# CRON (Caloric Restriction with Optimal Nutrition)

CRON is a structured form of caloric restriction in which energy intake is reduced by roughly 20–30% while micronutrient density (vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, protein quality) is deliberately maximized. The approach was developed by Roy Walford (with Lisa Walford, and later Brian M. Delaney as a popularizer and CR Society co-founder), with The Anti-Aging Plan (1994) by Roy Walford (Lisa Walford co-authored the 2005 revised edition) as a key reference. The aim is to capture metabolic benefits—improved insulin sensitivity, lower inflammation, favorable lipids—without inducing nutrient deficiencies.

## Sources

- Most J, Tosti V, Redman LM, Fontana L. (2017). Calorie Restriction in Humans: An Update. Ageing Research Reviews. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.arr.2016.08.005

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_Canonical: https://longevity-germany.com/en/glossary/cron-diet · Part of Longevity Cities · Updated 2026-06-15_