RESTRICCIÓN CALÓRICA Y MIMÉTICOS EN EL ENVEJECIMIENTO

Abstract

Introduction: The aging of the global population has driven the search for strategies to prolong health and delay age-related diseases. Calorie restriction, which reduces caloric intake without malnutrition, is the most studied geroprotective dietary intervention. However, the difficulty of maintaining it has directed research toward drugs that mimic its effects, known as calorie restriction mimetics. Objective: To examine the potential of calorie restriction and its mimetics to delay aging, evaluating their impact on health and longevity, and analyzing their scientific basis and potential therapeutic applications. Methodology: A qualitative literature review based on literature on calorie restriction and its mimetics in relation to aging. Data was compiled from scientific databases such as PubMed, LILACS, and Cochrane, focusing on clinical studies from the last five years. The findings are summarized in a narrative review. Results: Calorie restriction showed significant improvements in health and longevity in experimental and human models, reducing weight, insulin levels, body temperature, and oxidative stress. It promoted autophagy by inhibiting mTOR and activating AMPK. Calorie restriction mimetics, such as metformin and rapamycin, also demonstrated anti-aging effects by modulating nutrient-sensing pathways and reducing oxidative damage, suggesting their potential as alternatives to calorie restriction. Conclusion: Calorie restriction and its mimetics have been shown to promote longevity and muscle quality by activating key metabolic pathways in the aging process. Although they act differently, they promote autophagy and antioxidant protection, suggesting the need for combined approaches to optimize their antiaging effects.