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Caloric Restriction (CR)

Reduction in energy intake (typically 15-40%) without malnutrition, shown across model organisms to extend lifespan and healthspan, with active human research (CALERIE) demonstrating cardiometabolic and possibly aging biomarker benefit.

Also: CR, Dietary restriction

CR engages a coordinated response involving downregulated mTORC1/IGF-1 signaling, upregulated AMPK and sirtuins, increased autophagy, and elevated FGF21. CALERIE 2 showed sustained 12% restriction in non-obese humans reduced cardiometabolic risk and slowed epigenetic aging clocks. Intermittent fasting and time-restricted eating partially recapitulate CR signaling. MNHD Ch 51 frames CR as the conceptual prototype for dietary restriction biology.

How one textbook covers it

  • Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease, 12th ed.Ch 51: Metabolic and Molecular Consequences of Dietary Restriction

    CR engages a coordinated response involving downregulated mTORC1/IGF-1 signaling, upregulated AMPK and sirtuins, increased autophagy, and elevated FGF21. CALERIE 2 showed sustained 12% restriction in non-obese humans reduced cardiometabolic risk and slowed epigenetic aging clocks. Intermittent fasting and time-restricted eating partially recapitulate CR signaling. MNHD Ch 51 frames CR as the conceptual prototype for dietary restriction biology.

Related terms

AMPK, FGF21, Intermittent fasting, Sirtuins, mTORC1