors.
The mechanism behind these benefits is not yet fully understood, but amino acids are connected to a gene called mTOR, which influences aging in animals.
The researchers believe that further investigation can help uncover the causes.
Why it's important
While the results are promising, it's important to note that humans still need isoleucine to stay healthy.
It's not a simple task to eliminate isoleucine from the diet, especially without a properly formulated plan.
However, understanding the effects of isoleucine brings us closer to finding interventions for humans, such as medications that block isoleucine.
Previously, we talked about hibiscus benefits.
