New research shows that reducing the effective calorie content of the diet by adding non-digestible fiber can promote health and longevity in mice, producing effects similar to those seen with moderate calorie restriction.

The study also explored combining this approach with exome-matched protein diets, in which the amino acid composition of dietary protein aligns with that of the body’s proteins. Remarkably, mice displayed a clear preference for exome-matched chow over other diets.

While the findings offer promising insights into dietary interventions that may influence aging, translating these strategies to human diets presents challenges. The study used cellulose starch as a non-digestible fiber, constituting 30% of total food intake by weight, a level that could be difficult to replicate safely and practically in humans.

“These results suggest exciting possibilities for modulating healthspan through diet,” said the research team. “However, further studies are needed to determine how these interventions might be adapted for human nutrition.”