Category: Arctic

According to genomic studies, the Greenlandic Inuit possess specific genetic adaptations that aid in processing a high-fat diet, which is a key factor in how they stay warm in the harsh Arctic climate. This traditional diet, centered on marine mammals, is a masterclass in human adaptation.

The Arctic environment, with its long, dark winters and limited agriculture, has shaped unique diets rich in protein and fat from marine and land mammals. Understanding what should the Arctic diet include is crucial for both indigenous communities relying on traditional foods and for outsiders seeking to adapt to the region's harsh conditions.

Humans burn more calories in cold weather through both shivering and non-shivering thermogenesis to maintain a stable core body temperature. So, do you need to eat more in the Arctic to stay healthy? The answer depends heavily on your activity level and acclimatization.

Despite common misconceptions, the traditional Inuit diet is not entirely free of carbohydrates; sources indicate that some groups derived approximately 10% of their energy from carbohydrates, primarily through animal glycogen and foraged plants. This counters the popular notion that the Inuit consumed a pure zero-carb diet and raises the question: what carbs does Inuit eat?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that untreated water can cause illness. The question 'Do you drink forever in the Arctic Sea with water?' often arises from a common misunderstanding confusing a health supplement with a deadly survival scenario, as drinking seawater is fatal.