Well said, but I do believe there is at least one exception to "all studies show life expectancy increases the lower the calorie intake." For the younger crowd on this site... Low calorie, calorie restrictions, fasting are very problematic to childhood development and young adults leading to stunted growth, osteoporosis, vitamin deficiencies, etc. This is because men and woman's brain do not stop developing until the age 25. They also don't achieve peak muscle mass till somewhere between age 20-30. During this time frame the focus should be on eating a balanced meal plan. Not low calories. Low calories during these years will reduce life expectancy from nutritional deficiency's that lead to chronic diseases. The studies your talking about are when a person is done developing. Great post from you!!!