29. Will eating an animal based diet over-activate mTOR? With James Clement

Protein Balance

The discussion on protein and longevity highlights the nuanced relationship between protein intake and health. James W. Clement emphasizes caution in protein consumption, especially for individuals with kidney dysfunction, advocating for a balanced intake that avoids excessive amounts 1. Paul Saladino supports this view, suggesting that a gram of protein per pound of body weight is generally safe and beneficial for maintaining lean muscle mass 2. He notes, "Excess protein beyond that will probably cause hyperaminemia or overload the urea cycle in the liver to metabolize the amino acids."

Excess protein beyond that will probably cause hyperaminemia or overload the urea cycle in the liver to metabolize the amino acids.

--- Paul Saladino

The conversation underscores the importance of protein cycling to promote autophagy without compromising muscle mass 2.

   

Insulin & Glycation

Insulin sensitivity and glycation are pivotal in understanding chronic diseases. James W. Clement discusses how high blood sugar leads to glycation, damaging the endothelial lining of blood vessels, akin to a "glass coating with sugar" 3. Paul Saladino agrees, emphasizing the endogenous formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) as more harmful than dietary sources 3. He states, "The endogenous formation of AGEs is more of a factor than the exogenous consumption."

The endogenous formation of AGEs is more of a factor than the exogenous consumption.

--- Paul Saladino

The conversation also touches on insulin resistance, with Paul noting that visceral fat storage indicates insulin resistance, which can be mitigated by improving insulin sensitivity 4.

   

Ketosis & Hormesis

The role of ketosis and hormesis in health and longevity is explored, with Paul Saladino advocating for environmental hormesis over molecular hormesis, such as through controlled breath holding or exercise 5. He highlights the benefits of intermittent ketosis, which can aid in weight loss and improve insulin sensitivity without compromising muscle mass 6. James W. Clement adds that ketosis should not be a constant state, as it can lead to muscle mass loss and other health issues if mTOR is suppressed continuously 6.

Ketosis is not something you should do 24/7, 365 days a year. If you keep mTOR suppressed all the time, you're going to find your white blood cell count dropping, your muscle mass decreasing.

--- James W. Clement

This section emphasizes the importance of cycling between metabolic states to maintain overall health.