

The Primal Shift
Michael Kummer
Primal Shift is about helping you achieve optimal health by bridging the gap between ancestral living and the demands of modern society. We’ll talk about every aspect of a healthy life, including sleep, nutrition, exercise, stress management, environmental toxins, hormesis, belonging and tribalism, and reconnecting with nature.
Get ready to unlock the transformative power of nature as the ultimate biohack, revolutionize your health and reconnect you with your primal self. Each episode is short and concise, providing you with actionable tips and tricks you can use to start living a more primal lifestyle today.
Get ready to unlock the transformative power of nature as the ultimate biohack, revolutionize your health and reconnect you with your primal self. Each episode is short and concise, providing you with actionable tips and tricks you can use to start living a more primal lifestyle today.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 27, 2025 • 19min
106: Why Eating Like Your Grandparents Won’t Save You
In this episode, I explore whether following an ancestral diet and traditional eating habits is enough to keep us healthy today. While our grandparents thrived on simple meals, the reality of modern food quality, hidden environmental toxins, and processed foods inflammation paint a different picture. I share how chronic stress and health challenges, along with changes like A1 vs A2 milk casein, affect our bodies in ways past generations didn’t face. We’ll look at why homesteading health problems persist despite “clean eating,” and how a slow living lifestyle can help bridge the genetic mismatch modern diet creates. Tune in to uncover the real reasons why eating like your grandparents won’t save you. Learn more: Is An Animal-Based Diet Healthy?: https://michaelkummer.com/animal-based-diet/ 59: Paleo, Keto, Carnivore [Navigating Dietary Changes as a Family]: https://www.primalshiftpodcast.com/59-paleo-keto-carnivore-navigating-dietary-changes-as-a-family/ 4: The Ultimate Guide to Animal-Based Nutrition: https://www.primalshiftpodcast.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-animal-based-nutrition/ Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, OneSkin! OneSkin’s lineup of topical skin health products leverage the power of the company’s proprietary OS-01 peptide to remove dead skin cells, improve collagen production, increase skin hydration and more. Check out my before and after photos in my OneSkin review: https://michaelkummer.com/health/oneskin-review/ Get 15% off with my discount code MKUMMER: https://michaelkummer.com/go/oneskinshop In this episode: 00:00 Introduction: Should you eat like your grandparents? 00:42 Reflecting on childhood eating habits 03:27 The paradox of modern homesteading 05:29 Chronic stress and its impact on health 08:55 Changes in food quality over time 11:19 Environmental and lifestyle factors 13:55 Striving for a healthier, simpler life 18:38 Final thoughts: Finding balance in modern life Find me on social media for more health and wellness content: Website: https://michaelkummer.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primalshiftpodcast/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/michaelkummer/ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/mkummer82 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realmichaelkummer/ [Medical Disclaimer] The information shared on this video is for educational purposes only, is not a substitute for the advice of medical doctors or registered dietitians (which I am not) and should not be used to prevent, diagnose, or treat any condition. Consult with a physician before starting a fitness regimen, adding supplements to your diet, or making other changes that may affect your medications, treatment plan, or overall health. [Affiliate Disclaimer] I earn affiliate commissions from some of the brands and products I review on this channel. While that doesn't change my editorial integrity, it helps make this channel happen. If you’d like to support me, please use my affiliate links or discount code. #Diet #Nutrition

Aug 20, 2025 • 13min
105: The Anti-Fatigue Factor in Liver Nobody Can Explain
In this episode, I share a fascinating 1950s endurance experiment with rats that uncovered what researchers called an “anti-fatigue factor” in beef liver. The results highlight why organ meats like liver are nature’s ultimate multivitamin and how even small micronutrient deficiencies can wreck ATP energy production, mitochondrial health, and overall performance. I’ll walk you through what the study revealed, how it ties into modern fatigue and performance issues, and why I believe high-quality liver supplements are one of the simplest ways to cover nutritional gaps. If you’ve ever wondered about beef liver benefits or why organ meats nutrition matters, this story will change how you think about natural energy. Discount Code: Use code YOUTUBE to get 20% OFF MK Supplements Learn more: The original 1951 study on liver’s anti-fatigue factor: https://www.cabidigitallibrary.org/doi/full/10.5555/19511403380 You’ve Been LIED To About Beef Liver & Vitamin A: https://youtu.be/g2VxaIh_oPs The Hidden Problem With "Superfood Fixes": https://youtu.be/gLC8Z9wN3Nk Why Eating Beef Liver Is Good For You: https://michaelkummer.com/beef-liver-benefits/ Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, Peluva! Peluva makes minimalist shoes to support optimal foot, back and joint health. I started wearing Peluvas several months ago, and I haven’t worn regular shoes since. I encourage you to consider trading your sneakers or training shoes for a pair of Peluvas, and then watch the health of your feet and lower back improve while reducing your risk of injury. To learn more about why I love Peluva barefoot shoes, check out my in-depth review: https://michaelkummer.com/health/peluva-review/ And use code MICHAEL to get 10% off your first pair: https://michaelkummer.com/go/peluva In this episode: 00:00 Intro 01:23 The 1950s rat endurance experiment 04:15 Unexpected endurance results 06:48 Nutritional insights from liver 09:46 Modern implications and recommendations 12:14 Final thoughts Find me on social media for more health and wellness content: Website: https://michaelkummer.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primalshiftpodcast/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/michaelkummer/ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/mkummer82 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realmichaelkummer/ [Medical Disclaimer] The information shared on this video is for educational purposes only, is not a substitute for the advice of medical doctors or registered dietitians (which I am not) and should not be used to prevent, diagnose, or treat any condition. Consult with a physician before starting a fitness regimen, adding supplements to your diet, or making other changes that may affect your medications, treatment plan, or overall health. [Affiliate Disclaimer] I earn affiliate commissions from some of the brands and products I review on this channel. While that doesn't change my editorial integrity, it helps make this channel happen. If you’d like to support me, please use my affiliate links or discount code. #BeefLiver #EnergyLevels

Aug 13, 2025 • 16min
104: Why I Switched from 2 Meals to 3 a Day
For years I thrived on two large meals a day – a late-morning breakfast after training and an early dinner. And the results spoke for themselves: stable blood sugar, excellent insulin sensitivity, low body fat, and plenty of energy. But I began noticing a drawback. Those evening meals, heavy in protein and fat, kept my digestive system working for hours after I went to bed, raising my heart rate, lowering my HRV, and occasionally causing acid reflux. Shifting dinner earlier didn’t help much, and I wasn’t hungry first thing in the morning, so forcing an earlier breakfast felt just as unnatural. In this episode, I break down why I’ve shifted from two meals to three, and what that change has done for my energy, recovery, and sleep quality. I walk through the benefits I saw from a two-meal pattern, the specific problems that crept in over time, and how spreading my daily protein and calorie intake across breakfast, lunch, and dinner has improved digestion, lowered nighttime stress on my body, and left me waking up more refreshed. The takeaway isn’t that everyone should eat three times a day – or twice, or just once. It’s that meal timing and frequency should fit your body’s needs, your goals, and your lifestyle. The right pattern for you is the one that leaves you feeling and performing your best. For me right now, that means three balanced meals, each big enough to satisfy without overloading my digestion before sleep. Learn more: Primal Shift Podcast #18: What I Eat in an Animal‑Based Diet https://www.primalshiftpodcast.com/what-i-eat-in-an-animal-based-diet-my-go-to-food-choices-and-supplements/ Primal Shift Podcast #34: Understanding Macronutrients: Protein, Fat: https://www.primalshiftpodcast.com/33-understanding-macronutrients-protein-fat-and-carbohydrates-in-human-nutrition/ 14 Reasons Why You Feel Hungry All the Time: https://michaelkummer.com/reasons-you-feel-hungry/ YouTube+15Michael Kummer+15Michael Kummer+15 Debunking 23 Common Nutrition Myths: https://michaelkummer.com/top-nutrition-myths/ Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, OneSkin! OneSkin’s lineup of topical skin health products leverage the power of the company’s proprietary OS-01 peptide to remove dead skin cells, improve collagen production, increase skin hydration and more. Check out my before and after photos in my OneSkin review: https://michaelkummer.com/health/oneskin-review/ Get 15% off with my discount code MKUMMER: https://michaelkummer.com/go/oneskinshop In this episode: 00:00 Intro 00:45 Debunking the three meals a day myth 01:46 Personal experience with two meals a day 03:46 Benefits of two meals a day 06:25 Challenges with two meals a day 09:23 Experimenting with three meals a day 14:01 Encouragement to listen to your body 15:40 Final thoughts Find me on social media for more health and wellness content: Website: https://michaelkummer.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primalshiftpodcast/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/michaelkummer/ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/mkummer82 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realmichaelkummer/ [Medical Disclaimer] The information shared on this video is for educational purposes only, is not a substitute for the advice of medical doctors or registered dietitians (which I am not) and should not be used to prevent, diagnose, or treat any condition. Consult with a physician before starting a fitness regimen, adding supplements to your diet, or making other changes that may affect your medications, treatment plan, or overall health. [Affiliate Disclaimer] I earn affiliate commissions from some of the brands and products I review on this channel. While that doesn't change my editorial integrity, it helps make this channel happen. If you’d like to support me, please use my affiliate links or discount code. #Fasting #Nutrition #Meals

Aug 6, 2025 • 39min
103: The Shocking Truth About Mouth Breathing with Alex Neist CEO of Hostage Tape
Snoring isn’t normal—it’s a warning sign. In this episode, I sit down with Alex Neist, founder of Hostage Tape, to talk about the real dangers of mouth breathing, why quality sleep starts with your nose, and how mouth taping changed his life (and saved his marriage). We cover everything from snoring solutions and sleep apnea natural remedies to the science behind nasal breathing benefits and how to mouth tape for workouts. If you’ve read Breath by James Nestor, this conversation takes it to the next level. About Alex Neist: Alex Neist is the founder and CEO of Hostage Tape, the #1 mouth tape brand transforming how people sleep. After struggling with snoring and a broken marriage, he discovered mouth taping, restored his health, and got his family back—fueling a mission that now impacts over 200,000 customers worldwide. Website: hostagetape.com Learn more: 3: 10 Hacks That Will Change the Way You Sleep: https://www.primalshiftpodcast.com/10-hacks-that-will-change-the-way-you-sleep/ 85: Sleep Before Midnight: Does It Really Matter?: https://www.primalshiftpodcast.com/85-sleep-before-midnight-does-it-really-matter/ Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, Peluva! Peluva makes minimalist shoes to support optimal foot, back and joint health. I started wearing Peluvas several months ago, and I haven’t worn regular shoes since. I encourage you to consider trading your sneakers or training shoes for a pair of Peluvas, and then watch the health of your feet and lower back improve while reducing your risk of injury. To learn more about why I love Peluva barefoot shoes, check out my in-depth review: https://michaelkummer.com/health/peluva-review/ And use code MICHAEL to get 10% off your first pair: https://michaelkummer.com/go/peluva In this episode: 00:00 Intro: The snoring problem 02:59 The impact of processed foods and breastfeeding 08:21 Personal stories and testimonials 08:47 The turning point: Discovering mouth taping 16:44 The benefits of nasal breathing during exercise 19:48 The importance of nasal breathing 20:19 The dangers of mouth breathing 20:52 Benefits of nasal breathing 21:47 Mouth taping and dental health 23:22 Addressing concerns about mouth taping 28:52 The market response to Hostage Tape 32:58 The evolution of mouth-taping acceptance 37:44 Final thoughts Find me on social media for more health and wellness content: Website: https://michaelkummer.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primalshiftpodcast/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/michaelkummer/ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/mkummer82 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realmichaelkummer/ [Medical Disclaimer] The information shared on this video is for educational purposes only, is not a substitute for the advice of medical doctors or registered dietitians (which I am not) and should not be used to prevent, diagnose, or treat any condition. Consult with a physician before starting a fitness regimen, adding supplements to your diet, or making other changes that may affect your medications, treatment plan, or overall health. [Affiliate Disclaimer] I earn affiliate commissions from some of the brands and products I review on this channel. While that doesn't change my editorial integrity, it helps make this channel happen. If you’d like to support me, please use my affiliate links or discount code. #HostageTape #PrimalHealth

Jul 30, 2025 • 21min
102: Everyday Products That Destroy Hormones
Too much estrogen — even the fake kind — is wrecking our health. In this episode, Kathy and I break down the hidden endocrine disruptors lurking in your bathroom: shampoos, lotions, deodorants, candles, and even “natural” products that aren’t so natural. We share the exact non-toxic swaps we’ve made over the years (without breaking the bank), and why some “clean” labels still aren’t enough. We also dive into feminine health, EMF mitigation, and the real reason birth control might be one of the most damaging drugs women are prescribed — and what to do instead. This is Part 2 of our series on everyday toxins and how to avoid them — simple shifts that protect your hormones, fertility, skin, and long-term health. Learn more: Download for FREE the Ultimate Non-Toxic Essentials Guide: https://michaelkummer.com/non-toxic-products/ Get 10% off Waveblock with the code KUMMER10 at: https://michaelkummer.com/go/waveblock Young Goose: Get 5% off with my discount code MKUMMER: https://michaelkummer.com/go/younggoose Mother Fo Care: Get 15% off with my discount code Winter15 https://motherfocare.com/ Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, OneSkin! OneSkin’s lineup of topical skin health products leverage the power of the company’s proprietary OS-01 peptide to remove dead skin cells, improve collagen production, increase skin hydration and more. Check out my before and after photos in my OneSkin review: https://michaelkummer.com/health/oneskin-review/ Get 15% off with my discount code MKUMMER: https://michaelkummer.com/go/oneskinshop In this episode: 00:00 Intro 01:40 Personal care products and fragrances 03:25 Swapping to non-toxic alternatives 04:54 Deodorants and skincare 09:19 Pharmaceuticals and hormones 12:13 Feminine health and birth control 15:32 EMF mitigation strategies 19:41 Conclusion and final tips Find me on social media for more health and wellness content: Website: https://michaelkummer.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primalshiftpodcast/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/michaelkummer/ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/mkummer82 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realmichaelkummer/ [Medical Disclaimer] The information shared on this video is for educational purposes only, is not a substitute for the advice of medical doctors or registered dietitians (which I am not) and should not be used to prevent, diagnose, or treat any condition. Consult with a physician before starting a fitness regimen, adding supplements to your diet, or making other changes that may affect your medications, treatment plan, or overall health. [Affiliate Disclaimer] I earn affiliate commissions from some of the brands and products I review on this channel. While that doesn't change my editorial integrity, it helps make this channel happen. If you’d like to support me, please use my affiliate links or discount code. #NonToxicProducts #WellnessOptimization

Jul 23, 2025 • 33min
101: Hidden Toxins at Home: What You're Doing Wrong
In this episode, Kathy and I unpack how we reduced our exposure to environmental toxins—from improving tap water safety and installing water filtration systems, to replacing plastic containers and upgrading to non-toxic cookware. We talk about chlorine exposure in showers and pools, how we built a more toxin-free home, and why choosing organic food and chemical-free living matters more than you think. Got questions or already making changes at home? Drop a comment—we’d love to hear from you. Learn more: Download for FREE the Ultimate Non-Toxic Essentials Guide: https://michaelkummer.com/non-toxic-products/ Top NON-TOXIC Household and Personal Care Products (We Use at Home): https://youtu.be/dNiaE0xP2a8 Top 6 Non-Toxic Skincare Brands for Healthier Skin (Switch to Clean Products): https://youtu.be/F3hxgd8JzAo Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, Peluva! Peluva makes minimalist shoes to support optimal foot, back and joint health. I started wearing Peluvas several months ago, and I haven’t worn regular shoes since. I encourage you to consider trading your sneakers or training shoes for a pair of Peluvas, and then watch the health of your feet and lower back improve while reducing your risk of injury. To learn more about why I love Peluva barefoot shoes, check out my in-depth review: https://michaelkummer.com/health/peluva-review/ And use code MICHAEL to get 10% off your first pair: https://michaelkummer.com/go/peluva In this episode: 00:00 Introduction to environmental toxins 01:00 Breaking down environmental toxins 01:51 Drinking water concerns 03:30 Water filtration solutions 10:10 Food and pesticides 14:26 Plastic and food storage 15:38 Switching to glass and silicone containers 16:50 Reusing jars and avoiding aluminum foil 18:18 The dangers of BPA and BPS in plastics 19:47 Bamboo and stainless steel alternatives 22:10 Choosing natural fibers for clothing and bedding 25:07 Household cleaners and appliances 29:40 Final thoughts Find me on social media for more health and wellness content: Website: https://michaelkummer.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primalshiftpodcast/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/michaelkummer/ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/mkummer82 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realmichaelkummer/ [Medical Disclaimer] The information shared on this video is for educational purposes only, is not a substitute for the advice of medical doctors or registered dietitians (which I am not) and should not be used to prevent, diagnose, or treat any condition. Consult with a physician before starting a fitness regimen, adding supplements to your diet, or making other changes that may affect your medications, treatment plan, or overall health. [Affiliate Disclaimer] I earn affiliate commissions from some of the brands and products I review on this channel. While that doesn't change my editorial integrity, it helps make this channel happen. If you’d like to support me, please use my affiliate links or discount code. #NonToxicProducts #WellnessOptimization

Jul 15, 2025 • 11min
100: Why Vegan Diets Kill 7.3 B Critters
When most people think about saving the planet, they picture cutting back on meat and eating more plants. But what if the story we’ve been told about how plant-based diets equate to sustainability is missing half the truth (and hiding a massive environmental cost)? In this episode of the Primal Shift Podcast, I pull back the curtain on the industrial food system most people never see. From the 90 billion honeybees trucked across the country each spring to pollinate almond trees to the 7.3 billion wild animals killed each year by harvest machinery, the data tells a very different story than the slogans. This isn’t about pitting vegans against meat-eaters. It’s about showing how industrial monoculture destroys soil, collapses insect populations, drains water tables, and kills countless small mammals and pollinators in the name of “clean” eating. If you’re ready to rethink food systems from the soil up, this episode is for you. 🎉 Special Announcement: Ep. 100 GIVEAWAY! 🎉 We’re celebrating 100 episodes of the Primal Shift Podcast by giving away our entire MK Supps product line (yes, even the measuring scoop!) to ONE lucky winner. Here’s how to enter: 1. Follow @mksupps and @primalshiftpodcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mksupps?igsh=Y2wwbWcyanFibDJl https://www.instagram.com/primalshiftpodcast?igsh=MTVneDIyY3N2MHhseA== 2. Like and tag 3 friends in the comments of our giveaway post 📌 That’s it! The winner will be selected July 21. Good luck! Disclaimer: This giveaway is in no way sponsored or endorsed by YouTube or Google. Learn more: Part 1 Episode 99: Plants vs Animals: Why Meat Beats Plants for Nutrition: https://www.primalshiftpodcast.com/99-plants-vs-animals-why-meat-beats-plants-for-nutrition/ Plants vs. Meat: Why I Stopped Eating Veggies: https://michaelkummer.com/plants-vs-meat/ 49: From Almonds to Spinach: Dr. Schindler on Avoiding Common Dietary Traps: https://www.primalshiftpodcast.com/49-from-almonds-to-spinach-dr-schindler-on-avoiding-common-dietary-traps/ In this episode: 00:00 The hidden cost of food production 00:56 100th episode GIVEAWAY 01:38 The environmental impact of plant-based diets 02:26 The true cost of almonds and monocultures 03:17 The hidden toll of modern harvesting 04:57 Regenerative grazing: A sustainable solution 05:22 Water usage: Plants vs. Animals 06:50 Methane and the carbon cycle 08:44 Practical tips for sustainable living 10:34 Conclusion: reflecting on food systems Find me on social media for more health and wellness content: Website: https://michaelkummer.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primalshiftpodcast/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/michaelkummer/ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/mkummer82 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realmichaelkummer/ [Medical Disclaimer] The information shared on this video is for educational purposes only, is not a substitute for the advice of medical doctors or registered dietitians (which I am not) and should not be used to prevent, diagnose, or treat any condition. Consult with a physician before starting a fitness regimen, adding supplements to your diet, or making other changes that may affect your medications, treatment plan, or overall health. [Affiliate Disclaimer] I earn affiliate commissions from some of the brands and products I review on this channel. While that doesn't change my editorial integrity, it helps make this channel happen. If you’d like to support me, please use my affiliate links or discount code. #Vegan #Plants #Animals #Diet

Jul 2, 2025 • 12min
99: Plants vs Animals: Why Meat Beats Plants for Nutrition
For most of human history, survival depended on eating the foods that gave us the most nutrients with the least effort. That usually meant animals, which are dense in protein, fat, and bioavailable vitamins and minerals. But in recent years, we’ve been told that plants are the true superfoods. Raw kale in your smoothie? Spinach salads every day? The darker and leafier, the better, right? Not quite. In this episode, I dive into the real story behind plant-based foods and the antinutrients they contain, as well as how they compare to animal-based sources of nutrition. We’ll talk about why humans evolved to thrive on meat, how plants defend themselves with chemical compounds like oxalates, lectins and goitrogens, and what all that means for your health. And I’ll share practical tips for how to prepare the least toxic plants safely — when and if you choose to include them in your diet. After struggling with IBS for over 30 years, I fixed my gut issues through a radical shift in how I approached food. It wasn’t about chasing superfoods or stacking more supplements. It was about eliminating the things that were holding me back, and embracing the nutrient-dense, low-toxin foods that our ancestors relied on for thousands of years. If you’re eating spinach every day or downing kale smoothies because they’re “healthy,” you might want to take a closer look at what those foods are actually doing to your body. And if you’ve avoided organ meats because of the taste, I’ll share a simple way to get their benefits without having to touch a skillet. This episode isn’t about fearmongering or food dogma. It’s about reclaiming clarity, understanding what’s actually nourishing, what’s neutral, and what might be slowly working against you. Learn more: Plants vs. Meat: Why I Stopped Eating Veggies: https://michaelkummer.com/plants-vs-meat/ 49: From Almonds to Spinach: Dr. Schindler on Avoiding Common Dietary Traps: https://www.primalshiftpodcast.com/49-from-almonds-to-spinach-dr-schindler-on-avoiding-common-dietary-traps/ 6 Benefits of Beef Liver I Wish I Had Known About Sooner: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HuoJaIXdAYI In this episode: 00:00 Intro 00:36 Debunking common food myths 00:53 Overview of today's topics 01:34 The benefits of animal-based diets 03:15 Introduction to plant-based diets 05:44 Mitigating plant toxins 07:59 Best and worst plant foods 10:36 Final recommendations and conclusion Find me on social media for more health and wellness content: Website: https://michaelkummer.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primalshiftpodcast/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/michaelkummer/ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/mkummer82 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realmichaelkummer/ [Medical Disclaimer] The information shared on this video is for educational purposes only, is not a substitute for the advice of medical doctors or registered dietitians (which I am not) and should not be used to prevent, diagnose, or treat any condition. Consult with a physician before starting a fitness regimen, adding supplements to your diet, or making other changes that may affect your medications, treatment plan, or overall health. [Affiliate Disclaimer] I earn affiliate commissions from some of the brands and products I review on this channel. While that doesn't change my editorial integrity, it helps make this channel happen. If you’d like to support me, please use my affiliate links or discount code. #Carnivore #Vegan #Plants #Animals

Jun 25, 2025 • 25min
98: This Is SPIKING Your Blood Sugar | Levels App + Dexcom G7 Findings
It’s easy to assume that food affects everyone the same way. But when my wife Kathy and I wore continuous glucose monitors for two weeks, we learned just how different our responses actually are. For example, a bowl of curry or a few slices of sourdough bread would send her blood sugar soaring while barely impacting mine, and vice versa. We weren’t just tracking data: we were uncovering real-time insight into how our individual metabolisms, hormones, stress, and even muscle mass shape our daily health outcomes. The experiment revealed a few surprising truths. For Kathy, sourdough and rice were consistent triggers, even when paired with protein and fat. Her blood sugar spiked above 200 mg/dL and stayed elevated for hours — a clear sign that not all “healthy carbs” are created equal. For me, the biggest spike didn’t come from food at all. It came from intense physical activity — proof that exercise-induced glucose changes are an entirely different metabolic story than post-meal crashes. The differences went deeper than food. Kathy’s menstrual cycle impacted her insulin sensitivity, and my lean muscle mass gave me an edge when it came to buffering glucose. We also saw how stress, sleep and cold plunging could subtly (and sometimes dramatically) influence blood sugar trends, even in the absence of a single bite of food. None of this was about fearmongering over carbs or obsessing over numbers. Wearing a CGM isn’t a lifestyle; it’s a short-term lens into how your body actually works. And once you connect the data to how you feel — sluggish after rice, energized after steak, restless after a late-night spike — that’s when you unlock real change. If you’re serious about optimizing your health, I highly recommend trying a CGM for just a few weeks. Learn what your body thrives on. Understand what derails you. And then build your habits accordingly. Because personalized data beats generic diet advice every time. Learn more: Try the Levels Health app and get 2 months free when you sign up for an annual membership with my affiliate link: levels.link/MK How Continuous Glucose Monitoring Can Improve Your Health and Fitness:https://michaelkummer.com/continuous-glucose-monitoring/ 44: Why You Should Wear a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM): https://www.primalshiftpodcast.com/44-why-you-should-wear-a-continuous-glucose-monitor-cgm/ Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, OneSkin! OneSkin’s lineup of topical skin health products leverage the power of the company’s proprietary OS-01 peptide to remove dead skin cells, improve collagen production, increase skin hydration and more. Check out my before and after photos in my OneSkin review: https://michaelkummer.com/health/oneskin-review/ Get 15% off with my discount code MKUMMER: https://michaelkummer.com/go/oneskinshop In this episode: 00:00 - Introduction: Blood Sugar Spikes 00:48 - Experiment Setup and Initial Findings 02:15 - Sourdough Experiment: A Surprising Spike 04:53 - Top Blood Sugar Triggers 07:17 - Personal Blood Sugar Responses 10:31 - Factors Influencing Blood Sugar 13:41 - Managing Blood Sugar Spikes 21:53 - Conclusion: Is a CGM Worth It? Find me on social media for more health and wellness content: Website: https://michaelkummer.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primalshiftpodcast/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/michaelkummer/ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/mkummer82 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realmichaelkummer/ [Medical Disclaimer] The information shared on this video is for educational purposes only, is not a substitute for the advice of medical doctors or registered dietitians (which I am not) and should not be used to prevent, diagnose, or treat any condition. Consult with a physician before starting a fitness regimen, adding supplements to your diet, or making other changes that may affect your medications, treatment plan, or overall health. [Affiliate Disclaimer] I earn affiliate commissions from some of the brands and products I review on this channel. While that doesn't change my editorial integrity, it helps make this channel happen. If you’d like to support me, please use my affiliate links or discount code. #LevelsHealth #CGM

Jun 18, 2025 • 11min
97: Are You Biohacking or Just Bullsh-tting?
Biohacking wasn’t always about gadgets. It used to be about building a better lifestyle by fixing root causes with movement, light, food and sleep. But somewhere along the way, optimization gave way to outsourcing. Today, it’s easy to mistake a tech solution for progress when it’s really just a more expensive version of the same mistake: treating symptoms instead of addressing causes. That shift was on full display at a recent biohacking conference I attended, where nearly every product promised better sleep, more energy or deeper calm — without requiring any meaningful change. The sales pitch has become eerily similar to Big Pharma: just take this “drug” and feel better… no behavior change required. But health doesn’t work like that. Wearing blue light blocking glasses while scrolling TikTok in bed misses the point. Slapping a mood gadget around your neck doesn’t solve emotional imbalance. And leaning on sleep tech while ignoring your circadian rhythm or pounding caffeine at 4 p.m. won’t fix recovery. Tools can support change, but too often, they delay it. I use plenty of tech myself: cold plunges, saunas and wearables to name a few. But I use them with intention. If I lived near a freezing lake, I’d ditch the plunge. If tracking sleep started creating stress, I’d take the ring off. Tools are valuable only when they move us toward better habits — not when they distract us from them. Ask yourself: is this device helping you build something real, or is it letting you avoid what needs to change? That’s the litmus test. If you’re micromanaging every glucose spike or feeling anxious about your recovery score, it might be time to simplify. You can’t outsource health. You can only build it, one habit at a time. Learn more: Pulsetto Review: Doctored Research and No Results: https://michaelkummer.com/pulsetto-review/ 92: Healthy Living Hacks That Save You Money Daily: https://www.primalshiftpodcast.com/92-healthy-living-hacks-that-save-you-money-daily/ 94: Stop Wasting Your Money on These 9 Biohack Devices!: https://www.primalshiftpodcast.com/94-stop-wasting-your-money-on-these-9-biohack-devices/ Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, Peluva! Peluva makes minimalist shoes to support optimal foot, back and joint health. I started wearing Peluvas several months ago, and I haven’t worn regular shoes since. I encourage you to consider trading your sneakers or training shoes for a pair of Peluvas, and then watch the health of your feet and lower back improve while reducing your risk of injury. To learn more about why I love Peluva barefoot shoes, check out my in-depth review: https://michaelkummer.com/health/peluva-review/ And use code MICHAEL to get 10% off your first pair: https://michaelkummer.com/go/peluva In this episode: 00:00 – Intro 00:15 – Biohacking defined 01:21 – Gadgets vs. habits 03:19 - My personal take 03:51 – Sauna & cold plunge 05:57 – Foundations of health 06:56 - I challenge you… 08:43 – Final thoughts Find me on social media for more health and wellness content: Website: https://michaelkummer.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primalshiftpodcast/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/michaelkummer/ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/mkummer82 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realmichaelkummer/ [Medical Disclaimer] The information shared on this video is for educational purposes only, is not a substitute for the advice of medical doctors or registered dietitians (which I am not) and should not be used to prevent, diagnose, or treat any condition. Consult with a physician before starting a fitness regimen, adding supplements to your diet, or making other changes that may affect your medications, treatment plan, or overall health. [Affiliate Disclaimer] I earn affiliate commissions from some of the brands and products I review on this channel. While that doesn't change my editorial integrity, it helps make this channel happen. If you’d like to support me, please use my affiliate links or discount code. #Biohacking #WellnessOptimization