Episode #343. Vegan vs. carnivore – which diet stands up to the science? Join me in this fiery debate to find out. Hosted by Ellen Fisher, this thought-provoking episode pits me, Simon Hill, against Dr Robert Kiltz, a leading voice in the carnivore and keto movements.
Together, we explore opposing perspectives on nutrition, from the hierarchy of evidence to the health implications of plant-based and animal-based diets. Whether you’re vegan, carnivore, or somewhere in between, this conversation will challenge your views and help you make more informed decisions about your health and the planet.
Specifically, we discuss:
- Introduction (00:00)
- Personal Health Journeys: How Diet Shapes Our Lives (02:20)
- Scientific Evidence vs. Personal Anecdotes: Finding the Truth (07:50)
- Nutritional Science and Its Impact on Public Health (16:51)
- Mechanisms and Metabolic Health (22:55)
- Why Experts Disagree: Conflicting Views on Diet and Health (30:16)
- Ansel Keys Revisited: The Fat vs. Sugar Debate in Nutrition (54:45)
- Outliers in Research: How They Influence Diet Discussions (55:55)
- Did Humans Evolve to Eat Meat or Plants? (57:36)
- The Role of Fat: Separating Myths from Scientific Evidence (59:23)
- How Funding Influences Scientific Studies and Nutrition Advice (01:08:57)
- Why Dietary Guidelines Are So Complex and Confusing (01:13:17)
- Plant-Based vs. Carnivore: Which Diet Is Healthier? (01:18:58)
- Anecdotes in Nutrition: Do Personal Stories Hold Weight? (01:26:16)
- Diverse Perspectives: Why They Matter in Nutrition Science (01:30:44)
- Is There an Objective Truth in Nutrition Science? (01:46:01)
- Diet and Individual Truths: Why One Size Doesn’t Fit All (01:46:27)
- Profit Motives in Science and Medicine: What’s the Impact? (01:48:22)
- Processed Foods: Their Role in the Decline of Public Health (01:50:18)
- Health Testing: Can We Trust the Results? (01:53:03)
- Balancing Diet and Nutritional Freedom: Finding What Works (01:54:14)
- The Power of Stories: How They Shape Our Nutrition Beliefs (01:57:24)
- Evolutionary Diets: Do They Hold the Key to Health? (02:13:07)
- Ethical Diets and Planetary Health: Making Sustainable Choices (02:29:42)
- Final Reflections: Key Insights from the Nutrition Debate (02:33:36)
Discover more of The Ellen Fisher Podcast at https://www.ellenfisher.com/podcast. Learn more about Dr Kiltz at https://www.doctorkiltz.com/blog/.
This episode is brought to you by:
38TERA
Consider 38TERA's DMN-01 prebiotic supplement a daily multivitamin for your gut. Formulated by yours truly and gastroenterologist Dr Will Bulsiewicz. Use code THEPROOF for a discount at checkout.
Eimele
Eimele Essential 8 is a comprehensive multivitamin that is scientifically formulated to complement your plant-rich diet, increase and sustain your energy, and support the immune system, as well as heart and brain health. Follow this link for 20% off one-time purchases and subscriptions.
NordVPN
Protect your personal data and browse with confidence using NordVPN. With fast servers and advanced encryption, NordVPN protects you – even on public Wi-Fi – and unlocks content worldwide. EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ nordvpn.com/theproof. Try it risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Momentous
My go-to supplement brand for protein and creatine is Momentous. Get 20% off your first purchase by using the code LIVINGPROOF at checkout at livemomentous.com
Want to support the show?
The best way to support the show is to use the products and services offered by our sponsors. To check them out, and enjoy great savings, visit theproof.com/friends. You can also show your support by leaving a review on the Apple Podcast app and/or sharing your favourite episodes with your friends and family.
Simon Hill, MSc, BSc (Hons)
Creator of theproof.com and host of The Proof with Simon Hill
Author of The Proof is in the Plants
Watch the episodes on YouTube or listen on Apple/Spotify
The Proof with Simon Hill 
