#400 How We Eat: Carnivore Diet with Dr. Paul Saladino

Animal Nutrition

Paul Saladino emphasizes the nutritional superiority of an animal-based diet, highlighting the bioavailability of nutrients in animal foods compared to plant-based options. He argues that consuming the entire animal, including organs, provides essential micronutrients like selenium, folate, and vitamin B12, which are often lacking in plant foods 1. Paul states, "If you eat animal foods nose to tail, there are no nutrients you cannot get from that," underscoring the completeness of this dietary approach 2. This perspective challenges the common belief that plant foods are necessary for a balanced diet.

   

Myth Busting

Paul addresses misconceptions about meat consumption, particularly the belief that it is inflammatory or unhealthy. He argues that the demonization of saturated fats and the promotion of polyunsaturated vegetable oils are based on flawed science 3. He suggests that human evolution favored animal foods, which were crucial in the development of the human brain 4. Paul states, "There's no evidence that meat or organs are inflammatory," challenging mainstream dietary narratives.

   

Budget Tips

For those concerned about the cost of a carnivore diet, Paul offers practical tips for budget-friendly eating. He suggests incorporating affordable cuts of meat and organs, which are nutrient-dense and cost-effective 5. Paul also clarifies misconceptions about insulin resistance, explaining that a carnivore diet does not cause pathological insulin resistance but rather a physiological adaptation 6. He emphasizes, "It's a lot easier to do on a budget than people think if you're including organs in your diet."