There’s a clear connection between weight gain and health risks. And the opposite may also be true: two new research studies provide further evidence that reduced calorie consumption may lead to healthier aging and reduced risk for age-related illnesses.  First, an early stage study out of Brigham Young University recently revealed how calorie reduction may lead to biochemical changes in the cell, leading to youth extending properties in mice. With 35% fewer calories, the mice in this research not only lived longer but lived with more youthful characteristics as well. In another study, USC Davis School of Gerontology researchers collected data on humans showing that diets which include a 5 day “fasting period” each month (allowing for only 700-1100 calories during these days) can lead to reduced risk for cancer, diabetes and heart disease, in addition to weight loss. While both of these studies need further investigation to confirm their results, this promising data suggest that better health could be within our grasp- assuming we can keep our hands off high calorie foods! So put down those potato chips, and read about these studies Here and Here.