Lower protein intake linked to slower cellular ageing in animal studies

A new review of more than 350 studies examined the effects of reduced protein consumption on the biology of ageing. The analysis found that lower protein diets, or restriction of specific amino acids, were associated with slower cellular ageing in laboratory animals such as mice, rats, flies and yeast. The proposed mechanisms include altered energy metabolism, increased cellular cleanup (autophagy) and a lower accumulation of senescent cells, which together may promote healthier ageing and longer lifespan in these models.

The review stresses that most of the evidence comes from animal experiments, and the findings may not directly translate to humans. Human data are limited and inconclusive, and the authors note that the benefits could stem from overall dietary quality rather than protein reduction alone. Australian dietary guidelines currently recommend that 15–25 % of daily energy come from protein, a level that most Australians already meet.