The Less I Know – Ease and Homeostasis

Dust In The Wind – The Story of a Reluctant Winnower

“The Less I Know – Ease and Homeostasis” – Why Our Sources of Macro-Nutrients Likely Mean Little In The Overall Scheme of Longevity and Wellness.

Six years ago, I realized that there was something going on in my body that wasn’t as it should be. A year before that, I quit drinking. A great accomplishment, but I was still not making sober-minded decisions about my diet and lifestyle. Yes, I had quit drinking alcohol, but I replaced it with Skittles and Smarties. I put down one kind of sugar and picked up another. I didn’t slow my ‘sugar’ roll one bit. And it was taking its toll. I was continuing to malnourish myself, one bite at a time.

In September of 2016, I resolved to change my course. I removed junk food, fast food, sugar, candy, etc., from my diet. No more processed foods. Just whole foods. Based on the level of knowledge I had at that time, I began eating something along the lines of a keto/paleo diet. Finally, after another 9 months, I also tossed my daily consumption of products that contained caffeine and nicotine.

Slowly but surely, my body was correcting itself. Undoing the damage I had been doing for a lot of years. As long as it had taken for my body to come to this point of failure, the process of recovery wasn’t much faster. Martin Luther King, Jr. reminded us that “the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” Change takes a long time, but it does happen. I suggest that our body works on that same curve. Slow and steady is the pace that wins the race.

During this time, I’ve dedicated a lot of time to reading everything I can about what conditions best facilitate a long and happy health span. And the more I read, the more confounded I become. My assumptions and expectations continue to be crushed and winnowed away. Dust in the wind. The more I read, the more I found, the less I knew.

During this six-year journey, my macro-nutrient consumption has been one of continual change and refinement. I’ve used myself as a guinea pig in an attempt to find the best answers for how to improve this individual body, and in the process, I have shared many of my ever-changing damned conclusions. And as sure as I’ve ever been at any step along the way, I can stand here today and simply say, I DON’T KNOW. I really don’t know what the best diet is, and I would likely be best served to simply share my findings with a grain of two of salt and maintain my willingness to prove my prior self wrong.

Every day, in every way, I am getting better and better. This I can say I know because I can feel it through my own experience. The following is what I can still say I don know, based on my current understanding at this time…

Food–>Macro-Nutrients–>Micro-Nutrients

Protein, fats, and carbohydrates are what we call the macro-nutrients. We consume food that consists of these three things. All of which are made up of Carbon, Hydrogen, and Oxygen. Proteins have some additional components that fats and carbohydrates don’t have, primarily Nitrogen.

Our bodies need these things to maintain proper form and function. Amino acids for the building blocks of life. Our body uses them to make its needed human proteins. Everything else beyond what is needed to build and maintain the body is converted into glucose(sugar) for immediate or later use. That glucose is what fuels our locomotion. And of the glucose that is in excess of our immediate need is converted into body fat which is stored for later use.

Does our body care where we get our macro-nutrients from? I really don’t think it cares as much as we think and convince ourselves it does. However, I do believe that some practices are better than others in the overall scheme of things. And for me, at this time, that looks like a Mediterranean diet.

What I can say with a relatively high level of certainty is that our body would prefer to spend less energy on the nutritional process than more. The more energy and time it has to spend on digesting foods, the less time and energy it has to spend on perfecting its understanding of homeostasis, whatever that looks like. It doesn’t want too much, nor does it want too little, and we would best be served to eat according to needs rather than desires or set schedules.

A Solution to Substance Abuse & Addiction

An easier, softer way…

As a recovering/recovered chip-carrying member of Alcoholics Anonymous for more than seven years, I believe there are many solutions for solving the problem of substance abuse and addiction. The following are some of my thoughts on how we can clean up the wreckage of our past so that we can pave the way to a more sober-minded future.

Substance abuse and addiction have severe consequences not only for individuals but also for society. Today, these problems extend beyond personal health issues, substantially affecting social, economic, and public health domains.

Firstly, substance abuse significantly impacts public health and safety. The relationship between substance abuse and various health issues, such as heart disease, mental disorders, and infectious diseases, is well-documented. Moreover, it is often linked with risky behaviors like unprotected sex and driving under the influence, which contributes to further health issues and accidents.

In terms of social consequences, substance abuse often leads to disruptions in family life and decreased productivity at work, thereby causing stress and instability within families and workplaces. Children growing up in such environments are at an increased risk of developing substance use disorders. Additionally, addiction is closely related to crime, with a significant proportion of those incarcerated being substance users, often driven to illicit activities to sustain their habit.

From an economic perspective, the cost of substance abuse is staggering, with substantial expenses incurred in health care, criminal justice, and lost productivity. As per the National Institute on Drug Abuse, substance abuse, and addiction cost American society more than $740 billion annually related to crime, lost work productivity, and healthcare.

Given the profound impact of substance abuse on society, it is essential to implement strategies to mitigate its effects and provide help for those affected. One such approach is investing in prevention and early intervention programs. These programs can target vulnerable populations, such as children and adolescents, and aim to equip them with skills to resist peer pressure and make healthy life choices. Such strategies are cost-effective as preventing substance abuse reduces the costs associated with treating addiction and related health issues.

Next, enhancing access to treatment and recovery resources is a critical aspect of managing substance abuse. One of the barriers to accessing treatment is the stigma associated with addiction. Societal attitudes often paint addiction as a moral failing rather than a health issue, preventing individuals from seeking help. Therefore, public health campaigns need to focus on changing societal perceptions of addiction and promoting the idea that recovery is possible.

Furthermore, integrating addiction treatment into primary health care can significantly reduce barriers to treatment. This involves training healthcare providers to screen for substance use disorders and provide brief interventions, referrals to specialized treatment, and follow-up care.

In addition, support for harm reduction programs, such as needle-exchange programs and opioid substitution therapy, is crucial. These programs can reduce the spread of infectious diseases, decrease overdose deaths, and help connect people with treatment resources.

Finally, addressing the social determinants of health can prevent substance abuse and addiction. This means working on broader societal issues, such as reducing poverty, improving education, and providing stable housing, which can contribute to a decrease in substance abuse rates.

In conclusion, substance abuse and addiction pose significant challenges to society, affecting public health, safety, and economic prosperity. However, by focusing on prevention, improving access to treatment, supporting harm reduction, and addressing social determinants of health, we can reduce the burden of addiction on society, promote health and well-being, and create more resilient, sober-minded communities and humanity.

Sobriety is almost never an easy choice, and a hard bottom is usually where most addicts need to find themselves before they can look up from the mess they have landed themselves in. As someone who was once at that hard bottom that it is possible to recover and rejoin society as a healthy, sober-minded, contributing individual. There are many pathways back. For me, Alcoholics Anonymous was the easier, softer way to find my way back.

Herbivore, Carnivore, or Something Other?

Of the opinions of man, they are certainly without end. And all that holds them in their diversity think they are correct.

Over the last seven years, I’ve been trying my best to understand better what it means to be human and how to better practice a fuller and healthier life. Over that time, I have made many changes in my course based on continued self-evaluation and continual self-education along the way. My journey through a perpetual refining fire, if you will. Not of whim but of further refinement as I continue to learn and observe the effects of the modifications to my lifestyle and dietary practices along the way.

Today, I am in a place where I have embraced the idea that the best answers are usually found somewhere in the middle, away from the extremes.

When I first started this journey, I was determined to find myself in a much healthier place through an individual practice of recovery. I love that word…Recovery. The idea of changing my covering, the physical shelter of my consciousness, will, and spirit, if you will. That is exactly what I was doing and will continue to do.

Today, the physical practices that make up my journey consist of three distinct pillars. Quality sleep, healthy diet, and consistent daily exercise. Some might argue there is more, but for me, these are the macros of my current state of physical being. If I allow any one of these to suffer, the others follow.

In time, and in another post, I will expand further on all of these three, but today I want to focus on what I currently believe is likely the best way to approach nutrition(diet).

TL;DR: A Mediterranian Diet is likely the best solution.

What follows are my findings regarding human physiology and why I believe a Mediterranian Diet is likely the best solution to live a fuller and more lively healthspan rather than one of the current popular extremes found in veganism or diets that focus on consuming larger amounts of animal-based foods(Keto or Carnivore), based solely on physiological features and attributes.

Human physiology is significantly different from that of a true herbivore, and these differences reflect the omnivorous nature of humans. Here are some key differences:

Digestive Tract: Herbivores have a longer digestive tract compared to humans. This is because plant material, especially cellulose, is more difficult to break down and requires more time to process. The longer digestive tract in herbivores allows for more efficient absorption of nutrients. In contrast, humans have a relatively shorter digestive tract suited to the digestion of both plant and animal matter.
Stomach Acidity: Humans have a more acidic stomach compared to herbivores. The pH level in a human stomach is typically around 1.5 to 3.5, ideal for breaking down animal protein and killing potential pathogens found in meat. On the other hand, the stomach of a herbivore is usually less acidic, as it needs to support the growth of bacteria that help break down cellulose from plants.
Teeth Structure: Herbivores have teeth designed for grinding plant material. For example, cows have large molars for grinding grass, and beavers have sharp incisors to cut through wood. Humans, however, have a variety of teeth, including incisors for biting, canines for tearing, and molars for grinding, reflecting our omnivorous diet.
Enzymes: Herbivores produce certain enzymes that humans do not. For instance, they can produce cellulase, an enzyme needed to break down cellulose in plant cell walls. Humans, on the other hand, lack the ability to produce this enzyme, so we can’t fully digest raw plant material.
Cecum: The cecum, a pouch at the beginning of the large intestine, plays a significant role in the digestion of plant material in many herbivores, hosting a large number of bacteria that break down cellulose. Humans have a small, functionally insignificant cecum. In fact, the human appendix is a vestigial cecum.
Energy Utilization: Herbivores, especially ruminants like cows, utilize fermentation to break down plant matter, releasing gases in the process. This slower digestion process enables maximum extraction of nutrients from plant materials. Humans, on the other hand, digest food much more quickly, which is suited to the quick energy release needed for our high-metabolism brains and bodies.

These are general differences, and there are many variations among different species of herbivores, but overall, these points highlight some of the fundamental physiological distinctions between humans and true herbivores. But just as with herbivores, human physiology differs in several ways from that of true carnivores. Here are some notable differences:

Digestive Tract: True carnivores tend to have shorter digestive tracts compared to humans. This is because meat can be broken down and absorbed relatively quickly and doesn’t require the longer transit time needed for plant material. The shorter digestive tract also helps to pass potentially harmful bacteria present in meat quickly.
Stomach Acidity: Carnivores have a highly acidic stomach, more so than humans, to quickly break down proteins found in meat and kill bacteria that may be present in their food. While the human stomach is also acidic (with a pH of around 1.5 to 3.5), it is not as consistently strong as that of a carnivore.
Teeth Structure: Carnivores have a dental structure designed for a meat-based diet. They have sharp, pointed teeth for tearing flesh and strong jaws to crush bone. Humans, in contrast, have a mixed set of teeth (incisors, canines, premolars, and molars) suitable for an omnivorous diet, including both plant and animal matter.
Enzymes: Humans produce a variety of digestive enzymes to break down a mix of macronutrients (proteins, fats, and carbohydrates). Carnivores, on the other hand, primarily produce enzymes like proteases and lipases, which are needed to digest protein and fat.
Vitamin Production: Some carnivores, like cats, can synthesize certain nutrients that humans cannot. For example, cats can produce taurine, an essential amino acid, and vitamin A from precursors, while humans must obtain these nutrients directly from their diet.
Cecum and Colon: Carnivores typically have a small cecum and colon because these parts of the digestive tract are primarily involved in breaking down plant matter. Humans, on the other hand, have a larger colon that allows for the fermentation of plant material and the absorption of water and certain vitamins produced by gut bacteria.
Dietary Cholesterol and Saturated Fat: Humans are more susceptible to high levels of dietary cholesterol and saturated fat, which can contribute to heart disease. In contrast, many carnivores can consume large amounts of these substances without the same health risks.

Caveat: It is crucial to remember that dietary cholesterol does not affect blood cholesterol levels as much as once thought. Your liver produces more cholesterol when you eat a diet high in sugar and refined carbohydrates.

I personally suspect that if there are any problems related to the consumption of dietary cholesterol, it is found in the nutrient density and digestive availability of animal fats, much like refined carbohydrates and added sugars.

While these are general differences, it’s important to remember that there are many variations among different species of carnivores. These points highlight some of the key physiological distinctions between humans and true carnivores.

An omnivorous diet reflects the evolution of human gastrointestinal physiology and our dietary flexibility that has contributed to our survival and success as a species. This means humans are equipped to eat and process a wide range of foods, both plant and animal-based. Here are some reasons why the omnivore framework best fits our understanding of human gastrointestinal physiology:

Diversity of Teeth: Humans have a variety of tooth types (incisors, canines, premolars, and molars), which reflects an omnivorous diet. Incisors and canines are designed for biting and tearing food (typical of carnivores), while our molars and premolars are flat and suited for grinding plant material (typical of herbivores).
Digestive Enzymes: Humans produce a range of digestive enzymes that allow us to break down a variety of nutrients. For example, amylase, produced in our saliva, helps to break down carbohydrates, while proteases and lipases in our stomach and small intestine aid in the digestion of proteins and fats.
Digestive Tract Length: Our digestive tract length is intermediate, not as long as in most herbivores, which need extensive time and space to break down cellulose, and not as short as in carnivores, which need to quickly process and expel meat to avoid harmful bacterial growth.
Stomach Acidity: The acidity of our stomachs is capable of breaking down both plant and animal foods and can effectively kill many of the harmful bacteria found in meat.
Dietary Requirements: Humans require a mix of nutrients, some of which are more readily available in animal foods (like vitamin B12 and preformed vitamin A) and others that are more abundant in plant foods (like vitamin C and dietary fiber).
Evolutionary Evidence: From an evolutionary perspective, the ability to consume a mixed diet has likely been a key factor in human survival. Being able to eat a wide range of foods made us more adaptable to different environments and less dependent on a single food source.
Metabolic Adaptability: Humans are metabolically flexible and able to shift our metabolism to use fats, proteins, or carbohydrates for energy depending on dietary intake and energy needs. This adaptability supports an omnivorous diet.
Cultural and Social Factors: Humans across cultures and throughout history have consumed a diverse range of foods. This reflects not only our physiological adaptability but also our social and cultural practices around food, which often include both plant and animal sources.

Therefore, understanding humans as omnivores helps us appreciate the complexity and flexibility of our dietary needs and digestion. It recognizes our evolutionary history and cultural practices related to food over many thousands of years of evolution and adaptation.

Got Pee?

Middle of the night potty breaks getting in the way of a good nights sleep?

You might try reducing your protein intake in small steps. Most Americans in general, eat about double what the body actually needs even when eating a standard diet and working out regularly.

Fats and carbohydrates are made up of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen (CHO), and proteins are made of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen (CHON).

Our bodies can convert carbohydrates into glucose and fat. It can also convert fat into glucose. Our body has the ability to store excess glucose in the form of glycogen.

There is no storage options for excess proteins, so at night, the body strips off the nitrogen from the proteins so it can then convert the rest into glucose or fat for storage. Our body then passes the excess nitrogen out through the kidney along with plasma which…Makes you have to get up and pee throughout the night.

Humans: An Omnivorous Monogastric Animal

We, humans, are omnivorous monogastric animals, which means we have a single-chambered stomach. This is in contrast to ruminant animals like cows, which have a four-chambered stomach to aid in the digestion of tough plant fibers.

The human digestive system is monogastric. It includes a mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum, and anus. Food is first broken down mechanically in the mouth and then chemically in the stomach and small intestine with the help of digestive enzymes. The nutrients from the food are then absorbed into the bloodstream through the lining of the small intestine.

Omnivores are heterotrophs. A heterotroph is an organism that cannot produce its own food. An organism that consumes a variety of food sources, including both animal and plant matter, as their main natural diet. Omnivores are carnivorous as well as herbivorous. Their digestive systems show adaptations that break down and absorb all kinds of food types, including a range of proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, vitamins, etc.

The digestive anatomy of human omnivores shows the characteristics of both herbivores and carnivores. Mechanisms are present to digest both plant and animal matter, especially with protease enzymes to digest proteins. We have well-developed canine teeth in our oral cavities to tear off the flesh in the diet. The gut of an herbivore is longer than that of a carnivore, but omnivores have a longer gut to capacitate both types of diets.

While humans can and do consume plant-based foods, we are omnivorous by nature, meaning we consume both plant-based and animal-based foods. Our digestive system is generally well adapted to digest a variety of foods, including meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes.

One key difference between herbivores and humans is that herbivores have specialized digestive systems adapted to break down and extract nutrients from plant-based foods, which are often difficult to digest due to their high fiber content.

Most mammals and birds are omnivorous. Interestingly, there are algae and plants with omnivorous food habits. Omnivorous mammals, of course, have well-developed digestive systems. Omnivorous plants and algae do not contain alimentary tracts. Instead, there are digesting mechanisms through the secretion of enzymes in plants and algae.

What foods are best suited for omnivorous monogastric animals(humans)?

Animals with this type of digestive system are better adapted to eating foods high in concentrates. Concentrates are highly digestible, high in energy, and low in cellulose fiber. Concentrates are typically 80 to 90 percent digestible.

Monogastric animals, including humans, require a balanced diet that provides essential nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Certain animals, namely horses, rabbits, and rodents, are referred to as modified monogastric organisms because they have a larger cecum that allows for the breaking down of cellulose fiber before entering the large intestine(colon). Humans, in contrast, have a very small or underdeveloped cecum which prevents them from properly breaking down cellulose fiber.

Here are some types of foods that are generally considered safe and good for monogastric animals; specifically humans:

Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates are a good source of energy for monogastric animals. Good sources of carbohydrates include grains like wheat, oats, legumes, and corn, as well as fruits and vegetables.
Proteins: Proteins are essential for the growth, repair, and maintenance of the body tissues. Good sources of protein include meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, and nuts.
Fats: Fats are an important source of energy and help in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Good sources of fats include oils, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish.
Vitamins and minerals: Vitamins and minerals are essential for many biological processes in the body. Good sources of vitamins and minerals include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy products, and meats.

It’s important to note that the specific nutritional requirements for those with monogastric digestive tracts vary depending on their age, size, activity level, and other factors. It’s also important to avoid overfeeding or underfeeding, as both can lead to health problems, especially regarding highly concentrated foods like meats and dairy products.

All Carbs Are Created Equal. Not All Carbs Remain The Same

Plant-based/whole foods(grains, fruit, vegetables, and beans) have fiber in them, which slows the rate of glucose entering your bloodstream. Fiber also promotes a sense of fullness and is good for your digestive system. Animal-based foods and processed/refined carbohydrates contain no fiber. This causes your glucose levels to spike, and then shortly after, your blood sugar crashes. This ultimately makes you feel hungrier sooner, even if you recently consumed an abundance of these calories.

Carbohydrates, or carbs for short, can be divided into two groups: “simple” and “complex” or “whole” and “refined.” Whole carbs are in foods that are not highly processed and contain natural fiber, while refined carbs have been processed more and have had their natural fiber removed or altered.

Although bread, rice, pasta, and cereal are all carbs, they are not all the same when it comes to nutrition. Processed carbs like white bread, white rice, cookies, and soft drinks are often consumed in large amounts in the United States. However, these foods have been blamed for causing health problems such as obesity, heart disease, and type II diabetes.

Eating too many simple sugars and refined flour products can lead to these health problems. It’s important to be aware of the differences between whole and refined carbs and to choose whole carbs whenever possible to maintain good health.

Carbohydrates are not the problem. Too much glucose is. This is why we monitor glucose rather than carbohydrates.

Does the human body need carbohydrates to survive? No, however, it’s important to note that the conversion of proteins into glucose is not the body’s preferred method of producing energy. Carbohydrates are the body’s preferred source of energy, and when there is an adequate supply of carbohydrates in the diet, the body does not need to use proteins for energy.

Yes, proteins can be converted into glucose through a process called gluconeogenesis, but this process only occurs in the liver and only when the body needs glucose for energy. Gluconeogenesis is an extremely costly and complex process that involves breaking down amino acids from proteins and converting them into glucose molecules that can be used by the body for energy.

The primary use of proteins is and should remain for the building and repairing of tissues, making hormones and enzymes, and maintaining a healthy immune system.

Our body can do amazing things in sub-optimal conditions, like turning proteins into glucose. But why waste the energy and effort when we could simply give our body carbohydrates, its preferred form of glucose?

Keto, Vegan, Carnivore, and Frugivore. Why do ALL of these diets work?

Because they are ALL limited-ingredient diets. After I explain why these diets work, I will then explain why they should be used judiciously.

A limited-ingredient diet, also known as an elimination diet, involves feeding your body a restricted number of foods for a certain period of time. Here are some potential benefits of following a limited-ingredient diet:

Identify food sensitivities: By eliminating certain foods from your diet, you may be able to identify which foods are causing adverse reactions, such as bloating, stomach pain, or skin rashes.

Improve digestion: Limiting the variety of foods in your diet can help ease digestive symptoms like gas, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea.

Enhance nutrient absorption: When you reduce the number of foods you eat, your body may have an easier time absorbing nutrients, vitamins, and minerals from the foods you do eat.

Support weight loss: If you want to lose weight, a limited-ingredient diet can help you control portions and make healthier food choices.

Reduce inflammation: Certain foods can trigger inflammation, causing pain, fatigue, and other health issues. By avoiding these foods, you may be able to reduce inflammation and improve your overall health.

Improve mental clarity: Some people report improved clarity and focus when following a limited-ingredient diet.

The ketogenic diet is a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet that aims to put the body in a state of ketosis, burning fat for energy instead of carbohydrates. While the ketogenic diet can aid in weight loss and certain health conditions, it is not necessarily intended to be a long-term solution for everyone.

Some people may find that they can stick to a ketogenic diet long-term and continue to see benefits, while others may find it difficult to maintain over time. Additionally, some health experts caution that a long-term ketogenic diet may be associated with potential health risks, such as nutrient deficiencies, an increased risk of heart disease, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

The carnivore diet is a diet that primarily consists of animal products such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy while excluding most plant-based foods. While some people may find benefits from following a carnivore diet in the short term, it is generally not recommended as a long-term solution for most people.

The main concern with a long-term carnivore diet is the potential for nutrient deficiencies, particularly in vitamins, minerals, and fiber that are typically found in plant-based foods. Additionally, a diet high in animal products has been associated with an increased risk of heart disease, certain types of cancer, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

It’s also worth noting that there is limited research on the long-term effects of a carnivore diet, and much of the existing research is focused on short-term outcomes. Therefore, it is difficult to fully assess the safety and effectiveness of a long-term carnivore diet.

A vegan diet is intended to be a long-term solution for those who follow it. A vegan diet can provide all the necessary nutrients for good health when planned appropriately. This includes adequate protein, iron, calcium, vitamin B12(supplement), and other important nutrients. Yes, the human body does synthesize vitamin B12; however, it does so in the colon and is not absorbed in any appreciable amount, ultimately finding its way into our excrement and into our toilet.

Research has shown that a well-planned vegan diet can offer a range of health benefits, such as a lower risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Additionally, a vegan diet has a lower environmental impact than a diet that includes animal products.

However, it’s important to note that simply eliminating animal products from one’s diet does not automatically make it healthy. It’s essential to ensure that the diet is balanced and includes a variety of whole plant-based foods to provide all the necessary nutrients. Working with a registered dietitian can help ensure that a vegan diet is nutritionally adequate and sustainable for the long term.

It’s important to note that while limited-ingredient diets can be beneficial for some individuals, they may not be necessary or appropriate for everyone. No single diet is a one-size-fits-all solution, and individual needs and preferences should be considered. They should be followed under the guidance of a healthcare professional, especially if you have underlying medical conditions or are at risk of nutrient deficiencies.

And finally, my personal favorite and what I found works best for me.

The Mediterranean diet is considered a good long-term solution for overall health and well-being. This eating pattern is based on the traditional cuisine of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, such as Greece, Italy, and Spain.

Research has shown that a Mediterranean diet can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and some cancers. This is because the diet is high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and olive oil and low in saturated and trans fats, red meat, and processed foods.

In addition, the Mediterranean diet is not a limited-ingredient diet and is sustainable and adaptable to various dietary preferences and cultural traditions. It emphasizes the enjoyment of food and the importance of social eating, which can lead to better mental health and social connections.

Dietary Reflections – 04/13/2023

The following is a response to a friend on social media that self-identifies as a carnivore. He also condemns and speaks out boldly against the eating of plant-based foods. He and I disagree.

-Enjoy-

Some believe that the eating of produce is in some way toxic to humans. I have never met someone poisoned by anything they bought to eat in their whole form at the farmers market or that they have grown on their homestead. But I have met plenty of people who have had many health-related problems eating a diet considered high in red meats and pork. Mind you; I am not referring to people who eat moderate to small amounts of meat once or twice weekly.

And I am aware that some plants that we find at a farmer’s market or produce section at the local store have their own chemical defense mechanisms, but those on sale for humans are non-toxic at the human consumption level. However, if you are a bacteria, yeast, fungi, worm, or gnat, you might be in for a culinary surprise. The poison is dose-dependent. And there is no way a human could eat enough of any plant in its whole form to elicit a response.

WARNING: There are some forms of produce that are poisonous to humans and animals in very small amounts. If you are unsure of which plants these might be, please seek the advice of a professional.

As directly noted above, there are certain plants that ALL humans would be much better off avoiding, especially if uncooked. Those I avoid.

I would love to read more med/sci literature anyone might have that has drawn these conclusions. The only things I have found are being promoted by those that are deeply invested in eating carnivore and keto diets.

Now I could be convinced that if someone continually stuffs massive amounts of cabbage into their colon through their anus/rectum, there might be a problem as their native micro-organisms could be adversely affected. But eating plants that have been slow-cooked and consumed as soup would have no more of these plant defense mechanisms active anymore because the cooking destroys them. And the reality is upwards of 80% of what we poop isn’t digested food but expired micro-organisms that were inhabiting our GI tract digesting that which makes its way beyond the small intestine endothelial lining.

FYI, I am fully aware of things like lectins, ricin, cyanide, solanine, oxalic acid, and phorbol. All things that are easy to avoid. Especially if one does not consume seeds or seed oils where these toxins reside.

There are a lot of factors that play into biochemical individuality. And that is demonstrated by the fact that no two people look alike. Rarely do two people even have intestinal tracts of the same size and length, which can and do profoundly affect the chemistry being produced and distributed throughout the body. To believe otherwise is a foolhardy endeavor. And then there is the issue of physical activity or lack thereof.

The amount of time people spend physically active each and every day determines much about their body’s chemistry which then affects the physical attributes of that human’s body and its dietary needs. And this doesn’t even consider the medical history of the individuals, much less whether they still have all of their internal organs and functionality.

And then there is digestive leukocytosis refers to an increase in the number of white blood cells, specifically neutrophils, and lymphocytes, in the bloodstream that occurs after eating a meal. This phenomenon is a normal physiological response and is believed to be a part of the body’s immune system response to potential pathogens and foreign substances that may be present in food.

When we eat, the body releases digestive enzymes and fluids into the stomach and intestines to break down food into its component nutrients. In the process, some food particles may be perceived as foreign by the immune system, leading to the activation of white blood cells.

The increase in white blood cells, particularly neutrophils, and lymphocytes, after eating is usually temporary and resolves within a few hours. However, in some cases, such as in individuals with food allergies or intolerances, the immune system may overreact to certain foods, leading to more prolonged or severe digestive leukocytosis and other symptoms.

It is important to note that digestive leukocytosis is a normal physiological response to eating and is not typically a cause for concern. However, if you experience persistent or severe symptoms after eating, you should consult a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying conditions.

What Was Ancient Man’s Diet Like?

The following response is from a post on another friend’s page about what was the diet of early indigenous man. Always a fun discussion.

Enjoy!!!

It is difficult to make definitive statements about the diet of ancient indigenous people, as their lifestyles and diets varied widely across different regions and time periods. However, there is some evidence to suggest that some groups of ancient indigenous people may have consumed a primarily meat-based diet.

One line of evidence comes from the study of ancient human remains. For example, analyses of the bones and teeth of ancient people have shown that they often had larger jaws and stronger teeth than modern humans, which some researchers believe may be an adaptation to a diet that was higher in tough, fibrous foods like meat. Additionally, chemical analyses of the bones and teeth of some ancient individuals have suggested that they consumed a high proportion of animal protein in their diets.

Archaeological evidence also provides some support for the idea that ancient indigenous people consumed meat. For example, excavations of ancient campsites and settlements have uncovered animal bones, and other remains that suggest hunting and butchering activities. In some cases, archaeologists have even found evidence of specialized hunting tools, such as spear points and arrowheads, which suggest that hunting played an important role in the diet and economy of these groups.

It is worth noting, however, that not all ancient indigenous groups were primarily meat-eaters. Some groups, particularly those who lived in regions where plant foods were abundant, likely consumed a more varied diet that included a mix of meat, fish, fruits, vegetables, and other plant-based foods.

Conversely, there is a significant amount of evidence to suggest that ancient indigenous people, in various parts of the world, consumed a primarily plant-based diet. Here are some examples:

1. Archeological evidence: Many archeological studies have found that ancient indigenous people relied heavily on plant foods for their sustenance. For instance, studies of the remains of prehistoric humans in places like South America, Africa, and Asia have revealed that their diets consisted mostly of plant-based foods such as fruits, nuts, seeds, and vegetables.

2. Studies of modern-day hunter-gatherer societies: Anthropologists have studied the diets of modern-day hunter-gatherer societies, which are believed to have similar lifestyles and dietary patterns to those of ancient indigenous people. These studies have found that these societies consume a mostly plant-based diet, with small amounts of animal products.

3. Geographical and environmental factors: The availability of plant foods and the challenges of hunting and gathering animals in certain environments also support the idea that ancient indigenous people consumed a primarily plant-based diet. For example, in areas where game animals were scarce or difficult to hunt, indigenous people likely had to rely more heavily on plant foods for survival.

Overall, while the specific dietary patterns of ancient indigenous people likely varied depending on the region and time period, there is substantial evidence to suggest that plant-based foods were a crucial component of their diets.

All that to say, there is a lot of evidence for both sides of the argument. That is why the verdict is still out for me.
Good luck on your own biochemically unique journey.

A Boulder Lifted; An Anchor Moved

Could my body create a problem big enough that it couldn’t fix it? I am going to suggest the answer is no. Our body doesn’t have the ability to kill itself. Its imperatives are too divine. That would be against its own will and nature.

Or better yet can I even know enough about reality to make the above statement with any surety other than my own self inflated sense of authority? Maybe not in so much as my knowledge is subject to my own limitations.

Yikes. Here we go

The creation that I exist in is infinite, eternal and unchangeable in its being, wisdom and power. It is all-sufficient, incomprehensible in its fullness, everywhere in its presence and it is a recording of all things.
The creation that I know exists in and of itself and from itself and is in no way dependent on us for its existence. My creation is not served by me, on the contrary, I am served by it.

The creation that I find my existence is not unique to me but a stream that is constantly flowing in only one direction without variance. As far as I can tell it is futile to even imagine a beginning or an end. I don’t have a light bright enough to shine that far back in time to see what a beginning would look like anyways. My history does not begin and end with me, that is the realm of my creator and its creation. It is the beginning and end; I am just along for the ride and the water is nice in this river of water of life.

If I want to know what is the purpose of this creation of mine I need look no further than the creation around me. Its purpose and function is everywhere; it knows no different. Its purpose is life and life more abundant if at every opportunity. If there is any lack of goodness or purpose in the creation around me it is because I or one like me has interfered in the course of nature; the stream of life(all things).
Purpose, symmetry and asymmetry…Balance.

Apparently, my creator is very merciful; compassionate in every way imaginable knowing the unusual amount of distress I once embodied as a creation; even to the ignoring of the continual and even willful missing of the mark. That mark and standard being life.

In its infinite wisdom my creator placed within its creation provision for the inevitability that marks would be missed and messes would need to be cleaned up. Not only is my creator compassionate enough to fix my problems but had enough forethought to plan on it.

The creation I enjoy supplies all of my needs even if I don’t understand that some of what I think I need is not as much of a need as a desire or something that possesses me; a possession. It is only when I strip away that which possesses me do I with sober-minded clarity see that my needs are very small and always met, it’s just that I have become gluttonous in my creators abundance.

This creation is one that does not by nature cause distress, but that does not mean that I or one like me within creation cannot or does not foment that which is distressing. I know…I am a drama-sapien. It is how, in my own head, I add meaning to my existence. If by chance that added meaning, narrative or for better lack of term, drama spills out into the creation around me, somehow mercy was there waiting for me too, with a smile; mop in hand.

This garden I know(my body); planted within creation, crafted by my creator who is clearly slow to anger. Forgiving of inequity and iniquity alike to maintain a creation free from hindrance. Ultimately ready to forgive me of both and more.

The lusts and overindulgences of this creature(Me) in this creation are independent of the creation’s creative act and is inconsistent with my creators will(direction/flow). My indiscretions are only egg on my face and in no way a reflection of my creator.

The creator of this creation is not difficult to understand, separated from its creation standing by with disinterest. And if I ever for a moment begin to think that the river of water of life I find myself in is going to stop course, reverse and flow the other way I just slap myself. That’s just silly. My creator seems to only know ONE WAY—>

If there appears to be change in my creation that is a creation of my own. A figment of my own creation; my own imagination gone to seed.

My creation does not and cannot suffer. It only knows life and conservation thereof even through death. My creator is without body, parts, or passions. Without emotion, whether grief, pain or sorrow; knowing only stability and a steadiness of action.

I imagine my creator is nothing I could or should even begin to wrap an image around. So far every god I’ve seen fashioned seems to look an awful lot like the creature rather than the creation. That and I might not like what I see if I actually were able to observe.

And even if I were able to observe such a creator I imagine it would simply invoke more questions than answers in that the answers were never to be found, much less searched out.

There is no limit to creation, my creator or its creative powers. Yet I am limited by what I call time. Limited to such a small sliver of my creators existence that it appears immovable; like a rock. Like a statue frozen in time. Like a man with a swatter after a fly making an epic voyage across the vast Sea of Kitchen, I imagine we look much like the Statue of Liberty to that annoying imp of a buzzard.

The power and wisdom of our creator is everywhere all at once in balance whether we see all that is being held in balance; homeostasis.

The power of our creator and creation is one and its life giving force flows from one source; our innermost being and it is simpler than we can imagine because it is precisely the fruit and excesses of our imagination
that obscures our access to the creative life giving force within.

That which is called god for better lack of language is provident to say the least providing for us everything we need even in our ignorance gross, slight or acute. Nature doesn’t usually just rain on individuals but everyone under the cloud even though occasionally it does appear as though the sun does smile upon us uniquely at times.

My creator is always right and good and just; factors of which I have no bearing. A unity in simplicity of parts that begins with on that becomes everything else fulfilling all creation as intended from insemination. We couldn’t create a god if we tried because everything that already exists is god in essence and it is I the hearty fool to think he can improve on perfection.

It was in me all along.

– Michael J. Loomis