A Little Body Fat in Old Age May Actually Help You Live Longer
This is early worm research, so no human takeaway on citrulline or fat exists yet.
Scientists found that a small amount of fat buildup during aging helped worms live longer, not shorter. The driver was citrulline, a compound made in the body that switches on fat storage. Worms low in citrulline stored less fat and died sooner, and adding it back reversed that. This challenges the idea that all fat gain with age is bad, but it was only shown in worms.
Conflict of Interest Disclosure: The authors declare no competing interests.
Disclaimer: Research summaries are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your health routine.
Related Studies
All researchYour Blood Chemistry Mirrors Your Epigenetic Age, and Body Weight Drives It Most
Epigenetic clocks estimate how fast your body is aging, but they need a special DNA test.
Centenarians Show a Distinct Metabolic Profile Tied to Bile Acids and NAD+
People who live past 100 have a unique metabolic fingerprint.
How Excess Fructose May Damage Far More Than Just Your Liver
This review pulls together evidence showing fructose does more than add calories.
