The effect of dietary restriction on reproduction: a meta-analytic perspective.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Dietary restriction (DR), a reduction in the amount of food or particular nutrients eaten, is the most consistent environmental manipulation to extend lifespan and protect against age related diseases. Current evolutionary theory explains this effect as a shift in the resolution of the trade-off between lifespan and reproduction. However, recent studies have questioned the role of reproduction in mediating the effect of DR on longevity and no study has quantitatively investigated the effect of DR on reproduction across species.

Results

Here we report a comprehensive comparative meta-analysis of the effect of DR on reproduction. In general, DR reduced reproduction across taxa, but several factors moderated this effect. The effect of DR on reproduction was greater i

SUBMITTER: Moatt JP 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5054627 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature