Ketosis v. Plant-Based - Diet Wars with Cardiologist Joel Kahn, MD

Common Ground

Joel Kahn and Rich Roll explore the common ground between different dietary philosophies, emphasizing the importance of reducing processed foods. Joel highlights that both plant-based and paleo advocates agree on the detrimental effects of hyper-processed fast foods on health 1. He notes that despite the polarized nature of dietary debates, there is a consensus on the need to eliminate excess sugar and fast food from diets 2.

The common ground is that none of us are into excess sugar or fast food.

--- Joel Kahn

Rich adds that the rise in plant-based awareness suggests a shift towards healthier eating habits, indicating that these discussions are not just a passing trend 2.

   

Holistic Health

The conversation shifts to holistic health approaches that integrate elements from various dietary principles. Rich discusses the impact of corporate consciousness on the plant-based movement, noting how major companies are investing in plant-based foods 3. He emphasizes the importance of remaining objective and open to evidence, even if it challenges personal beliefs 4.

Human beings, we flock to our tribes. We inherently want to be a member of a team, and that doesn't necessarily serve anybody.

--- Rich Roll

Joel agrees, highlighting the need for flexibility in dietary choices to promote overall health and well-being 4.

   

Dialogue

Encouraging dialogue between differing dietary camps is crucial for advancing nutritional understanding. Rich reflects on the dynamics of debates, noting that while they can be contentious, they are necessary for breaking down silos and fostering mature conversations 5. Joel adds that debates often highlight the difference between causation and association, a critical distinction in nutritional science 6.

Association is not causation.

--- Joel Kahn

Both agree that open discussions can help clarify misconceptions and promote a more nuanced understanding of diet and health 6.