Can Long-Term Beta-Oxidation Harm Metabolism?

In this episode we dive into a hotly debated topic: should you eat meat or not? Ben is joined by two powerhouse guests with decades of experience in nutrition and health—Dr. Shawn Baker, best-selling author of The Carnivore Diet and leading carnivore advocate, and Joel Greene, creator of The Immunity Code and champion of dietary diversity.

In this spirited debate, Dr. Baker highlights the benefits of a strict carnivore approach—meat, eggs, some dairy, and minimal plant foods—not only for himself but also for patients managing chronic health issues. He explains why animal-based nutrition can be so effective, breaks down the science of ketosis and gut health, and responds to concerns about long-term effects of fiber-free diets.

Meanwhile, Joel Greene makes the case for dietary variety, drawing from evolutionary biology, clinical research, and personal experience. He explores the synergies of combining animal and plant foods, the role of fiber in gut and immune health, and the ancestral rhythms of scarcity and feasting. Joel argues that even small amounts of diverse foods can offset downsides of strict elimination diets.

Dr. Baker is a physician, athlete, and author known for his straightforward, meat-focused approach to nutrition and his background in strength sports. Joel is the creator of Veep Nutrition, a program targeting gut communities to improve health, used by major employers and featured on the Dr. Phil Show. Author of The Immunity Code, Joel has devoted 50 years to health and anti-aging, pioneering practices like MCTs in the ’80s, keto in the ’90s, and AMPK activation by 2009. At 55, he remains a 100% natural athlete.

Full show notes: bengreenfieldlife.com/diversityorcarnivore

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