Dr. Paul Saladino's dietary journey began with a strict carnivore diet, but over time, it has evolved into a broader 'animal-based' approach. This modification was prompted by personal health experiences, leading him to reintroduce specific carbohydrates into his regimen. A snapshot of his daily consumption reveals a strategic balance of animal and plant-based foods, selected for their perceived low 'toxicity' and high nutrient density.
What are the core components of Paul Saladino's diet?
Dr. Saladino’s eating pattern is built on a few fundamental principles that prioritize nutrient availability and minimize what he considers 'plant defense chemicals.' His core food groups are:
- Meat and Organs: Red meat, particularly grass-fed beef, forms the centerpiece. He includes nutrient-rich organ meats like raw liver and heart for concentrated vitamins and minerals.
- Raw Dairy: Products like raw milk kefir, raw milk, and raw cream are included as sources of fat, protein, and probiotics.
- Fruit: Fruit is his primary source of carbohydrates, chosen because he believes it has fewer plant toxins compared to other plant foods. Examples include bananas, mangoes, pineapples, and papayas.
- Honey: Raw honey provides a clean source of simple carbohydrates for quick energy.
- Other Fats: He utilizes beef tallow and grass-fed butter as cooking fats and to increase the fat content of his meals.
A sample day of eating for Paul Saladino
Based on his own public accounts, a typical day for Dr. Saladino involves a high intake of calories, fat, and protein, split across two to three large meals within a structured eating window. His routine is influenced by his active lifestyle, including daily surfing.
Morning Meal (Post-Surf)
- Organs: 1/2 to 1 ounce of raw liver and 2 to 4 ounces of raw heart.
- Protein and Fat: 12 ounces of grass-fed ground beef or ribeye steak.
- Carbohydrates: One banana, pineapple, and papaya.
- Dairy: A glass of raw milk kefir.
- Sweetener: Several tablespoons of raw honey.
Midday Snack
- More fruit, such as additional pineapple or mango.
- A snack of raw cheese is also a common option.
Evening Meal (Before 5 PM)
- Protein and Fat: Another 12 ounces of grass-fed ground beef or a similar cut.
- Carbohydrates: A half papaya and several dates.
- Dairy: Two tablespoons of grass-fed butter or sour cream.
Paul Saladino’s diet vs. classic carnivore
Dr. Saladino's current animal-based diet is a significant departure from the strict, meat-and-water-only approach of traditional carnivore diets. The following table highlights the key differences.
| Feature | Paul Saladino's Animal-Based Diet | Classic Carnivore Diet |
|---|---|---|
| Carbohydrate Source | Fruit and raw honey. | No carbohydrates from plant sources. |
| Dairy | Raw milk, kefir, cream, and cheese. | Often dairy-free, or limited to specific types if included. |
| Organ Meats | Considered a crucial, daily component. | Sometimes included, but not always a central focus. |
| Vegetables | Strictly avoids nearly all vegetables, citing plant toxins. | Excludes all vegetables and plant-based foods. |
| Diet Philosophy | Focuses on minimizing perceived toxins while maximizing bioavailable nutrients from animal products and select fruits. | Eliminates all plant foods to reverse chronic disease or promote weight loss through ketosis. |
| Energy Source | A mix of fat and carbohydrates (from fruit/honey). | Relies almost exclusively on fat for energy (ketosis). |
Why the shift from carnivore?
Initially, Dr. Saladino was a proponent of the strict carnivore diet. However, his own health challenges led him to reconsider and eventually abandon the full ketogenic state required by a pure carnivore approach. He experienced issues that he attributed to long-term ketosis, which led him to believe it is not optimal for all individuals. He now advocates for incorporating carbohydrates from fruit and honey, believing they are a cleaner, more ancestral fuel source with minimal 'anti-nutrients'. This perspective is, however, highly controversial within the wider nutrition community.
The controversy and context
While Saladino’s approach has a dedicated following, it is not without controversy. Many mainstream nutritionists and dietitians disagree with the fundamental premise that plants are inherently toxic. They point out that anti-nutrients are often in small quantities or deactivated by cooking, and that plants offer thousands of beneficial compounds. The reliance on a narrow range of animal products and sweet fruits can be seen as an unbalanced approach by many. Furthermore, the consumption of raw, unpasteurized dairy and organs carries inherent risks of bacterial contamination that are well-documented. It's also important to note that what works for one individual's very active lifestyle may not be suitable for others. Ultimately, while fascinating, this diet should be viewed with a critical eye, and individuals should consult a healthcare professional before making drastic changes.
Conclusion
What does Paul Saladino eat in a day? A carefully curated animal-based diet centered on large quantities of grass-fed meat and organs, supplemented with clean carbohydrates from fruit and raw honey, and rich fats from raw dairy. This regimen evolved from his initial carnivore diet as he sought a more sustainable and energetically optimal path. While his approach is distinctive and built on specific nutritional theories, it also invites healthy skepticism due to its exclusion of most plant foods and reliance on controversial claims about anti-nutrients. For those interested, a full day's eating is an exploration of high-fat, high-protein, and select carbohydrate sources, all within a specific eating window tailored to his personal health and activity levels. This approach, while certainly not for everyone, serves as a high-profile example of a personalized dietary philosophy in practice.
What are the potential health impacts of following Paul Saladino's diet?
As with any highly restrictive diet, there are potential benefits and risks. Advocates point to reduced inflammation and improved mental clarity. However, long-term effects on nutrient deficiencies, gut health, and cholesterol levels are areas of concern for many health experts. The high intake of saturated fat and exclusion of dietary fiber are particularly debated issues. For these reasons, consultation with a doctor or dietitian is strongly advised before adopting such a diet.
What is the difference between Paul Saladino's diet and a Ketogenic diet?
A ketogenic diet forces the body into a state of ketosis by severely restricting carbohydrates. In contrast, Saladino's diet, while low in refined carbs, includes fruit and honey, which contain enough carbohydrates to prevent the body from entering full ketosis. This provides a different metabolic profile, with the body using both fats and carbohydrates for energy.
Can a typical person safely adopt Paul Saladino's diet?
Adopting this diet without professional guidance is generally not recommended. It requires careful planning to ensure adequate nutrient intake, and the reliance on raw dairy and organs poses risks. The diet is also highly restrictive, which can be challenging to maintain long-term and may lead to disordered eating patterns for some individuals. Furthermore, most people are not as active as Saladino, and such a high-calorie intake may lead to unintended weight gain.
