EP 1229
1229. Is Red Meat the Fountain of Youth? Paul Saladino
In this episode of The Human Upgrade, Dave Asprey welcomes Dr. Paul Saladino to discuss the evolution of dietary science and its impact on health. From the challenges of strict carnivore diets to the reintroduction of carbohydrates, Paul breaks down misconceptions about calorie restriction, seed oils, and plant-based diets. Discover the truth about animal fats, organ meats, and how food quality shapes longevity. Packed with actionable insights and a deep dive into nutritional myths, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on optimizing diet and metabolic health for a vibrant life.
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In this Episode of The Human Upgrade™...
Does Calorie Restriction Even Work? What About the Carnivore Diet AND Fruit?
Today we are excited to have Paul Saladino join us for a masterclass on food and diets. Dr. Saladino dives into the evolution of keto and carnivore diets, cutting through trends to focus on lasting health impacts. Dr. Saladino, widely recognized as CarnivoreMD, shares how his own diet shifted to include fruit and honey alongside animal-based nutrition, and why metabolic flexibility—not rigid rules—leads to better outcomes. Together, he and Dave challenge assumptions about long-term ketosis, examine its potential downsides, and explore how to optimize diets for energy, gut health, and longevity.
They also tackle controversial topics like the risks of seed oils, the overhyped reputation of “health foods” like quinoa, and the critical roles insulin and nutrient density play in overall wellness. With insights on balancing mTOR, managing omega fats, and incorporating organ meats, this episode offers a nuanced perspective for anyone interested in biohacking, nutrition science, or simply eating smarter.
What you’ll learn:
- Why metabolic flexibility matters more than strict diet rules
- The science behind long-term ketosis and insulin’s broader role in health
- How common “health foods” could be doing more harm than good
- The importance of nutrient-dense animal-based foods for gut and immune health
- How to achieve optimal balance between fat types, mTOR, and longevity markers
Sponsors:
Timeline | Head to https://www.timeline.com/dave to get 10% off your first order.
LMNT | Free LMNT Sample Pack with any drink mix purchase by going to https://drinklmnt.com/dave.
“Eating a diet high in omega-6, like linoleic acid from seed oils, is like stacking dry wood around your metabolic house—it just takes a spark of oxidative stress to set it ablaze.”
Paul Saladino
- 00:00 Intro
Dave introduces Paul Saladino and sets the stage for a deep dive into the science of diet and health.
- 00:40 Paul Saladino’s Evolution in Diet
Paul shares how his approach to nutrition has evolved over time, including his initial embrace of the carnivore diet.
- 01:21 Challenges of a Strict Carnivore Diet
Paul discusses the difficulties of maintaining a strict carnivore lifestyle and the potential health implications.
- 03:36 Reintroducing Carbohydrates
Paul explains why he decided to reintroduce carbohydrates into his diet and the impact it had on his health.
- 05:32 Debunking Common Diet Myths
The discussion shifts to popular misconceptions about diets, including calorie counting and food restriction.
- 13:49 The Problem with Calorie Restriction
Paul explains why calorie restriction might not be as effective or healthy as commonly believed.
- 18:30 The Importance of Food Quality
The conversation highlights the significance of choosing high-quality, nutrient-dense foods over processed alternatives.
- 24:08 The Veganism Debate
Paul critiques veganism, exploring potential nutritional deficiencies and the impact of excluding animal products.
- 34:15 The Benefits of Organ Meats
Paul delves into the nutritional value of organ meats and their role in a balanced diet.
- 37:27 Foot Surgery and Bone Density
Paul shares his personal experience with foot surgery and what it taught him about maintaining strong bones.
- 39:23 Mineral Deficiency and Plant-Based Diets
The discussion covers how plant-based diets may lead to deficiencies in key minerals like zinc and iron.
- 40:00 The Truth About Seed Oils
Paul uncovers the dangers of seed oils and their impact on inflammation and overall health.
- 41:10 Historical Studies on Seed Oils
An exploration of historical research on seed oils and how their use has shaped modern diets.
- 47:26 Mechanisms and Effects of Seed Oils
Paul explains the biological mechanisms behind seed oils and their negative health effects.
- 52:33 Nicotine and Neuroprotection
Paul discusses the surprising connection between nicotine and its potential neuroprotective benefits.
- 54:12 Oleic Acid and Longevity
The conversation shifts to oleic acid, its sources, and its role in promoting longevity.
- 01:01:44 The Benefits of Animal Fats
Paul highlights why animal fats are a superior energy source and their importance in a balanced diet.
- 01:02:32 Odd Chain Fatty Acids and Health
The discussion covers the unique properties of odd-chain fatty acids and their impact on metabolic health.
- 01:11:07 Cheese and Dairy Considerations
Paul evaluates cheese and dairy, sharing insights on their potential benefits and downsides.
- 01:13:11 The Impact of Cheese on Health
The effects of cheese on gut health, inflammation, and overall well-being are discussed in detail.
- 01:14:03 Protein Intake and Longevity
Paul shares how optimizing protein intake can support muscle mass and longevity.
- 01:14:54 Understanding mTOR and Its Effects
A deep dive into mTOR (mechanistic target of rapamycin) and how it influences aging and health.
- 01:17:35 Ideal Body Fat and Metabolic Health
Paul explains the relationship between body fat percentage and optimal metabolic health.
- 01:24:38 The Role of Omega Fatty Acids
The importance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in balancing inflammation and promoting health is explored.
- 01:32:46 ApoB, Insulin Sensitivity, and Longevity
Paul connects ApoB levels and insulin sensitivity to cardiovascular health and longevity.
- 01:43:09 Final Thoughts and Product Recommendations
Paul wraps up with actionable tips, product suggestions, and key takeaways for improving health.
Resources:
2025 Biohacking Conference – https://biohackingconference.com/2025
Shop Paul Saladino’s Products – https://heartandsoil.co
Follow Paul Saladino on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/paulsaladinomd/
Paul Saladino’s Book: The Carnivore Code – https://www.amazon.com/Carnivore-Code-Unlocking-Returning-Ancestral/dp/035846997X
Lineage Provisions – 100% Grass-Fed Beef Tallow – https://lineageprovisions.com/products/100-grass-fed-beef-tallow
Danger Coffee – https://dangercoffee.com
Danger Coffee Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/dangercoffeeofficial/
Dave Asprey’s Website – https://daveasprey.com
Dave Asprey’s Book: Smarter Not Harder – https://daveasprey.com/books
Dave Asprey’s Linktree – https://linktr.ee/daveasprey
Upgrade Collective: Join The Human Upgrade Podcast Live – https://www.ourupgradecollective.com
Own an Upgrade Labs – https://ownanupgradelabs.com
Upgrade Labs – https://upgradelabs.com
40 Years of Zen – Neurofeedback training for advanced cognitive enhancement – https://40yearsofzen.com
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