Thursday, July 16, 2009

More on caloric restriction and longevity

The Science article about caloric restriction and longevity in rhesus monkeys triggered a funny column by Roger Cohen pointing out that quality of life matters in addition to quantity.

Suppose the mechanism through which caloric restriction extends life is by diminishing reproductive behavior and the energy allotments it requires. Try pitching that to the public, especially to anybody who enjoys Viagra.