Calorie restriction is bad news for cancer cells: It makes them “eat themselves”

(Natural News) Diets are a dime a dozen. A quick search using the word “diet” is bound to give you endless results. But which of these diets actually give the most benefit, especially when it comes to overall health? Researchers from the Harper Cancer Research Institute in South Bend, Indiana suggests calorie restriction. In their study published in NutritionResearch, they revealed that calorie restriction causes cancer cells to “eat themselves.” It also improves biomarkers of the disease.

The idea of sharply reducing calorie intake to unlock certain health benefits is one that’s been around for years. While animal studies have shown that calorie restriction has anti-aging value, researchers are still understanding how that benefit can translate to humans. Cutting back on calories could be unsustainable for us in the long run and increase the risk of muscle and bone density loss, warn scientists.

In the study, the researchers noted that calorie restriction increased autophagy rates in colorectal cancer cells based on a 3D model. Autophagy is the process by which cellular material is degraded and recycled. It allows cells to remove damaged components so they can be used for cell repair. Through autophagy, cells can maintain homeostasis….Read More