Less is more: caloric regulation of neurogenesis and adult brain function

Abstract

Calorie intake is essential for regulating normal physiological processes and is fundamental to maintaining life. Indeed, both extremes of calorie intake result in increased morbidity and mortality. In this review, we discuss the effect of calorie intake on adult brain function, with emphasis on the beneficial effects of mild calorie restriction. Recent findings relating to the regenerative and protective effect of the gastrointestinal hormone, ghrelin, suggest that it may underlie the beneficial effects of calorie restriction. We discuss the putative cellular mechanisms underlying ghrelin-action and their possible role in supporting healthy brain ageing.

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