Can You Cheat Ageing Without Skipping Meals?
For centuries, humans have searched for the secret to a longer, healthier life. From ancient myths to modern science, the idea of slowing down ageing has fascinated people across generations. Today, we know that eating fewer calories also known as dietary restriction is one of the most reliable ways to extend lifespan in animals. However, strict dieting is difficult for many to stick with. So the big question remains: Can we gain the benefits of dieting without actually dieting?
The Science Behind Dietary Restriction
Decades of studies show that reducing calorie intake without causing malnutrition can significantly extend lifespan in animals, from insects to mammals. This method not only helps animals live longer but also delays age-related diseases.
Still, long-term calorie restriction is hard to maintain and may even harm health if done excessively. That’s why scientists are now exploring other ways to achieve similar benefits without constant hunger or lifestyle changes.
Noting that repurposing existing drugs like Rapamycin and Metformin could be a practical way to enhance both lifespan and health span in the future.
Could a Pill Replace Dieting?
In recent years, scientists have focused on two promising drugs: Rapamycin and Metformin. These compounds are being studied for their ability to mimic the effects of eating less without requiring major changes to one’s diet.
A new study from the University of East Anglia has compared the effects of these drugs with traditional dietary restrictions. The results offer encouraging insights.
Key Findings From the Study
Researchers reviewed 167 studies involving eight different animal species, including fish, rodents, and more. They tested three main interventions:
- Dietary Restriction (reduced calorie intake)
- Rapamycin
- Metformin
The outcomes were clear:
- Dietary restriction remains the most consistent way to increase lifespan.
- Rapamycin showed promising results, nearly matching the life-extending effects of eating less.
- Metformin, however, did not provide consistent benefits and did not extend lifespan reliably.
These results suggest that while dieting still leads the way, Rapamycin could be a strong alternative worth further exploration.
Our findings don’t support widespread Rapamycin use just yet, But they do highlight the need for more research into its potential to support healthy ageing.
How Do These Drugs Work?
Rapamycin
Originally discovered in the soil of Easter Island in the 1970s, Rapamycin is widely used as an immunosuppressant to prevent organ transplant rejection. Interestingly, it also affects a key protein called mTOR, which tells cells when nutrients are plentiful.
By blocking mTOR, Rapamycin creates a state that mimics nutrient scarcity just like during fasting or dieting helping slow down ageing at the cellular level. Some studies even show that combining Rapamycin with another drug, Trametinib can extend life even further in mice.
Metformin
Metformin, a medication derived from the French lilac plant, is commonly used to manage type 2 diabetes. It also influences nutrient-sensing pathways, making it a candidate for anti-ageing research.
However, the recent review found that Metformin alone did not consistently increase lifespan in the animal studies examined. This doesn’t mean it has no value just that more research is needed, especially in humans.
What This Means for the Future of Aging
While ageing is not a disease, it is the biggest risk factor for many major health issues including cancer, heart disease, and dementia. If we can slow the ageing process even slightly, it could lead to healthier lives and reduce the burden on healthcare systems, especially as the global population ages.
That said, there are some warnings. A few studies showed that both dietary restriction and Rapamycin might shorten lifespan under certain conditions. So far, most of this research has been done in animals, not humans.
Conclusion
We are still in the early stages of understanding how to safely slow ageing in humans. Dietary restriction continues to be the gold standard, but Rapamycin is emerging as a strong contender. Metformin, despite its safety record and popularity, has shown limited benefits so far.
As human clinical trials are currently underway, we may soon have clearer answers. Until then, any decision to use such treatments should be made under the guidance of a qualified medical professional.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The drugs mentioned Rapamycin and Metformin are still under research for anti-ageing effects in humans. Do not start any medication or major lifestyle changes without consulting your doctor.
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
Priya Bairagi
Reviewed by Dr Aarti Nehra (MBBS, MMST)
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
