Part 201 - Brad Kearns on Finding the Holy Grail of Diet & Lifestyle
Aug 31, 2023
auto_awesome
Brad Kearns, former professional triathlete, shares his journey and discusses ancestral health movement, evolution of diets, importance of cleaning up diet, impact of diet and lifestyle choices, and optimal approach to fat loss.
Finding a balance in health and fitness is crucial, avoiding extreme diets or exercise regimens that can cause harm.
Regular movement and avoiding excessive sedentary behavior are essential for optimal health.
It is important to evaluate what is truly optimal for long-term health and well-being, rather than focusing solely on what is possible.
Deep dives
Importance of finding balance in health and fitness
Finding a balance in health and fitness is crucial to achieve optimal well-being. It is important to avoid extreme and restrictive diets or exercise regimens that can cause stress and potential harm to the body. While certain practices like fasting, cold plunges, and carb restriction can provide benefits, it is necessary to consider their impact on overall health and longevity. Emphasizing nutrient-dense, whole foods, regular movement throughout the day, and prioritizing rest and recovery are foundational principles for a healthy lifestyle.
The need to move and avoid excessive sedentary behavior
Regular movement and avoiding excessive sedentary behavior are essential for optimal health. Humans are designed for constant everyday movement, and even short periods of stillness can have negative effects on glucose tolerance, insulin resistance, and cognitive function. Incorporating low-intensity aerobic activity, brief intense workouts, and strength training can enhance overall fitness. It is important to strike a balance between exercise and everyday movement, as both are necessary for a healthy and energetic lifestyle.
The distinction between what is possible and what is optimal
While it is important to challenge oneself and strive for excellence, it is crucial to evaluate what is truly optimal for long-term health and well-being rather than focusing solely on what is possible. Pushing oneself to extreme limits, whether in exercise routines, dietary practices, or other stressors, can lead to burnout, injury, or negative health consequences. It is advisable to find the right balance and prioritize self-care and overall well-being.
Managing stress and avoiding overexertion
Stress management is key when it comes to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Overexertion and excessive stress, whether physical or mental, can have detrimental effects on the body. It is important to listen to one's body and recognize the signs of overtraining or excessive stress, such as injuries, hormone imbalances, or decreased performance. Prioritizing rest, recovery, and incorporating stress-reducing practices like meditation or hobbies can help maintain a healthy equilibrium.
The Importance of Protein in the Morning
Getting protein in the morning is crucial to prevent the breakdown of amino acids. Fasting until noon may not be ideal as it can lead to a catabolic state. Fruit is a nutrient-dense food that fueled human evolution and should not be demonized.
Differentiating Between Nutritious and Problematic Carbohydrates
There is a need to distinguish between nutritious and easy-to-digest carbs and potentially problematic carbs found in processed foods. Plant foods, especially raw forms, may contain plant toxins that can cause stomach distress. The nutrient profiles of whole foods like oysters, pasture-raised eggs, and organ meat far outweigh that of salads and plant foods, making them more nutritionally advantageous.
He has written twenty books on diet, health, peak performance, and ancestral living, and is a popular speaker, retreat host, and face of the Primal Blueprint online multimedia educational courses. In 2017, The Keto Reset Diet became a New York Times bestseller, and briefly ranked as the #1 overall bestselling book on amazon.com. Brad also hosts the B.rad podcast
