634: The "Healthy" Foods You Absolutely Should Not Eat! (Avoid These Foods) | Dr. Paul Saladino
Jan 7, 2025
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Dr. Paul Saladino, a double board certified MD and expert in the animal-based diet, dives deep into the myths surrounding 'healthy' foods. He challenges conventional wisdom by revealing the potential drawbacks of staples like kale and oatmeal, linking them to thyroid health issues. The discussion also emphasizes the nutritional power of red meat and organ meats, while addressing critical topics like the impact of light on sleep and the dangers of linoleic acid in modern diets. His insights urge a reevaluation of our food choices for better health.
Excessive linoleic acid intake from processed seed oils leads to oxidative stress, negatively impacting cell membrane health and increasing risks.
Natural sweeteners like fruit, fruit juices, and honey can enhance metabolic health and improve insulin sensitivity, contrary to common misconceptions.
Red meat is a nutrient-rich food that provides essential benefits and should not be avoided in a balanced diet.
Many commonly perceived healthy foods like salad greens and grains have anti-nutritional factors that could harm health, necessitating careful evaluation.
Deep dives
The Impact of Linoleic Acid on Health
Excess consumption of linoleic acid in the diet leads to an accumulation in cell membranes, resulting in oxidative stress and increased health risks. This scenario is likened to having dry wood around a home with a constant fire; it creates a hazardous situation. Studies indicate that a diet lower in polyunsaturated fats positively affects cell membrane health and overall well-being. Therefore, reducing linoleic acid intake by avoiding processed seed oils and grain-fed animal products can be beneficial.
Metabolic Benefits of Fruits and Honey
Contrary to common misconceptions, fruit, fruit juices, and honey do not impair metabolic health or contribute to diabetes. Research suggests that these natural sweeteners may actually enhance metabolic function, as evidenced by a controlled trial where honey improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in diabetic patients. The consumption of whole fruits provides nutrients without detrimental effects associated with refined sugars. Thus, including these items in the diet can promote better metabolic outcomes.
The Misunderstood Red Meat
Red meat, often unjustly vilified, is actually a highly nutritious food that can be beneficial for health. It is healthier than both chicken and pork and should not be feared as a dietary option. Studies show that red meat provides essential nutrients that are vital for bodily functions and overall well-being. Reassessing the nutritional value of red meat can encourage individuals to incorporate it back into their diets without concern.
The Health Risks of Plant-Based Foods
Many foods often considered healthy, such as salad greens, oatmeal, and grains, could be detrimental to health due to the presence of defense chemicals and anti-nutritional factors. Salad greens, particularly spinach and kale, contain oxalates, which have been linked to kidney stones and other health issues for sensitive individuals. Oats and grains can impair mineral absorption due to high levels of phytic acid, and the heavy metal accumulation in many grains poses additional risks. An honest evaluation of these foods is vital for individuals experiencing unexplained health symptoms.
The Dangers of Fish Consumption
Fish, once viewed as a healthful option, is now fraught with concerns over heavy metal contamination and overall quality. Freshwater fish are particularly polluted, and farmed fish accumulate harmful substances, making their consumption risky. Additionally, concerns about biological toxicity from certain fish sources highlight the need for careful selection of seafood in the diet. As a result, individuals may want to reconsider how much fish they incorporate into their diets.
Understanding Oxalates and Their Effects
High oxalate levels in certain foods, especially spinach and certain nuts, pose gastrointestinal risks for many individuals. These compounds can lead to kidney stones and require careful management in the diet for those sensitive to them. Foods known to be high in oxalates should be monitored, and individuals with a history of kidney issues should be cautious. Exploring alternative sources for nutrients typically derived from high-oxalate foods can alleviate health concerns.
The Role of Dairy in Nutrition
Raw milk, particularly A2 milk, provides unique health benefits and supports metabolic functions due to its natural nutrient profile. Unlike pasteurized milk, raw milk maintains beneficial bacteria and enzymes, which may enhance gut health and nutrient absorption. Even though raw milk has associated risks, choosing quality sources can mitigate concerns. Including dairy in the diet can facilitate mineral absorption, especially calcium, which supports bone health.
The Balance of Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids
A critical imbalance in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids due to an increased intake of processed seed oils can lead to health issues. High levels of omega-6 consume metabolic pathways necessary for processing omega-3s, resulting in deficiencies. As a solution, reducing omega-6 sources while consuming adequate omega-3 can restore balance and improve overall health. Emphasizing a diet low in seed oils and rich in omega-3 sources can enhance well-being and prevent disease.
Dr. Paul Saladino is a double board certified MD and leading authority on the science and application of the animal-based diet. His version consists of meat, organs, fruit, honey and raw dairy.
