BOOSTING LIFESPAN AND ANTIOXIDANT DEFENSES: THE SYNERGISTIC POWER OF DIETARY RESTRICTION AND VITAMIN C IN DROSOPHILA MELANOGASTER

Dietary restriction (DR) and antioxidant supplementation, particularly with Vitamin C (ascorbic acid), have been linked to mitigating aging effects. In this study, we examined the combined effects of DR and ascorbic acid on antioxidant enzymes and lifespan in Drosophila melanogaster. Flies were divided into four groups: control, 40% DR, ascorbic acid (AA) supplemented and combined 40% DR + AA supplemented group. Key factors, including lipid peroxidation levels and antioxidant enzymes activity, were measured over 56 days at a weekly interval. Results showed that, lipid peroxidation increased with age but were significantly lower in the experimental groups, especially in the 40% DR + AA group. Additionally, antioxidant enzyme activities, including superoxide dismutase and catalase, were significantly higher in the 40% DR and 40% DR + AA groups. All experimental groups demonstrated a greater maximum lifespan to the control. These findings suggest that, the synergy of DR and Vitamin C supplementation enhances health and lifespan more effectively than either approach alone.