Balancing Mechanistic Risks with Practical Outcomes

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: https://bengreenfieldlife.com/diversityorcarnivore/

Episode Sponsors:

Unmatched: Outlier by Unmatched is the world's first pre-workout featuring Paraxanthine instead of caffeine, delivering sustained energy and focus without the crash, plus premium ingredients like Cognizin for cognitive enhancement and NO3-T for incredible muscle pumps. Try it at unmatchedsupps.com/bengreenfield with special bulk discounts: 15% off one, 20% off two, or 25% off three.

Xtendlife: Future-proof your health with Xtendlife’s Total Balance—100+ bio-active ingredients in a gender-specific formula designed for longevity and complete daily support. Use code BEN15 at www.xtend-life.com/ben for 15% off sitewide, plus free shipping.

IM8: Ditch the cabinet full of supplements—IM8 packs 92 powerhouse ingredients into one delicious scoop for all-day energy, gut health, and cellular support. Go to IM8Health.com and use code BEN for an exclusive gift—fuel your body the right way!

LMNT: Everyone needs electrolytes, especially those on low-carb diets, who practice intermittent or extended fasting, are physically active, or sweat a lot. Go to DrinkLMNT.com/BenGreenfield to get a free sample pack with your purchase!

Ketone-IQ: Ketone-IQ delivers science-backed performance fuel that increases power output by 19%, reduces fatigue by 10%, and naturally boosts EPO production for better oxygen delivery—trusted by elite athletes like Jon Jones and Olympic champions. Save 30% on your subscription plus get a free gift with your second shipment at Ketone.com/BENG.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.