The Truth About Raw Milk & Red Meat: Are They Vital for Health?
In this episode of the Pursuit of Wellness podcast, Brett Ender and Harry Gray share their personal health journeys with autoimmune diseases and how adopting animal-based diets played a significant role in their recovery. They delve into the healing potential of carnivore and raw dairy diets, highlighting the benefits of local, regenerative animal products and the importance of mindset in the healing process.
The discussion also touches on the impact of stress on autoimmune flare-ups, the role of balance in maintaining physical and mental well-being, and practical tips for incorporating nutrient-dense animal foods into an on-the-go lifestyle. The conversation offers insights into the potential health advantages of animal-based diets and their potential for managing autoimmune conditions.
This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the Sep 23, 2024 episode of the Pursuit of Wellness
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1-Page Summary
Personal health journeys and autoimmune disease
Brett's journey with ulcerative colitis
Brett was diagnosed with severe ulcerative colitis in college, causing frequent bloody stools and weight loss. Though initially prescribed expensive medications, Brett experienced improvements when he focused on cooking meals and exercising. Listening to a podcast in 2019 promoting an animal-based diet for autoimmune issues inspired Brett to change his diet. By 2021, he considered himself medically cured, attributing his recovery to his dietary and lifestyle changes against his doctor's advice.
Harry's journey with acne and gut issues
Harry battled severe acne and gut issues from childhood, aggravated by a poor diet high in sugar and processed foods. It wasn't until college, when he transitioned to a paleo diet, that his health significantly improved. Harry and Mari Llewellyn both credit their animal-based diets for resolving their skin and gut problems.
Animal-based diets and their benefits
The healing power of a carnivore or animal-based diet
Brett Ender eats nearly two pounds of red meat daily, without negative cholesterol effects. He finds animal-based diets eliminate potential trigger foods, helping manage his ulcerative colitis. Harry Gray notes historical use of raw dairy by naturopaths to promote healing.
The importance of mindset and belief in healing
Brett emphasizes his belief in his ability to heal as crucial, experiencing improvements like reduced inflammation, clearer skin, weight loss, and mental clarity on his diet. This aligns with the body's natural processes like autophagy.
Sourcing high-quality, regenerative animal products
Benefits of local farmers and ranchers
Brett and Harry advocate building relationships with local providers of grass-fed meats and eggs from sustainable, regenerative farms. They appreciate resources like eatwild.com for locating these sources.
US vs European food standards
Harry views European food standards as superior, with less reliance on additives and GMOs. Brett notes the US's misleading labeling and unethical chicken farming practices compared to Europe's more nutrient-dense products.
The role of stress and mindset
Stress and autoimmune flare-ups
Brett recounts his autoimmune symptoms worsening during stressful periods as an athlete and intern. Harry and Brett attribute flare-ups to heightened stress levels.
Finding balance
While benefiting from animal-based diets, Brett and Harry believe allowing indulgences and not stressing over strict adherence supports physical and mental well-being.
Practical tips
On-the-go snacks
Brett and Harry recommend portable animal-based snacks like pemmican bars, beef jerky/biltong, meat sticks, and protein powders for maintaining their diets.
Incorporating organ meats
They discuss the benefits and challenges of including nutrient-dense organ meats like raw liver in their diets through creative means like supplements or frozen cubes.
1-Page Summary
Additional Materials
Counterarguments
- While Brett and Harry have had positive experiences with animal-based diets, these diets may not be suitable for everyone and could lead to nutrient deficiencies if not carefully managed.
- The claim of being "medically cured" through diet alone is anecdotal and may not be supported by scientific evidence; long-term studies are needed to validate such claims.
- The consumption of large amounts of red meat is controversial and some studies suggest it may increase the risk of certain diseases, including heart disease and certain cancers.
- The historical use of raw dairy for healing is not widely supported by modern medical science and raw dairy can pose risks of foodborne illness.
- The belief in the ability to heal can be beneficial, but it should not replace evidence-based medical treatments.
- Sourcing from local farmers is ideal but may not be accessible or affordable for everyone, and the environmental impact of meat production is a concern regardless of farming practices.
- European food standards are different from US standards, but this does not inherently make them superior; each has its own set of regulations that can be more or less stringent in different areas.
- Stress management is important, but the direct correlation between stress and autoimmune flare-ups can vary greatly among individuals.
- Indulgences in diet can be part of a balanced lifestyle, but what constitutes an indulgence and its effects can differ from person to person.
- Portable animal-based snacks may be convenient but are not the only option for healthy on-the-go eating, and they may not align with everyone's dietary needs or preferences.
- The benefits of organ meats are recognized, but there are also risks associated with consuming them raw, and they may not be palatable or ethically acceptable to all individuals.
Actionables
- You can start a food diary to track how different foods affect your health and well-being. Note down everything you eat, along with any symptoms or changes in your condition. Over time, this can help you identify patterns and foods that may be beneficial or detrimental to your health, similar to how Brett monitored his ulcerative colitis triggers.
- Experiment with creating your own fermented dairy products, like kefir or yogurt, using raw milk from local farms. This allows you to explore the historical use of raw dairy for healing, and you can control the quality of the ingredients while supporting local agriculture.
- Develop a habit of practicing daily stress-reduction techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or gentle yoga. By consistently incorporating these practices into your routine, you may help mitigate the impact of stress on autoimmune symptoms, as stress management was crucial for Brett and Harry.
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Personal health journeys and autoimmune disease
Personal experiences often shine a light on the profound impact diet and lifestyle can have on managing autoimmune diseases. Brett and Harry, two individuals who faced severe health challenges, have shared their stories of struggle and recovery through dietary and lifestyle changes.
Brett's journey with ulcerative colitis and the impact of diet and lifestyle
Diagnosed with ulcerative colitis during his senior year of college, Brett faced a series of challenges. He initially experienced severe symptoms, such as frequent bathroom visits with blood in his stool, ultimately losing 20 pounds and being rushed to the emergency room. Ulcerative colitis, characterized by the body's immune system creating inflammation that metastasizes on the colon, was causing significant distress in his life.
Prescribed a regimen of oral steroids, [restricted term], [restricted term], and the biologic drug [restricted term], which cost $60,000 per infusion every six to eight weeks, Brett’s initial treatments were costly and exhaustive. His doctor attributed his condition mainly to genetics and downplayed the role of diet and lifestyle.
Nevertheless, Brett started observing improvements when he focused on cooking his meals and involved himself in endurance races. These changes spurred him to explore the impact of diet more rigorously. A pivotal turning point was listening to a podcast in 2019 that endorsed an animal-based diet for curing autoimmune diseases. Brett decided to alter his diet and, by 2021, he had no inflammation and considered himself medically cured, feeling healthier and no longer dependent on drugs.
Brett's recovery, as he puts it, began when he decided to venture towards the very things doctors cautioned against, and he strongly believes that if it had not been for his initiative, he might still be reliant on medication. Now, he maintains that adherence to his defined health blueprint is paramount to keeping the symptoms of ulcerative colitis at bay, as deviating could potentially trigger a relapse.
Harry's journey with acne and gut issues, and the shift to a paleo diet
Harry’s health journey began in childhood, battling severe ear infections treated with strong antibiotics. In seventh and eighth grade, acne became a persistent issue. Despite dermatological treatments and an extreme course of [restricted term] during high school, which required monthly blood work to monitor his kidney func ...
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Personal health journeys and autoimmune disease
Additional Materials
Counterarguments
- While Brett and Harry's experiences suggest that diet and lifestyle changes can have a positive impact on health, it's important to note that individual responses to such changes can vary greatly, and what works for one person may not work for another.
- The stories of Brett and Harry may not be representative of all individuals with autoimmune diseases, and their experiences should not be generalized without considering the full spectrum of scientific evidence and individual variability in disease progression and treatment response.
- The cost and exhaustion associated with Brett's initial treatments are indeed significant, but it's also important to recognize that these treatments are evidence-based and have been rigorously tested for safety and efficacy in large populations, which is not necessarily the case for diet-based interventions.
- Brett's belief in the necessity of strict adherence to his health blueprint may not acknowledge the potential for flexibility in managing chronic conditions and the psychological impact of such rigidity on quality of life.
- The improvement in health conditions following dietary changes, as reported by Brett and Harry, does not establish a causal relationship, and other factors such as natural disease progression, placebo effects, or concurrent lifestyle changes could also play a role.
- The positive outcomes from an animal-based or paleo diet reported by Brett, Harry, and Mari Llewellyn may not take ...
Actionables
- You can track your dietary intake and symptoms in a personalized health journal to identify patterns and triggers. Start by logging everything you eat, how you feel afterward, and any symptoms you experience. Over time, this data can reveal which foods may be contributing to health issues, allowing you to make informed adjustments to your diet.
- Experiment with meal prepping to gain control over ingredients and portion sizes. Dedicate a day to prepare a variety of dishes that align with a whole-foods-based diet, such as paleo or animal-based, depending on your preference. This ensures you have healthy meals on hand, reducing the temptation to eat processed foods.
- Engage in a l ...
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Animal-based diets and their benefits
Brett and Harry credit single-ingredient, animal-based diets with significant improvements in their autoimmune conditions.
The healing power of a carnivore or animal-based diet for autoimmune conditions
Brett Ender and Harry Gray have experienced dramatic improvements in their health by incorporating diets centered on animal products. Brett focuses predominantly on protein-rich foods and consumes nearly two pounds of red meat daily, without negative effects on his LDL cholesterol. Interestingly, he notes that some people prioritize a high HDL and low triglycerides over concerns of elevated LDL cholesterol.
Mari Llewellyn observes that an animal-based diet can function effectively as an elimination diet, helping to identify foods that don't trigger flare-ups, especially for inflammatory conditions like autoimmune diseases. Brett uses this approach to re-introduce foods one at a time to identify which foods his body tolerates. He has experimented with adding more fruits and vegetables but maintains a core animal-based regimen for managing his ulcerative colitis.
Harry notes the historical use of raw dairy by naturopaths for treating chronic diseases, articulating that nutrients in raw dairy help the body heal itself. Brett concurs based on his experience. While he experiences discomfort with too much raw milk, Brett finds raw cream beneficial due to its lower lactose content.
Both Mari and Brett discuss consuming clean foods and observing less body odor, connecting diet quality directly to bodily functions. Brett also remarks on a relationship between stress, cortisol levels, and body odor.
The importance of mindset and belief in one's ability to heal
Brett emphasizes that a crucial component in his journey to health has been the belief in his ability to heal; he regards this as an act of faith. He experienced a turning point when he realized he might not have to dep ...
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Animal-based diets and their benefits
Additional Materials
Counterarguments
- While Brett and Harry have had positive experiences, animal-based diets may not be suitable for everyone, and individual responses to such diets can vary widely.
- Elimination diets can be beneficial but should be conducted under medical supervision to ensure nutritional adequacy and to avoid unnecessary restrictions.
- The consumption of raw dairy carries a risk of foodborne illnesses due to pathogens that can be present in unpasteurized milk products.
- The link between diet and body odor is not well-established in scientific literature, and other factors such as genetics and personal hygiene play significant roles.
- Stress and cortisol levels do have a relationship with body odor, but diet is just one of many factors that can influence stress and hormone levels.
- The belief in one's ability to heal can be a powerful psychological tool, but it should not replace evidence-based medical treatments for serious conditions.
- Personal anecdotes of health improvements are valuable but cannot replace randomized controlled ...
Actionables
- You can track your health changes by starting a food and symptom diary when experimenting with an animal-based diet. Note down what you eat, including portion sizes and how you feel afterward, both physically and mentally. This can help you pinpoint which foods might be causing issues and observe any improvements in your health conditions.
- Experiment with incorporating short-term fasting into your routine to potentially enhance autophagy. Start with a manageable fasting window, like 12 hours overnight, and gradually increase it as you feel comfortable. Always listen to your body's signals and consult with a healthcare provider before starting any fasting regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions.
- Develop a personal ...
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Sourcing high-quality, regenerative animal products
Experts Brett and Harry underscore the significance of choosing high-quality, regenerative animal products from local, sustainable farms while comparing food quality standards and practices between the United States and Europe.
The benefits of building relationships with local farmers and ranchers
Brett and Harry stress the importance of creating connections with local providers, a practice encouraged by the pandemic. Harry Gray emphasizes sourcing food from local farmers, such as grass-fed and grass-finished beef from providers like Jake's Steaks in Missouri and Holy Cow Beef in Texas. He articulates the advantages of ordering directly from ranchers, including the ability to request specific cuts, like liver or bones for bone broth.
On their podcast, Brett Ender spotlights sustainable Southern agribusinesses, such as White Oak Pastures in Georgia, run by Will Harris. Ender mentions how Harris employs a substantial portion of the local population and fulfills the community's food needs in a town with limited grocery store access. Harris's regenerative agriculture philosophy is notable for its emphasis on replication rather than scalability—urging young ranchers to model similar practices within their localities.
Brett and Harry also express admiration for the teachings of those living off the land during their road trip to explore regenerative farms. They note the food system's reliance on the unique wisdom of these individuals, underlying the value of local, sustainable food production in an ever-industrializing world.
They recognize platforms like eatwild.com as invaluable for locating nearby regenerative sources of meat, raw milk, and eggs. Brett discusses the wholesomeness and nutritional efficiency of single-ingredient, "true god food" produced by local ranchers, an approach in sync with natural human metabolism.
Brett recounts his visit to Rome Ranch in Texas, highlighting their respectful bison processing methods and mentioning Taylor Collins' reverence in the cycle of raising and nourishing from animals.
The differences in food standards and quality between the US and Europe
European food standards are often viewed as superior, according to Harry Gray, citing less reliance on chemical additives and a ...
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Sourcing high-quality, regenerative animal products
Additional Materials
Counterarguments
- The emphasis on local sourcing may not be feasible for all consumers due to geographic, economic, or seasonal limitations, which can restrict access to regenerative, local farms.
- While building relationships with local farmers is beneficial, it may not be scalable to meet the demands of a growing global population.
- Regenerative agriculture practices, while environmentally beneficial, may not produce enough yield to be considered a complete solution to food security issues.
- The teachings of individuals living off the land, though valuable, may not always be applicable or practical in different contexts or for modern agricultural needs.
- Platforms like eatwild.com, while useful, may not represent all available or affordable sources of regenerative products, potentially excluding some producers and consumers.
- The concept of "true god food" may not be inclusive of diverse dietary needs, cultural food practices, or personal preferences.
- The comparison of European and US food standards may oversimplify the complexities of each region's agricultural policies and consumer preferences.
- Skepticism toward GMOs may ...
Actionables
- You can start a food journal to track the sources and quality of the animal products you consume, noting how you feel after meals to better understand the impact of sustainable versus conventional products on your well-being. By doing this, you'll become more aware of the differences in quality and can make more informed decisions about your purchases.
- Create a "farm-share" group with friends or neighbors to purchase whole animals or large quantities of meat from local, sustainable farms, which can make it more affordable and ensure a market for farmers practicing regenerative agriculture. This collective approach can also foster a sense of community and shared commitment to supporting ethical farming practices.
- Experiment w ...
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The role of stress and mindset in health
Brett and Harry discuss the impacts of stress and dietary balance on health, particularly focusing on autoimmune conditions and the importance of a resilient mindset.
The connection between stress and autoimmune flare-ups
Brett and Harry emphasize the strong correlation between stress and the exacerbation of their autoimmune symptoms, underscoring the need to manage stress for optimal health.
Brett details the intense stress he experienced as an athlete and the pressure of competitive baseball, which caused him physical illness before playing. He also speaks about a challenging period during an internship in New York City where a daily four-hour commute and demanding work exacerbated his stress levels. These stresses, Brett notes, contributed to the worsening of his symptoms and led up to his ulcerative colitis diagnosis.
Furthermore, Brett Ender shares that although he adopted the carnivore diet, mini flare-ups occurred when his stress levels rose due to lack of sleep and travel. This underscores the powerful role that stress plays in his autoimmune condition, as he noticed a pattern of getting sick in conjunction with heightened stress.
The importance of finding balance between strict dietary protocols and enjoying life
The guests discuss the need to find a balance between following a strict, healthy diet and allowing for occasional indulgences, as this can support both physical and mental well-being.
Harry Gray suggests that being overly restrictive or stressed about adhering st ...
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The role of stress and mindset in health
Additional Materials
Counterarguments
- While Brett and Harry emphasize the correlation between stress and autoimmune flare-ups, it's important to note that correlation does not necessarily imply causation, and other factors may also play significant roles in the development and exacerbation of autoimmune conditions.
- The individual experiences of Brett and Harry with stress and diet may not be universally applicable, as autoimmune diseases are complex and can be influenced by a wide range of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.
- The idea that occasional indulgences can support mental well-being might not hold true for everyone, especially for those with specific dietary restrictions or those for whom certain foods can trigger severe health consequences.
- The concept of balance in diet is subjective and can vary greatly from person to person; what is balanced for one individual may be harmful or insufficient for another.
- The guests' endorsement of an animal-based or carnivore diet for managing autoimmune issues may not align with the broader consensus in nutritional science, which often emphasizes the benefits of a varied diet including plant-based food ...
Actionables
- You can track your stress triggers and autoimmune responses in a personalized journal to identify patterns and manage your health. Start by noting daily stress levels, sleep quality, diet, and any symptoms you experience. Over time, you'll be able to pinpoint which activities or events tend to coincide with flare-ups, allowing you to adjust your lifestyle accordingly.
- Develop a "flexible dieting" approach by creating a list of single-ingredient foods that you enjoy and are easy to prepare. This list serves as your go-to for daily meals, ensuring you maintain a routine. Then, designate one meal a week where you allow yourself to indulge in a favorite treat or meal outside of your strict dietary protocol, helping you balance physical health with mental satisfaction.
- Integrate a sho ...
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Practical tips for an animal-based lifestyle
Maintaining an animal-based diet can be challenging, especially when on the go. Brett Ender and Harry Gray share their strategies and experiences for adhering to this lifestyle, providing practical tips for others.
Recommended on-the-go snack options for an animal-based diet
Brett and Harry discuss their favorite portable, high-quality animal-based snacks that make it easier to maintain an animal-based diet while on the move.
- Harry Gray recommends the Carnivore Bar, a pemmican bar with a long shelf life, perfect for bulk purchases, containing simple ingredients.
- Brett Ender suggests trying ribeye products that are dehydrated with sea salt.
- They discuss Farmer Bills, a brand offering a South African beef jerky (biltong), favored by Brett for its moist and juicy texture.
- Harry mentions a tasty meat stick that, for him, is almost better than steak.
- Harry also talks about a bar made with a blend of Buffalo meat and beef, which he appreciates for its excellent taste and spice blend despite being a bit fatty.
- Mari Llewellyn brings up Maui Nui venison, while Brett endorses their beef sticks as exceptionally good. He hasn't tried their bone broth but is aware it's protein-rich.
- Brett also mentions the beef protein powder product from Noble Origins, useful for on-the-go nutrition.
The benefits and challenges of incorporating organ meats into the diet
The hosts dive into the dietary inclusion of organ meats, discussing both the nutritional benefits and the practical considerations.
- Harry acknowledges the nutrition of organ meats, especially liver, filled with vitamin B, and notes that only small amounts are needed to gain health benefits.
- Mari recalls the experience of eating liver raw, encouraged by Liver King, revealing a more unconventional approach.
- Brett and Mari discuss their experiments with raw organ meats, such as liver, testicle, and bone marrow, each with varying textures and flavors.
- Brett enjoys raw liver with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and smoked sea salt, proposing this as an appetizing way to ...
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Clarifications
- A pemmican bar is a portable snack made from a mixture of dried meat, fat, and sometimes dried berries. It is a calorie-dense food historically used by indigenous peoples in North America and later adopted by European explorers for its energy benefits. The bar is a convenient way to consume pemmican on-the-go, providing sustenance and nutrition in a compact form. The Carnivore Bar mentioned in the text is a modern take on this traditional food, offering a convenient and high-quality option for those following an animal-based diet.
- Biltong is a type of dried, cured meat originating from Southern African countries like South Africa. It is similar to beef jerky but may differ in ingredients, taste, and production methods. Various meats like beef or game meats can be used to make biltong, which is typically spiced and air-dried. The name "biltong" comes from the Afrikaans words for "buttock" and "strip" or "tongue."
- Liver King, also known as Brian Johnson, is an American fitness influencer who promotes an "ancestral lifestyle" emphasizing the consumption of raw unprocessed organs, particularly liver. He has faced criticism for advocating potentially risky dietary practices.
- Bone marrow is a nutrient-rich tissue found inside bones, often consumed as food. It has been historically valued for its nutritional benefits and is a common ingredient in various cuisines worldwide. Consuming bone marrow is a practice that dates back centuries and is known for its rich flavor and potential health benefits. It can be enjoyed in various forms, such as roasted bone marrow served as a delicacy in many culinary traditions.
- Noble Origins beef protein powder is a product derived from beef that has been processed into a powdered form. This type of protein powder offers a convenient way to incorporate high-quality ...
Counterarguments
- The Carnivore Bar, while convenient, may not be suitable for everyone due to its high-fat content and the potential for preservatives or additives in processed foods.
- Dehydrated ribeye products are an innovative snack idea, but they may be expensive and less accessible to people on a budget or those living in areas without specialty stores.
- While biltong is a tasty and portable snack, it is often high in sodium, which could be a concern for individuals with blood pressure issues or those monitoring their salt intake.
- Meat sticks, even if tasty, are processed meats that could contain additives, and their consumption has been linked by some studies to increased health risks when consumed in large quantities.
- The bar made with a blend of Buffalo meat and beef might be high in saturated fats, which some health guidelines suggest limiting.
- Beef protein powder is a processed food and might not have the same nutritional profile as whole foods, potentially lacking in certain vitamins, minerals, and other compounds found in natural meat.
- The nutritional benefits of organ meats are well-documented, but their taste and texture can be off-putting to some, potentially limiting their appeal and consumption.
- Eating liver raw, as suggested by Mari, carries a risk of bacterial infection or exposure to parasites and may not be advisable for everyone, especially those with compromised immune systems.
- Freezing liver into cubes or consuming it as pills might make it more palatable for some, but it could also lead to a loss of some nutrients or alter the liver's beneficial properties.
- Cooking organ meats, as preferred by Greg, is a more traditional method that can make them safer and more ...
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