It is a challenging time of year to be told that eating less is good for you but evidence has for a long time suggested that cutting down on calories extends life.

Now Italian researchers have identified a molecule produced when people diet that could lead to the development of a drug that mimics the effect of restraint, offering a longer life without the need for self-denial.

I’m all for a longer life without sef denial – think about this whist over indulging this Christmas and remember Les Dawson’s soution to feeling fat – larger clothes!