From Strict Carnivore to Animal-Based
Dr. Paul Saladino, a once-staunch advocate for the strict carnivore diet, underwent a significant and public dietary evolution. His initial endorsement of a meat-only lifestyle was well-documented through his content and book, The Carnivore Code. However, the human body is a complex system, and for Saladino, the long-term reality of this restrictive diet led to unexpected complications, ultimately causing him to re-evaluate his approach.
The Health Issues That Prompted the Change
After approximately two years on a strict meat, organ, and fat-only diet, Saladino began experiencing a variety of negative health effects. These symptoms forced him to acknowledge that a purely ketogenic state might not be optimal for everyone in the long run. His transparency about these struggles resonated with many followers who had experienced similar issues.
Key health problems Saladino cited included:
- Sleep Disturbances: He reported having trouble with his sleep patterns.
- Heart Palpitations: An uncomfortable and concerning symptom he linked to his diet.
- Muscle Cramps: A sign of potential electrolyte imbalance, which can be common in very low-carb diets.
- Low Testosterone: A measurable decline in hormone levels was a major factor in his decision to change.
When Did Paul Saladino Start Eating Fruit?
By August 2020, Saladino had made the official pivot, introducing carbohydrates back into his diet primarily through fruit and honey. This change was prompted by his body's response to the ailments experienced on the strict carnivore plan. He found that the addition of these plant-based carbohydrates, which he viewed as less toxic than other plant foods, helped resolve his sleep, electrolyte, and hormone issues.
The Philosophy Behind the New 'Animal-Based' Diet
Saladino's new dietary approach, which he calls the "animal-based diet," differs from strict carnivore in its selective inclusion of plant foods. While still prioritizing meat and organs, the new framework incorporates certain plant-based items for their perceived benefits and lack of 'anti-nutrients'. He views fruit as a superior carbohydrate source because it is the part of the plant that 'wants to be eaten' and has fewer defensive chemicals compared to roots, stems, or seeds. This perspective positions his new diet as a more nuanced evolution rather than a complete reversal.
Strict Carnivore vs. Animal-Based Diet: A Comparison
| Feature | Strict Carnivore | Animal-Based Diet |
|---|---|---|
| Core Foods | Meat, organs, animal fat | Meat, organs, animal fat, fruit, honey, raw dairy |
| Carbohydrates | Absent, relies on fat for energy (ketosis) | Present, primarily from fruit and honey |
| Plant Foods | Strictly excluded | Selectively included (e.g., fruit) |
| Motivating Principle | Elimination of all 'plant toxins' | Mitigation of potential downsides of long-term ketosis |
| Health Focus | Gut health, inflammation reduction, mental clarity | Hormone balance, electrolyte regulation, and energy for performance |
What Kind of Fruit Does Saladino Eat?
In his animal-based framework, Saladino generally favors fruit that is ripe and less likely to contain high levels of 'plant toxins' or defense chemicals. His diet frequently includes tropical fruits like pineapple, mangos, and papaya, which he consumes to provide a source of clean carbohydrates.
The Backlash and Ongoing Debate
Saladino's dietary shift did not happen without controversy within the carnivore community. Many followers who had embraced his original teachings felt confused or betrayed by his change of heart. The ongoing debate highlights the fluid nature of nutritional science and the challenges that can arise from relying solely on anecdotal evidence or individual experimentation. Saladino's journey serves as a powerful reminder for individuals to listen to their own bodies and avoid dogmatic dietary rules.
Conclusion
Dr. Paul Saladino began incorporating fruit and honey into his diet in August 2020 after experiencing adverse health effects from adhering to a strict, long-term carnivore diet. His transition to an "animal-based" eating plan was a pragmatic move to address issues with sleep, hormones, and electrolytes, rather than a philosophical reversal. While controversial among purists, his evolution demonstrates the importance of individualizing diet and remaining open to change based on real-world health outcomes. For those interested in the broader scientific context of early human diets and our dietary adaptations, resources from authoritative sources can provide further insight on how our nutritional needs have evolved, just as Saladino's own diet did.
