Brian M. Delaney, president of the Calorie Restriction Society and co-author of The Longevity Diet, created the Calorie Restriction Diet based on the premise that restricting calories would extend human life. His theory is based on scientific studies that proved restricting calories in certain laboratory animals extended their lifespan by as much as 50%.

The Calorie Restriction Diet is not to be confused with the calorie restriction associated with anorexia. It focuses on health and a balanced eating plan, not starvation. This diet is based on a 20-40% reduction in calories while still taking in all essential nutrients and vitamins. The desired macronutrient ratio of proteins, fats, and carbs is 30:30:40. There’s no strict set of rules to follow, or a list of good foods and bad foods – simply an overall reduction of calories consumed.

Benefits may include a decreased risk of cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. It’s also said to enhance sense of taste, decrease LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, increase HDL (good) cholesterol levels, and trigger the release of feel-good brain chemicals like serotonin.

Foods to include:

Vegetables
Fruits
Whole grains
Lean meat
Lean poultry
Lean fish
Eggs
Beans
Non-fat dairy
Nuts and seeds
Healthy oils

Foods to avoid:

Refined grains
Sugar
Trans fats
Processed foods

Pros:

Calorie restriction may lead to weight loss
Possible lowered risk of age-related disease
May be associated with increased lifespan
Discourages processed food

Cons:

Scientific evidence proving efficacy is limited
Calorie restriction may lead to loss of muscle mass and reduced bone density
May lead to eating disorders
May not be specific enough to see results

Sources:

Brian M. Delaney and Lisa Walford’s The Longevity Diet
Calorie Restriction Society International www.calorierestriction.org
Calorie Restriction – An Insider View Of One Man’s Lower Calorie Lifestyle www.thatsfit.com
Calorie Restriction Diet www.nytimes.com