According to Dr. Aubrey de Grey metabolism is not the problem, it’s the end result of metabolism that’s the problem he says.
So, if we can slow down metabolism can’t we slow down the aging process?
What do you think most of the current, 'successful' interventions do?
mTOR inhibition (via taking rapamycin) or calorie restriction likely (in part) act through a reduction in damage from metabolic waste products (Aubrey's fav theory for the cause of ageing) and from a reduction in the growth/senescence signal (Blagosklonny's fav theory for the cause of ageing).
Regardless of how they work at the mechanistic, cellular level, they do work to extend lifespan BUT, and this is a big BUT, you can overdo it. Take too much rapamycin and you'll get infections, your hair won't grow, your sex drive will plummet, etc. It goes without saying what too much calorie restriction does.
Personally I don't rate those interventions, because high metabolism is synonymous with health and youth and IMO it is a more enjoyable life to have a high metabolism, decent testosterone, etc., and live a normal span, than it is to have a longer life but be only semi-functional and miserable.
That doesn't necessarily mean you have to choose, I think we should be able to be full of life AND live a long time, but the route to that isn't slowed metabolism.
