Watch CBS News

UCSF Researchers Study Extreme Dieting

SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) -- UCSF researchers are trying to find the effects of extreme dieting in humans. Animals who consume fewer calories in some cases are living longer and healthier lives according to the study, but can the same be said for humans?

Eating less than 1,600 calories or less a day is considered a qualified extreme diet and people have been doing it for years. UCSF researcher Dr. Janet Tomyana said taking part in such a practice may actually help prolong your life.

"What makes the study so unique is that for the first time we are really looking at this question whether consistent calorie restriction in humans prolongs a healthy life," said Tomyana.

KCBS' Jeffrey Schaub Reports:

Apparently it's worked with non-humans. Tomyana said some worms that would normally live up to 14 days, would live up to 40 if you restrict the number of calories that worm eats.

Research shows people who do extreme dieting often are sharper, have greater impulse control and less stress. But UCSF is still searching for the fountain of youth and to find out if they live longer?

(© 2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.