The Skinny on Calorie Restriction

Hoping to extend his lifespan through the extreme Calorie Restriction diet, one man finds serenity and bliss.

By Willow Lawson, published on May 01, 2004 - last reviewed on October 31, 2007

Obviously, it's not for everyone. When you're on the high testosterone side of the fence and your libido is going strong, it's virtually impossible to see the appeal of the side of the fence that I'm on now. Some veteran CRonies, but not all, have observed this virtual disappearance of sexual desire. Like most men, I used to think about sex many, many times a day. It's inconceivable to think about not having that as a large focus. Now, however, it's very hard to see the appeal of going back to that testosterone-driven way of life. I don't miss my libido one bit.

One of the biggest difficulties for my wife is that I'm not as attractive and she isn't as attracted to me as she used to be. But psychologically and emotionally, she's much more attracted to me now. I'm a much more considerate husband and father than I was prior to starting the diet. My testosterone is extremely low, in the ballpark of an average woman.

There is a lot of discussion of anorexia on the CR society website. Do you think CR could segue into an eating disorder, or mask a disorder?

There are certainly anorexics who at least claim to practice CR. But I don't know of anyone who was not anorexic and who became one after starting CR.

Do you think CR will ever take off as a way of life?

I'm skeptical. I think this will always be a niche diet. It's really a lifestyle. It takes a lot of self-discipline that not many people in our society have. And that's unfortunate because I think it has a lot of health benefits and a lot of psychological benefits. I'm in it for the adventure. I enjoy doing something different from everyone else.