CRON (Caloric Restriction with Optimal Nutrition)

CRON stands for Caloric Restriction with Optimal Nutrition. It is a structured way of eating less. You cut your energy intake by roughly 20 to 30%. At the same time, you deliberately pack in nutrients: vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, and quality protein. Roy Walford developed the approach, with Lisa Walford. Brian M. Delaney later popularized it and co-founded the CR Society. A key reference is the book The Anti-Aging Plan (1994) by Roy Walford. Lisa Walford co-authored the 2005 revised edition. The goal is to capture the upsides of eating less, like better insulin sensitivity, lower inflammation, and healthier blood fats. And to do it without falling into nutrient deficiencies.

Last reviewed: June 22, 2026

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