Robb Wolf - The Paleo Solution Podcast - Paleo diet, nutrition, fitness, and health

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It's time for Episode 443, Q&A #36! Submit your own questions for the podcast at: https://robbwolf.com/contact/submit-a-question-for-the-podcast/ Individual question videos are linked in each question title, but if you want to see the complete video for this podcast, be sure to check out our YouTube channel. Show Notes: 1. Carb Ups/Cycling For Women? [2:53] Shelly says:: Hi! I am new to your page and it seems like you would be a very knowledgeable and kind person to ask. I'm sure you get a ton of questions, so I'll make it short. I've been successful with keto in the past but now that I'm back on it, cannot lose. I've been told my body is used to it and to give it time. My question is about carbing up as I've heard it's necessary for women because of hormones, etc. Carbing up is more complicated for me, but if needed to be healthy I could do it. What are your thoughts on women needed higher carbs at times? Thanks in advance! Shelly 2. Right Diet For Better Body Composition? [7:38] Jack says: I just watched your video on body composition from fasting. You touched on the component of heavy workload in modern athletic people and how their diet should reflect that. I am athletic fit. I train 5-6 days out of the week. Lifting weights, boxing, BJJ/wrestling, and am currently training for a half marathon. I do all this and still can't get my body comp where I'd like it. I eat relatively low carb but have upped them recently for the HM training. Before the summer I did 20% deficit and IMF for 5 or so months and got myself into around the 10-11% body fat range. Then I went off on vacation and have been eating around maintenance since. Point is I still can't get my body composition how I want it. I have abs but fat around my mid section and on the sides. What am I doing wrong? Male 6ft 185. 3. Junk Food = Vision Loss? [11:08] Levi says: Hey Robb & Nicki, Recently, a story has been circulating about a teen losing his vision from a "junk food" diet–namely, he was eating a predominately carbohydrate diet, full of chips, fries, bread, and cold cuts. Since hearing this, I have been curious: is this actually possible to lose vision (other suffer other ailments) from a junk food laden diet? What happens if someone goes on an-almost all carb diet? I would love your input. Here is the article I am referencing: https://www.webmd.com/parenting/news/20190903/teens-fussy-junk-food-diet-leaves-him-blind#1 4. Keto and Histamine Intolerance? [21:01] Christie says: Hi Robb and Nikki! Hoping you can help me. I am eating a dairy free, nut free, ketogenic diet (for leaky gut and inflammation purposes) I track macros utilizing the Ketogains method. I am experiencing what I believe to be a pretty intense histamine intolerance and have been for the past year and a half. I can't figure out what to eat! Keto foods seem to be predominantly high in histamine. I love Keto. I feel incredible when I eat this way. I am already taking DAO and Quercitin. I don't drink alcohol at the moment nor do I consume fermented foods. Can you please shed some light on how someone with a histamine intolerance can navigate their way through keto? I am at a loss and feeling pretty discouraged. Thank you to you both for all the important work you do and your continuous accessibility. 5. Home Gym Setup? [26:50] Bill says: Hi Robb, I'm finally ready to take the plunge and invest in some equipment for a home gym. I cleared some clutter in the garage so I've got a bit of space...not a ton, but enough I think for a few choice items. My question is what are your must haves for home gym equipment, that ideally doesn't take a ton of space? Where you can find us: Submit questions for the podcast: https://robbwolf.com/contact/submit-a-question-for-the-podcast/ Transcript: Download a copy of the transcript here (PDF)

We're back with Episode 441, Q&A #34! Submit your own questions for the podcast at: https://robbwolf.com/contact/submit-a-question-for-the-podcast/ Individual question videos are linked in each question title, but if you want to see the complete video for this podcast, be sure to check out our YouTube channel. Show Notes: 1. Are Low Calories OK In Keto? [2:41] Lee Anne says: Hi Robb, A question maybe for a podcast. We have all heard the stories of people eating very low fat and low calorie diets to lose weight (think Biggest Loser). They later gain the weight back and can no longer eat as much as they used to and maintain as their metabolism is messed up. I am wondering if there is any science behind a low calorie (800-1000) per day hurting your metabolism? My thinking is if you are getting enough nutrients between food and supplements within the 800 calories - plus you body is "eating" your fat stores - would there not be any negative effects? Would love to hear you thoughts! I was not able to find anything relating to this on the web. I have always tried to stick to a small calorie deficit (eating around 1600-1800 per day). And while successful, lower calories would probably speed up weight loss. I have lost about 60lbs following your plan and still have another 100 to go. Thanks and love everything you do! Thanks for changing my life! Lee Anne Hesbacher Keto Masterclass student 2. Weighted Blankets? [11:28] Steven says: Hey Robb, I've been hearing a lot about weighted blankets lately in relation to calming anxiety and improving quality of sleep. Do you have any experience with these? Any idea if they would be a good sleep hygiene hack for someone who just wants to optimize sleep? Love the podcast! -Steven Click here to check out the Chilipads I mention in this answer. GAME CHANGER for sleep. 3. Keto and Bowel Movements? [13:26] Amanda says: Hi! My question today is on keto and bowel movements. I've been keto for over five months (thanks to the Keto Masterclass) and paleo for almost 7 years. I love the philosophy of how do you look, feel and perform and have seen improvements in all those categories since first becoming paleo and then keto. My question is on bowel movements while on keto; what is normal and what is a red flag? As you have stressed, supplementation with electrolytes is key and I was taking magnesium a little too much; 1 LMNT during the day and Natural Calm before bed. Bowel movements were overly loose and that's never fun. I've been taking Natural Calm for years and it was a part of my night time routine before starting keto. The over supplementation of magnesium was an unintended consequence. After watching the magnesium I've become more solid but feel bowel movements are less frequent overall. Digestion is slow moving and I feel pressure in my lower abdomen. Not pain, not bloating or anything like that; just some pressure. The pressure will be there till I eat and things are pushed through. Is this normal? Am I eating too large of meals? Are there electrolytes I could be missing? I typically have a large breakfast, a medium lunch and a small dinner. I sometimes fast dinner; it's just depends on my schedule. Between the satiating nature of keto and the breakfast/lunch, I rarely feel I need anything in the evenings. Thank-you for all you do. I hope all are settling into your new home and I look forward to future podcasts! 4. City vs Suburbs vs Small Town vs Country? [18:12] Jason says: Hi Nicki & Robb, Since you're in the middle of moving, I've got a question about where I should live. In my last gig, I needed to live in city for work. A suburban house, but with good access to transit and an easy bike ride to work. I've recently switched to working remotely, so I've got a lot more flexibility and wondering if I might benefit from a different way of life. What are your thoughts on living situations & surrounding built environments and their impacts on health and happiness? For reference, we're a mid-30s married couple with no kids (but trying) and a dog. Mostly homebodies, but we have friends, family, and a great crossfit box in the city. Lots of options for living in small towns, acreages, hobby farms, near the lake, all within an hour drive of the city. I've been a follower for many years and your work has helped me in so many different ways, so thank you! Jason 5. Your Move to Texas? [26:13] Kirk says: Robb & Nicky, Welcome to Texas. I moved here 35 years ago and haven't regretted it. The New Braunfels area is fantastic being in between Austin and San Antonio. So many great attractions whether it's outdoor recreation, live music, or educational opportunities for your children. No income tax is great as well, however property taxes might be higher than what you are accustomed to. I know it isn't a health or nutrition question, but could you talk about your decision to move to Texas and what you hope to accomplish here? Best regards, Kirk Robb's poop update during Question 5 [35:24 - 38:34] Where you can find us: Submit questions for the podcast: https://robbwolf.com/contact/submit-a-question-for-the-podcast/ Transcript: Download a copy of the transcript here (PDF)

We're back with more answers to your questions. It's Episode 439, Q&A #32! Submit your own questions for the podcast at: https://robbwolf.com/contact/submit-a-question-for-the-podcast/ Individual question videos are linked in each question title, but if you want to see the complete video for this podcast, be sure to check out our YouTube channel. Show Notes: 1. Collagen Timing/Sauna? [9:44] Jesse says: Hello you two. I've read or heard that when collagen is consumed prior to training the absorption rate is increased considerably. It was also stated that this timing also changes where/how the collagen is used; specifically it goes towards cartilage, tendons, ligaments as opposed to hair, skin, nails. If I'm not off base and you have heard of this phenomenon, then I am curious what happens when collagen is consumed before sauna? Since you're body is being stressed in similar ways to exercise does the process work the same? Thank you both for taking the time to put out quality information, most of which is easy to discern and put into practice for the layman i.e. me. 2. Fecal Transplant? [12:35] John says: Hey Robb, I have a question for you about fecal transplants. I have Asperger's Syndrome, along with a persistent itching all over my body, and particularly on my anus, that I believe is from stuff I'm eating expressing through my skin. Cutting gluten and dairy has helped some, but not eliminated. I haven't been tested for gut bacteria yet, but going to do that next month. If, as I suspect, I turn out to be missing a lot of the usual gut flora, do you think a fecal transplant is a good option? And if so, what's the best way to go about getting one? 3. Partial Knee Replacement Work Out? [17:19] Liz says: Hey Guys! I'm sure you guys have probably answered this by now, I'm almost caught up on the podcasts, but I haven't heard this question asked so I figured I'd give it a go. My boyfriend had part of his knee replaced due to an injury he sustained on his last deployment. He used to be extremely active (crossfit, triathlons, running) But, now, not so much. Basically the doctor told him he needed to avoid any high impact exercises, no running. No squats, clean and jerks, etc. Basically if he was going to be lifting any weight to make sure it doesn't impact his leg. When I go search online for things he could do... it's mostly old people stuff (he is in his mid 20s). So, my question- was his doctor wrong? Greg, do you have athletes with similar issues? Would you allow someone to come into your gym start a training program? Whenever we start to do some sort of a training program he get disheartened by what he can't do, and I just want to give him some hope that he can do some of the things he used to love... what would you suggest? Any resources you can suggest that can get us going? Thanks for all you guys do... which I know you guys don't do much. I love the rants and the side comments. The podcasts get me through my days at work sitting behind a computer screen and encourage me to get my ass up and do stuff. The video we mention: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-k0NTB2DTGs 4. Native Americans and Epigenetics? [23:38] Dan from Nashville says: Hey, I have heard on your podcast, as well as other Ancestral podcasts, the subject of racial epigenetics being brought up, but I never hear it mentioned in a broad aspect, and I was wondering if there was any evidence or even philosophy behind it that you have noticed. I am mostly Native American, with some white mutt thrown in too. I notice that on most reservations, Natives are almost always obese, and I have begun to wonder if being carb sensitive is genetic. You don't have to tell me that alcohol and substance abuse is rampant on reservations, but I sometimes wonder how much is environmental, and how much is based on the fact that most sugars and grains were brought over with white culture. I know that Inuits are always an example of ketogenic diets and health, but I am Creek from the Georgia area of the US, and would assume that eating VLC may not have been part of a people group living in a more fertile area. So I would love your opinion on this, as well as if you touched on other races based on region as well, even if its a mostly philosophical perspective. I also know the stereotype of Kenyans being great distance runners, or Jamaicans being better sprinters, but are there other athletic genetic tendencies for other people groups? Lastly, is the reason we never heard of this because we are too racially sensitive, and everyone fears that they will be equated to Hitler talking Eugenics? Or is there just not enough evidence? 5. Bent Arm vs Straight Arm Strength? [31:16] Harvey says: You've mentioned that an exercise program without straight arm strength results in inferior development of the connective tissue, in comparison to the muscular system. If someone only did straight arm exercises, would their muscular system's development be inferior to their connective tissue's? Where you can find us: Submit questions for the podcast: https://robbwolf.com/contact/submit-a-question-for-the-podcast/ Transcript: Download a copy of the transcript here (PDF)

We're at it again with Episode 437, Q&A #30! Submit your own questions for the podcast at: https://robbwolf.com/contact/submit-a-question-for-the-podcast/ If you want to see the video for this podcast, be sure to check out our YouTube channel. Show Notes: 1. Fitbit Sleep Tracking [1:35] Jay says: G'Day Robb, love your work. I took a break from your podcast to learn computer programming and am now back because I'm stressed and my desk bound body is broken. Glad to be back and see you've figured out your keto problems when bonking during class. I've signed up to your keto master class so fingers crossed. I have a somewhat basic question about sleep. My Fitbit says I slept 7 hours with 1 hour awake. I don't remember waking and there are up to 30 a night of these tiny 'awake' periods. I do sometimes toss and turn to get into comfortable positions. My partner says I'm asleep within minutes of hitting the pillow. So I think I'm sleeping ok. Should I think about this as 8 hours sleep or 7? I tend to wake up energised when my Fitbit says 6hrs 30 mins + 1 hour awake.... So thinking this is equivalent to standard 7-8 hours per night. When I push for Fitbit to say 8 hours then I'm very lethargic when I wake. But it's probably then like 9 hours which could be 'over sleeping' for me. Anyway, love the work you two are doing. I miss the Q&As with Greg but love the new format. Anyway, fangirling from Australia. My question can probably be answered by Google but I'm sure you'll be able to cut through the interjunks. All the best - Jay 2. Palate Fatigue & Food Burnout [8:11] Maria says: Hi, Robb and Nikki, I was wondering if you can address palate fatigue. For some reason, I tend to be the kind of person that needs to have a lot of something and then don't want it anymore and have to switch. Before, I was into avocados and sardines, all the time, and now it is eggs and bacon. It is almost as if my body is asking for these foods at certain times. Thank you! 3. Protein Toxicity and the Carnivore Diet [12:22] Jesse says: Hey Robb, In WTE you briefly mention (p. 27) that humans cannot consume more than 35% of their calories from protein before suffering from protein toxicity. The carnivore diet has recently gotten some publicity and seems to have some anecdotal success for folks with stubborn autoimmunity issues. Do you think following a carnivorous diet carries a high risk of suffering from protein toxicity? And would we be able to look for evidence of protein toxicity in kidney function testing? Best, Jesse 4. Waking Up From Hunger While In Ketosis [17:55] Justin says: Dear Robb, I'm a huge fan of the pod and your work. For the past two months, I've been following a keto eating plan (I weigh all food and track macros - I'm usually hitting 40g net carbs, 90-100g protein, and somewhere between 235g-270g fat, for a total of roughly 3,000-3,500 calories per day). I'm a 30 y/o male, 5'9. I usually eat 3-4 meals/day with no snacks. I currently weigh 156lb and am about 16% body fat (I did a BodPod when I was a few pounds lighter and was at 14.5%). In terms of exercise, I usually go to the gym 3x/week and do some combination of squats, deadlifts, press, and bench press. As an example of where I'm currently at with strength, I do 4 sets of 5 repetitions (2 min rest periods) 205 pounds on squats. My question is this: when I try to cut calories down by 300-500 (I'd like to get to 12% body fat), I wake up in the middle of the night hungry. I feel like I keep hearing on various podcasts and books that I read that in a state of keto, hunger should be significantly blunted and this shouldn't really be an issue. But I feel like if I don't go to sleep pretty full, I wake up in the middle of the night. I know sleep is critically important, so this seems like a problem. If I eat enough to sleep through the night, I can maintain the same weight but really struggle to lose weight. I've done self-experiments to make sure I'm not waking up due to stress, noise, etc., and have isolated that my sleep is almost completely correlated with my hunger levels. I wanted to ask for your guidance because I imagine other people might struggle with a similar issue - I know many people who do well with hunger during the day, but not so well at night. Some things I've wondered about is if I'm overtraining or if there's some sort of other physiological issue I need to attend to. Maybe I'm not understanding keto properly, but I feel like with my macro breakdown I should be able to comfortably go 12-16 hours without eating? Or, is the ability to go prolonged periods without food less about eating and more about individual differences? Thanks for all of the amazing work that you do. Justin 5. Fasting For Skinny Dudes [23:50] Brett says: Hi. Robb and Nicki... Fasting for overweight or normal weight people has been well covered. Is there any benefit to underweight guys fasting in an effort to add mass? I'm 6'3" and 165lbs, 37 years old. I can eat whatever I want in whatever quantities I want and my weight never changes. I would like to be heavier. I've tried weight programs and I tone up ok but it's rare to add more than 5lbs. The minute I stop the program I'm instantly back to 165. Everything else you always talk about like diet, sleep, stress is already dialed in Where you can find us: Submit questions for the podcast: https://robbwolf.com/contact/submit-a-question-for-the-podcast/ Transcript: Download a copy of the transcript here (PDF)

We're back with more of the Q&A you crave! Episode 435, Q&A #28 Submit your own questions for the podcast at: https://robbwolf.com/contact/submit-a-question-for-the-podcast/ If you want to see the video for this podcast, be sure to check out our YouTube channel. Show Notes: 1. Overeating On Keto [2:08] Steve says: Hi Rob, I don't want to take too much of your time. But going Keto for me has found me doing exactly what I feared I could do. I have been Paleo for five or six years and so has my wife. We have no kids at home so grains and junky carbs are not and issue or even a temptation. I am in the middle of doing the keto masterclass, which I am savouring because I have been making some mistakes. I am 50 years old and work out regularly doing either mixed kettlebell workouts or if I do weight and resistance training at the moment I like to do whole body workouts 3 X a week and can mix in some cardio in between. I have kept fit most of my life, my goal is as I age to stay lean and keep mobile. Pretty simple goal. We live in Perth in Western Australia so we have great weather and lots of sun. I work as a gardener in a private school, a job I love doing as I'm outside and moving all day, not as hard as say some sort of construction worker but that can happen on a given day just not every day. Coming from eating paleo the transition for me has been pretty easy. As I went low carb and increased the fat I was eating my wife liked the sound of it so she hopped on board. She is doing great and in fact better than me. We aren't really that worried about measuring ketones at this stage, it has been more about getting the diet right. My issue is, I love the food. For some reason it has made me hungrier. Stocking our fridge and cupboards I made sure that we had all we needed and I wanted to see what I liked to eat also. So I have blown it on all sorts of things. I have had days where I ate too much thickened cream, one tub has 800 calories and it is so easy to eat. I have blown it on nut butter and blown it on cheese. I can't believe it. At first it was wrapping my head around the fat content. I think I get it now. But I have put on body fat, which is so annoying. It's not a train wreck but I feel like I am in a rut now and it's hard to get out. I don't want to quit because I can see and have felt the benefits. It's just with the fat content and my physiology there seems to be no room for error. I listen to your podcast and since listening I have gone to the ketogains website and worked out my macros. I was still tracking somewhat but some days I may have blown it by 5 or 6 hundred calories. I have come so close to quitting as for me it seems to have been an easy way to get fat rather the leaner. I'm not sure that you can help and not sure what else that I could tell you. Diet wise I have intermittent fasted for 3 or more years with differing protocols. Doing 16 - 20 hours is pretty comfortable. I workout in the mornings and often don't eat until lunch time or when I get home from work. My diet hasn't changed too much except I have eaten cream, which I am now over. Adding more fat to my meals. Cooking in butter eating nuts and doing other keto style things. Apart from that my diet is still pretty primal. I love veggies. I have for years done a version of Mark Sisson's big ass salad. Which would be my daily staple. Evening veggies could be broccoli with brussel sprouts maybe some Kale and mushrooms. Also we do milk Kefir but I try to keep that to a minimum. If you have any suggestions that would be great. Are there others that have had this sort of issue, going keto has made them fatter? Really enjoy your podcast and thanks for all of the really useful info that you have put out. I have also read your books. Best regards Steve 2. What's Up With Fiber & Kids? [8:58] Rory says: As part of restoring my own gut health, I've used prebiotic fibers in various doses based somewhat on Grace Liu's advice, and I'm curious if and when supplemental fiber would be beneficial for my daughter? Again assuming that she started off at a disadvantage because of the antibiotics, it seems to follow logically that prebiotic fiber would help her gut bacteria develop, and increase her overall health and resilience. Is that actually logical? And are there any cautions? Is there a certain dose that's age-appropriate, or do I just slowly increase until she has digestive upset? Should I mix fibers in order to feed a variety of bacteria, or are there certain fibers that are optimal for a young gut (i.e. what would a cavebaby be most likely to eat chew on for fun?). 3. Tips For Increasing Testosterone [13:07] Mads says: Hey Robb, In a previous Q&A, you talked about how muscle gain/hypertrophy is caused by calorie surplus and progressive overload. You also mentioned that gaining muscle is, without a doubt, easier if you have High testosterone. Calorie surplus and PO is easy, but how do I increase my testosterone? You mentioned that there are a number of different tactics that you can use? My testosterone is not low, but definitely not high either. I'm 27 and my testosterone is 640 ng/dL and my free testosterone is 16.36 4. SHBG Elevated On Keto/Carnivore [19:47] Eoin says: Since switching to keto I've noticed an increase in SHBG levels which brings down my free test. Total test has stayed high normal but was wondering how functional it is with the free portion bound up. DHEA is a bit low too. I feel great all in all but was just wondering what your thoughts are on that 5. Are Chicharrones (pork rinds) a Healthy Snack? [22:47] Isaac says: Hi Rob, Chicarones (pork rinds): are they a healthy snack? I've heard you indirectly mention them on the podcast some time ago, but I wasn't able to infer whether your opinion is favorable or cautionary. I'm an ultra-runner, and during peak training season will spend about 20 hours per week running. In the bad old days I would top off my calories with a gigantic bowl of cold cereal in the evening, or an enormous serving of lentils and rice. But then I got woke, started monitoring my blood sugar, and started looking for low-carb options to fuel. I'm already having two salads each day, huge amounts of veggies, and as much meat as I can stomach. So I'm just looking for some calories to fuel the movement. So are pork rinds okay? I avoid the flavored variety - the bags I buy just say "fried pork skin" on the ingredients list, and I dip them in sour cream. The best part is how easy it is to get an extra 1000 calories. And the flavor. Am I headed towards clogged arteries? Are pork rinds actually healthy in the way that bacon is healthy...? Thanks!! Love the show. -Isaac After submitting my question about whether pork rinds are an acceptable snack, I realized that Robb's answer might be 'we'd need to see your lab work'... So, in case it is relevant (and in case my question is selected for the show), here are some details. (I'd be glad to share the rest of the lab results, if they're relevant.) Thanks! ***** Cholesterol, Total: 249 mg/dL HDL: 71 mg/dL Triglycerides: 71 mg/dL LDL-Cholesterol: 161 mg/dL (calc) Apolipoprotein A1: 186 mg/dL Omega 3 (EPA+DHA) Index: 7.1 % Omega 6 / Omega 3 ratio: 3.7 EPA/Arachidonic Acid Ratio: 0.4 EPA: 3.0 % DHA: 4.1 % Lipoprotein (a): 99 nmol/L Apolipoprotein B: 107 mg/dL Nonesterified Fatty Acids (Free Fatty Acids): 0.12 mmol/L LDL Particle Number: 1149 nmol/L LDL Small: 116 nmol/L LDL Medium: 229 nmol/L HDL Large: 5144 nmol/L LDL Pattern: A LDL Peak Size: 225.5 Angstrom HS CRP: Where you can find us: Submit questions for the podcast: https://robbwolf.com/contact/submit-a-question-for-the-podcast/ Transcript: Download a copy of the transcript here (PDF)

We're back on a roll with Episode 433, Q&A #26! Submit your own questions for the podcast at: https://robbwolf.com/contact/submit-a-question-for-the-podcast/ If you want to see the video for this podcast, be sure to check out our YouTube channel. Show Notes: 1. Enzymes and IBS? [3:32] Ken says: Talk to us about enzymes Robb. I've played with alot of different things over the years to help with IBS issues. For a long time I was devoted to probiotics but I never found any real consistent results with them. I took a stool test a year or so ago and discovered that literally none of the strains of probiotics I had so diligently taken (and paid for) were significantly present. Along the way anti fungals and anti parasitic medication (Dr Rx'd) helped calm the fire down below but it was enzymes that seem to seem to have made the final difference for me. Not only is the fire largely out I've really not had to keep up with taking enzymes like I did with probiotics. To be fair to probiotics they seem to help in the moment but I get the sense you have to take them daily which does not seem to be the case with enzymes. I should mention I know several people that have had the same experience with probiotics and enzymes. My question then is what is the mechanism at work? I get that enzymes help break down foods but why would that help with IBS symptoms and furthermore why would those symptoms be largely gone after only 6 months or so of using them but not taking them daily even? 2. Squat Pooping and Toilet Training [10:42] Terrence says: Hey Robb and Nicki! Loving the new Q&A format! You have done such a great job educating the public on what to put in one end of their bodies that I want to take a moment to talk about how to get the most out of what comes out the other end! I am a first-time dad of a now 16-month-old, so that means we're starting to approach potty training. As we all know, the "natural, paleo way" of pooping is getting into that deep squat and letting fly. It's so obvious to me that this is the way we're meant to poop. I see it every morning: my little girl suddenly stops playing with her toys and drops into that ass-to-grass squat that my jiujitsu hips will never do again. By the time that thousand-yard stare creeps into her eyes, I've already got one hand on my SLS-free baby wipes. Every parent has seen that, and yet every parent in this hemisphere insists on trying to get their kid going from this squat position to sitting on a porcelain platform with his/her feet dangling. The toddler naturally resists with a, "what the hell do you expect me to do from here?" look. Frustration ensues, but poop doesn't. It seems like transitioning our toddlers from diapers to seated toilets is yet another mismatch of nature in our modern civilization. For adults, it's easy to make a homemade platform or buy a Squatty Potty / similar product. But what's the plan for tots? I've considered setting up a kitty litter box in the bathroom. The mother-in-law is almost certainly going to lose her shit (heh heh) but maybe that's the price of being the world's #2 Dad! Would love to hear your Paleo Poop Solution for how we are Wired to Shit. -Terrence 3. Travel Eating Tips? [14:30] Luiza says: Got your masterclass and it was paramount for the achievement of the keto sunset. 8 weeks in, 15 lbs down and I feel amazing! However I am quite a foodie and will be heading to Paris for 10 days in June to vacation with my brother and dad. I will be staying at a hotel and definitely don't wanna miss out on real French croissants or pastries... I also am from Brazil and while I can tell the benefits of keto long term, I would not be able to go visit and skip out of eating fruits, which is most of my diet while I'm down there. so question: Should I still try my best to keep up with calories/macro count while traveling and/or supplement with exogenous ketones (do they even work?) or should I not worry about it until I get back home? Am I gonna feel absolutely awful while getting back on carbs? On that note, maybe I should re-introduce carbs before I even go? Appreciate your guidance on the issue. 4. BJJ + Recurring Staph Infections [18:39] Sam says: Dear Robb + Nicki, Over the last 12 year period, I've made numerous attempts to train BJJ–each attempt ending in a staph infection. My first time was about 12 years ago, where I got a good year of training in. This was punctuated by a pretty bad staph infection that flared back up a few more times shortly after. 8 years later, I went for it again...this time getting a staph infection after one week of training. Most recently, I got 6 months in before getting another. As you can imagine, every doctor I've ever talked to thinks I just need more antibiotics, or that I have some secret colony of staph living in my nose. This approach has obviously not been successful for me. It also fails to address why I only get them while training, and never in the periods in between. While hygiene may have been to blame the first time, I was pretty careful the last two times, even if it wasn't 100% perfect. I had a funky sleep schedule before my most recent occurrence, which I think may have contributed. Some more details for you...I'm 33, in good shape, otherwise healthy, eat well, and sleep well. I've always lifted weights outside of BJJ but nothing crazy in terms of volume. My question for you is: If this was happening to you, where would you start? What would you be looking at? I have considered seeing a functional medicine practitioner as I've wondered if there are some bigger picture immune issues at play. I appreciate any thoughts you have on this– I don't want my BJJ career to be over so soon. Thanks! Notes: https://www.defensesoap.com/ 5. Adult Autism - Should I Go Keto? [23:51] Alex says: Hi Nicki and Robb, I'm 29 and was diagnosed as on the autism spectrum just two years ago. This would have been considered as asperger's in the past. I've been primarily paleo (ice cream is really good) for the better part of six years, but after running my DNA through Found My Fitness, I'm wanting to address my dietary choices from a more personalized approach, including finding the most optimal choices to address some of the occasional stressors I feel associated with being on the spectrum - anxiety, depression, and general cognitive/mood disregulation. The most researched dietary intervention seems to be a gluten free, dairy free diet, with a few studies looking into keto. However, each study I've seen is only looking at kids as the subjects and typically with more severe symptoms than what I experience. Keto seems to be a promising approach, but is there any reason why this would be different for an adult? I tried keto for about a month a year ago but immediately found my cognitive performance drop. While I know my macro amounts were appropriate (used ketogains calculator), I know now that I didn't incorporate the electrolyte component. Could this account for my initial struggles with it? Is there anything else someone on the spectrum should consider when attempting keto? Supplements, macro ratios, etc.? I'll include more details about me below, but thank you for your time in reading question and all of your work. Alex 29 years old 6' 4'', 240 lbs CrossFit 3-4x per week Sleep 6-7 hours a night (we have a 1 year old that thinks the day begins at 3:30am) Polymorphisms of concern from FoundMyFitness: MTHFR (which seems to be common in those on the spectrum), FTO (multiple SNPs), APEO3/4 (multiple SNPs) Live in Minnesota where sun exposure is only frequent enough where your skin doesn't freeze Where you can find us: Submit questions for the podcast: https://robbwolf.com/contact/submit-a-question-for-the-podcast/ Transcript: Download a copy of the transcript here (PDF)

It's time for Episode 431, Q&A #24. You've got the questions, we've got the answers! Submit your own questions for the podcast at: https://robbwolf.com/contact/submit-a-question-for-the-podcast/ If you want to see the video for this podcast, be sure to check out our YouTube channel. Show Notes: 1. Ancestral Case For Salt Supplementation? [0:53] Dan says: You've recently been talking a lot about salt and electrolyte supplementation and I like to look at things in an ancestral context. Did pre-agricultural peoples supplement with salt somehow? I do know that the Hopi Indians in northern Arizona had a ceremonial "Salt Trail" into the Grand Canyon and I assume that they were able to retrieve salt from geologic deposits, but the amount of salt that feels optimal for me seems like it would be hard to attain in prehistoric times in many parts of the world. Are there other examples of this besides the Hopi? 2. Resistant Starch On Keto? [11:48] Bethany says: Hi there! I'm about 2 and a half weeks in to a ketogenic diet (following the Keto Masterclass) and feeling pretty good. I've been trying to figure out how to add in some resistant starch for overall gut health without pushing carb levels too high. I think I would try tapioca starch first - I live in Asia and that's what's most readily available. According to nutrition facts online, a 1 oz. serving of tapioca starch has 6 grams of carbs. Would this number contribute at all to my overall carb count for the day, or does this factor out because of the fact that most of it is resistant to digestion? Hope my question makes sense. Thanks for your time! 3. Optimal Fructosamine Range? [16:39] Steven says: Hi Robb, I've heard you recommend checking fructosamine to help triangulate glycation and see what's happening with blood sugar, but I can't seem to find any references for an optimal fructosamine range. I recently did some blood work and had a fasting glucose of 80 (mg/dL), A1c of 5.6, and fructosamine of 250 (umol/L). I have been experimenting with a glucometer recently and my average blood glucose based on dozens of readings during carb testing is in the upper 90's, so I am thinking my A1c looks artificially high due to red blood cells living longer. Curious what you think of this, and what I can take away from the fructosamine value of 250. For context: I am a 29-year-old male, 160 lbs, between 10-12% bodyfat and have been eating a mostly low-carb paleo diet for the past year, recently gravitating closer to carnivore. I appreciate you and Nicki and all the work that you do! Best, Steven 4. Finding Time For Writing a Book? [22:34] Thuy says: Hi Robb: I'm a big fan. Thanks for your life's work that filters out the vast ocean of information out there for a smarter living. I'm so glad you are doing what you do reminding me to sit back to look at the big picture of everything in life. In your last few podcasts, you mentioned that you are again working on publishing more books. Congrats and I can't wait! I've been trying to write my first book. It has been such a slow process. It has been 4 months and I'm able to get in about 6000 words or so. Holy cow it is such like a text book but I've got to start from somewhere! The book has a mix of East meets West medicines for those undergoing cancer treatments. Needless to say, the topic is not easy and there is so much development out there every week that it is hard to keep up. I'm a full-time oncology pharmacist. My husband also has a full-time job and soon will go back to school while working for the next 2 years. We have four kids ages 5, 7, 9 and 10 so their activities are endless Mondays through Sundays on top of their normal school work, church, and of course we have to add Vietnamese school in there because all others are not enough! I started out with trying to get a few words in during my lunch hour, but it seems that it takes me a good 15-20 min to get into a good writing mode but then I have to go back to work before I get much further into the book. If my kids have a long 1-2 hour activity, I can get more done then while waiting for them but I then I feel guilty for not paying attention to them. I also exercise daily, either before work or during lunch, whichever works out for the day. The past 2 months, I've been exercising during lunch rather than working on my book because I feel my brain needs a break from thinking all day long. Then I find myself slacking off for whatever excuse because, honestly, I'm just exhausted mentally and physically. So that's my background story. My question simply put, how do you do it? I feel the need to write this book because I know it will help so many people going through cancer treatments particularly clarifying the effectiveness/safety on herbal products and the big hot marijuana, so it's almost like a calling; leaving a mark on this earth before I die. There is a war inside me between fulfilling this calling vs taking care of my health (recently discovered I have Hashimoto's - oh boy that's for another day) vs being a good mother, wife, sister (brother has Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis; also another story for another day), daughter. At first I set out a goal to finish this book in 2 years but maybe not until 5 years. Worst yet, it will never be finished. I'm starting to doubt myself that I can climb this Mount Everest of mine. Any suggestions will be great. Thanks for reading this. -Thuy ("twee") PS: Hi Nicki! My husband used to work at Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf decades ago and I don't think they roast their coffee beans either! :D Cute story. Notes: https://www.nytimes.com/2018/08/20/well/family/let-kids-play.html https://robbwolf.com/2018/09/25/episode-411-tim-grahl-publishing-a-book/ 5. Advice For A New Clinician? [38:38] Matthew says: Hello Robb and Nicki, I've recently become a newly minted nurse practitioner and am starting a job in an endocrinology clinic in a few weeks where I will be managing mostly type II diabetes and thyroid disorders. First, thank you for your work. 8 years ago you inspired my interest in fats, carbs, exercise, and all things hormonal and it is very unlikely I would have landed here without your influence. My mom read the "Paleo Solution" after I mentioned your name and effectively reversed her type II diabetes through diet, exercise, and a sprinkle of metformin (which she has since discontinued). The clinic I'll be working in serves a population with low health and nutrition literacy that typically follow the standard american diet. As an example, one of my colleagues expressed that she would consider it a win if she could teach some of her patients that mountain dew is not actually considered juice (this is an extreme example, but you get the picture). I've been working as a bedside nurse for 6 years so I am well aware of the shortcomings of conventional medicine and the reluctance of patients to change long held behaviors. One of the reasons I've been drawn to diabetes care is that diabetes 2 is so amenable to diet and lifestyle change that ideally the pharmacological approach need only play a supplemental and transient role. My question is this: What would you consider effective strategy for fostering health literacy and behavior change in a population such as this? Also: What would you consider the lowest hanging fruit in terms of behavioral change to positively affect outcomes in diabetes? Thank you for your time, your work, and your example Where you can find us: Submit questions for the podcast: https://robbwolf.com/contact/submit-a-question-for-the-podcast/ Transcript: Download a copy of the transcript here (PDF)

And now back with more listener question goodness, it's Episode 429, Q&A #22! Submit your own questions for the podcast at: https://robbwolf.com/contact/submit-a-question-for-the-podcast/ If you want to see the video for this podcast, be sure to check out our YouTube channel. Show Notes: 1. In & Out of Ketosis...Harmful? [2:10] Pete says: Robb, I've been on and off a keto diet for the past five years or so and when in Ketosis feel fantastic. I train muay thai and on days that I train I tend to up my carb intake as I just feel better throughout training, similar to you with jiu jitsu. On Sundays however I do tend to go off the rails a bit and find myself on Monday down around the 0.2 mmol/L level and then by Tuesday night/Wednesday morning back up any where between 1.0-2.4 mmol/L where I stay for the rest of the week. I have in the past gone several months at a time on a 30-50g carb per day diet on multiple occasions, haven't done so the past year and half or so. I've been hearing a lot lately that this quick fluctuation between low carb to moderate/high carb intake can be very bad for you. Can you help shed some light on this, am I doing long term damage to my body by fluctuating? Thanks, Pete 2. Eating Below My BMR [10:48] Chris says: Hey guys, Over the past 7 months, I've had great success following the Keto Masterclass. As far as weight-loss goes, I've lost about 42 lbs, and lowered my BF% from about 28% to about 19%. For the first 12 weeks, I ate at a 20% deficit, without a break. I weighed and measured all my food. I made sure I had my electrolytes dialed in, eating lots of potassium and magnesium rich foods, supplementing Na+ as well as Mg+ too. During that time, I was lifting 4x per week as well as a couple (15-20 min) interval workouts per week. Other than that, I was doing some light walking and playing with my kids. Towards the end of that initial run, I started to get kind of bitchy (I'm a 45-year old male), and never really experienced the stable energy, or deep, solid sleep that a lot of people mention - two things I was really hoping for. Recently, I have been alternating 4-week cuts, followed with 2-week "full diet breaks" (a'la Lyle McDonald) at maintenance. During those, carb sources have been clean, paleo foods. Coming off of each of these, I feel better and maintained a stable weight throughout. I was normally back in ketosis 48-72 hours after switching my carb and fat macros back up, and both times (so far) it has restarted weight loss. Still not great sleep, but I attribute that to having young kids (2 & 6). After a recent DEXA scan, I was recalculating my macros with the Ketogains calculator (I'm 162# and 19% BF), and it dawned on me that the deficit it was recommending (-15%) was put me BELOW my Basal Metabolic Rate by about 105 calories, per day. For reference, I used the "sedentary" activity level and don't add back in workout calories. So, to my question(s)... Understanding that the calculator is based off the Katch-McCardle formula, basically giving a statistical norm, but BMR is the calories we need to maintain vital physiological functions, what are your thoughts on recommended deficits putting one below their BMR and what are the longer-term implications of extended diets doing so? Would it be better to just eat AT BMR on rest days and add back in some (all? a portion?) workout calories (protein & fat) on training days, while still being below TDEE? It seems to me that BMR should be an absolute floor when it comes to caloric intake - I'm wondering if the aggressive deficits created some diet fatigue and hormonal disruption for me. Love the podcast and anything the Wolf Pack puts out. Thanks for everything! 3. Do Calories Matter? [19:58] Zach says: Hi Robb- Long time follower and really appreciate the work you're doing. I wish I had known about Keto and Paleo when I was younger; I feel my athletic performance could have propelled me to the next level. Either way, I'm happy to have it in my life today as it keeps me thin and healthy. Your Keto Masterclass has been instrumental in guiding me through my Keto/Paleo journey. Thank you! I've been very interested in the low carb diet for 10+ years now and it started with Gary Taubes. Gary Taubes is famous for saying that calories don't count and in my anecdotal experience, they don't. I must stress that since it works for me, I'm completely happy with the results. However, when trying to speak intelligently about Keto and low carb, I'm trying to bridge a gap from Gary to Chris Kresser's podcast with Joe Rogan last week. On Joe Rogan Chris said that you *must* run a caloric deficit to lose weight. Now I am really confused! I'm an engineer and I've taken several thermodynamics courses, so from an energy balance equation I understand that the human body cannot defy thermodynamic principles. But obviously our metabolism is much more complex than an energy in- energy out black box. Furthermore, energy in-energy out does not feel right for a number of reasons such as, for instance, energy expended drinking cold water is not in this equation (that is your body warming the cold water up), energy that is never consumed but rather part of a "defecation event", etc. I have eaten what I perceived to be a major energy surplus on a ketogenic diet and have still lost weight. My caveat there is that I wasn't weighing foods, so I cannot really know. My apologies if you've already answered this question, but I could not find it on your blog or searching your website. I'm hoping you can point me to a study, a white paper, a text or some reliable information that will answer the question of who's right- Gary Taubes or Chris Kresser. Thanks Robb, you're a legend. Zach Kimball 4. Pre and Post-Surgery Nutrition [31:00] Andrea says: Hi kids and kitties and Squatchys! Sooooo, it's been a little while since I have been devouring each and every single podcast episode and I apologize. My own business focus has put me more into the writing podcast genre recently (but I see Tim Grahl on your interviewee list!?). :-) So, my question: have you guys laid out a protocol for extreme nutrient buildup for before and after a scheduled surgery? This would be for someone who is not really paleo: still eats gluten and mostly just avoids sugar and junky foods. So they are not yet on the "rawr sardines nom nom!" bandwagon, sadly. But if they have a willingness to make some changes to ensure they are in a better place to prepare to recover from their surgery (jaw replacement, if it matters), what would you 'prescribe' to them? I'm family, so if this guidance comes from an outside authority that could make the critical difference in their enthusiasm. P.S. Love to all you guys. You're doing the 'chop the wood, carry the water' and have been for SO LONG I bow in respect. Hope to see you again soon at some rando paleo conference. Andrea in Burbank 5. CrossFit vs 5 by 5 (ketogains) [38:12] Matt says: Robb and Nikki thanks for all that you do. You, your books and podcasts have changed my life. I have done two days a week of CrossFit for just over 2 years and in spite of the amount of rest I get I still end up with knee, shoulder, wrist and elbow injuries and pain. I have recently decided to pause my CrossFit subscription and have replaced it with the three days a week 5 by 5 routine recommended by the ketogains guys. I did your keto masterclass and I'm at 7.5% body fat and try to keep my macros on point with the ketogains recommendations. What do you think about just doing the 5x5 home workout alone? I do like the group element of the CrossFit class but at my age (52) I can't seem to go for long without injury or constant pain. I feel like the 5x5 program at home is more manageable as I can control the velocity/intensity without so much emotional effort. What are your thoughts regarding this path? Where you can find us: Submit questions for the podcast: https://robbwolf.com/contact/submit-a-question-for-the-podcast/ Transcript: Download a copy of the transcript here (PDF)

We're back with Episode 427, Q&A #20 and more of your best questions! Submit your own questions for the podcast at: https://robbwolf.com/contact/submit-a-question-for-the-podcast/ If you want to see the video for this podcast, be sure to check out our YouTube channel. Show Notes: 1. Fasting: Minimum Hours? [2:08] Raysha says: Hi Robb, Really appreciate all the work you are doing. You are a huge inspiration to me and hopefully one day, I'll be able to make as big a difference as you have in people's lives. Just a quick question, what's the minimum number of hours someone should fast if they just want to maintain good health? I typically fast about 12 hours and I have heard you mention that its a good fasting duration in one of your podcasts. Is this enough if I just want good metabolic health? Thank you 2. Alcohol While Paleo? [4:30] Jay says: I've noticed that some nutrition experts detour from their mission of nutritional health seemingly to promote the ingestion of certain alcoholic beverages. In your opinion, why is this done since according to the WHO alcohol is a known carcinogen sometimes leading to esophageal, stomach, breast cancer, etc. Apparently there is "no safe amount" to avoid its' effects so why is it promoted? 3. Former Smokers: Can Paleo Reverse Damage? [10:02] Filipe says: Hey Robb Thank you for your wonderful contributions to our collective (and personal) health. Your teachings left a lasting, highly beneficial imprint on by health and on by wellbeing. A part of that was quitting smoking. As a former smoker, what can I do now to minimize the risks of cancer? Since there are millions of former smokers in the U.S. alone, your answers will certainly appeal to a large audience. Thank you so much. All the best 4. Gymnastics Training For Jiu Jitsu? [13:17] Duey says: Hey Robb, I'm excited that my gym finally got gymnastics rings. Do you have any free resources for beginners you would recommend? My primary sport is jiu jitsu. Straight arm strength in particular is tough to come by. Trying to find progressions for those. Also, I'm curious as to what you like to do for neck and wrist conditioning. Mine are always creaky from grappling. Best Duey 5. Oil Roasted Almonds [16:36] Kathleen says: Hi Robb, First I wanted to say thank you for all the valuable info you provide. You are one of the few voices I fully trust because you always follow the evidence and are willing to change your mindset if the evidence leads you somewhere new. With that, I have heard you say on the podcast that you eat a lot of blue diamond smokehouse almonds (I love those) and it got me wondering. I have tended to avoid them in favor of the blue diamond almonds that are roasted without any added oil, because the smokehouse say that they may be roasted in canola or other vegetable oil. I was curious your thoughts on this. I tend to totally avoid vegetable/canola oil whenever possible, but I assume the amount of oil you are actually ingesting with these almonds would be low. What are your thoughts? If everything is dialed in and you're feeling good, do you not worry about the minimal amount you'd be getting from this? Or have you seen evidence that it takes more than this little bit of oil that the almonds would be roasted with to really create a problem? Thanks in advance for your advice! Kathleen Submit questions for the podcast: https://robbwolf.com/contact/submit-a-question-for-the-podcast/ Transcript: Download a copy of the transcript here (PDF)

We're at it again with Episode 425, Q&A #18! If you want to see the video for this podcast, be sure to check out our YouTube channel. Show Notes: 1. [1:47] How To Fuel For Overtraining Patrick says: Hi Robb, I have a question for you about how to best balance the three main things in my life; eating, training and working. I've gotten sick about a million times in 2018, and had some challenges in maintaining a work - training balance. Every time that I feel healthy and ready to kill it, I immediately begin to overtrain - and I know this is a sentiment that many share, especially when the over training symptoms take a little while to build up and express themselves. My susceptibility to over training is mainly brought on by my work's early start times. I am 30 years old and a Builder and wake at 5:30, have moderately intense exercise over 8-9 hours during the day, an hour commute home and then training (BJJ, gii and no gi. Sometimes I try to fit in some striking) from 6-7:30 or to 8:30 if I feel I can get away with it, however eating late and needing to sleep around 9:30-10pm is really difficult for me. Metabolism is working too much at night and it affects my body temperature and HRV. I try to delay breakfast until 9am (to achieve 12 hours window) with either a bulletproof or just straight black coffee after wakeup . I don't have the option of training during the day unfortunately. Some of the over training symptoms I've had have been IBS type, adrenal stress and then the associated depressive mood when in a slump. Most of this gets fixed up by implementing a 'less is more approach' to training. Also experience some afternoon slumps. What would be a good strategy to fuel all this activity, fuelling for both energy load during the day and training at night, plus recovery after training. Also things to note I'm really low body fat, really high percentage muscle, metabolism chews up all my food quick as and can get hypoglycaemic sometimes. Thanks from Australia!! Patrick and Georgia! 2. [8:04] Physical Sustainability of BJJ Kent says: I'm wondering what the long term implications are of a regular BJJ practice. It's always something I've wanted to explore, but it seems like many folks who have practiced consistently for years have developed joint issues, tears, etc. Is this simply inevitable? What are your thoughts on the long term sustainability? I'm not talking about someone who is wanting to seriously compete, but someone like yourself who enjoys the physical nature of the practice. My apologies in advance if you've already answered this question and I missed it! Thanks for all that you do. 3. [13:12] Vitamin D Lights??? Alli says: Hi Robb and Nicki... I've been a follower of yours for years and I considered myself Paleo BUT I would pick and choose. This past May I decided to buy in 100% and I purchased your Keto Masterclass which changed my life. I've lost 40 pounds but more important is that for the first time in my life I am in control of my food. Life changing. And now that I'm on a roll I'm trying to implement more positive life changing choices. My question relates to Vitamin D synthesis in the cold Connecticut fall and winter. I'm trying to get outside as much as possible but exposing skin just isn't feasible. I know that sunlight is preferable to supplementing BUT how about those happy lights? Do they work? Will a $40 one work or do I need the expensive one? Could you recommend one? If they don't work- what dosage of Vit D should I aim for from a supplement? Thank you for doing what you do. Alli 4. [19:37] Supplements from China Gregor says: I often buy online some supplements bulk - at least 1-2 lbs. This way they are way cheaper. I use magnesium citrate, garlic powder, turmeric powder, collagen any some other. What worries me is that many of then have China as country of origin and we know how devastated environment is in parts of China. Shall I be worried by Chinese origin? Can magnesium citrate from China be contaminated with something? Shall I choose more expensive stuff, but with other origin (Americas, Europe)? Thank you in advance for looking into that. 5. [21:10] Protein & Thermal Effect Drew says: Does powdered protein (specifically whey, if that makes a difference) have the same thermal/metabolic effect as eating steak/chicken/pork/eggs/etc? I have listen to every single podcast. Love it all! Thanks for doing everything you do! Where you can find us: YouTube Facebook Submit questions: https://robbwolf.com/contact/submit-a-question-for-the-podcast/

We're at it with another Q&A podcast, Episode 423! If you want to see the video for this podcast, be sure to check out our YouTube channel. Show Notes 1. [1:31] Aced the 7 day challenge like your wife! So why am I doing this??? Erica says: Hello, I LOVED your book Wired to Eat. I'm a 31 year old female. 6ft, at my goal of 160ish lb, 20% body fat. Ive never been heavy, don't have diabetes in my family. I do have a history of disordered eating - counting/restricting calories and then binge eating until a year ago when I found low carb. I've been on thyroid meds for a few months now, possibly because of the calorie restriction. I've had high cholesterol all my life and now it's even higher since starting Keto 2 months ago (total from 274 to 336! HDL ratio went from 3.2 to 4.7! Triglycerides now 106 (non-fasting), havent had my A1C checked for awhile but it was 5.3 long before keto. going to have my LDLp and fructosamine checked soon.) Low carb/intermittent fasting has reallly helped me maintain my weight while avoiding trigger foods. I went full Keto 2 months ago because the hunger control intrigued me. It's gotten MUCH more tolerable, but I still get hunger pangs for breakfast and afternoon snacks daily. But for the first time in my life my very hormonal acne cleared up from keto! Now, I took the test after 2 months keto and aced it! Every day of the challenge my glucose was similar to your wife's, even the day I ate a doughnut! So my question is... why am I doing this whole low carb thing? I guess no pimples and no trigger foods is a good enough reason; but my question is, are bad carbs even that bad in my case? Maybe my insulin response is a different picture, as my weight seems to come back easily with carbs? But it sure makes resisting cravings difficult now that I know my glucose response will be fine if I have that doughnut and I'll go back to my usual mild ketosis within a few hours if I can manage not to eat again soon after. Any tips? Has your wife changed how she eats now that she knows her blood glucose will be fine with most anything she eats? Thank you so much for your response! 2. [10:10] Beer and blood sugar Thom says: Robb and Nicki: Thank you both so much for the work you do to educate the Paleo/Keto community. I have been Paleo for nearly 6 years now and Keto for 2, due to a suggestion given me after having a colectomy and still not feeling good. The results I've experienced are nothing short of miraculous. That has led me to become a huge advocate for the lifestyle and to share it with anyone who will listen. I do heating and air conditioning service, which affords me the opportunity to share it with many people. My question is this: You have mentioned many times that we should do as many N=1 experiments to see what works for us individually. I have been keeping tabs on my blood sugars, blood pressure, O2 and heart rate levels as well as several clinical blood tests (I don't visit the doctor very often, since all they want to do is shove drugs in me every time I go in). Over the years I've been able to hone in on the majority of foods or lifestyles that make me feel good and the ones that make me feel not-so-good. That said, I wanted to pose a question to you. I have done this test over and over and am very shocked by the results. If I have a typical dinner with a salad or veggies of some sort and some meat, then pair that with low carb wine or tequila, lime and soda water (both very low carb drinks), my blood sugars will be somewhere between 130 and 180 two hours later. However, if I have beer (typically dark, because I prefer the porters and stouts) and check my blood sugars two hours later, I'm usually below 100 and sometimes as low as 80 or 78. I have tested these variables over and over throughout this past year (yes, I like my drink) and I get the same results. However, I HAVE noticed that the lighter beers, such as ales or lighter IPA's do not keep my blood sugars quite as low. Do you know of anything that might explain this phenomenon? I have many more questions I would like to ask you, but I'll leave it at this one for now. Again, thank you both for all you have done and are doing to keep this community going. My son keeps telling me that I should start my own blog and podcast to help spread the word about this lifestyle. When he does I always mention that I have no definable credentials, such as yours, so I'm not convinced anyone would even listen to it. So, instead I point him, and many others, to your podcast and website, along with Jimmy's, Chris's and Mark's. You're all very educational and the cornerstones of this community. Keep up the good work. ThomE 3. [15:28] High morning glucose on LCHF diet (95 mg/dl) Gregor says: Hi Robb, I really appreciate what you are doing and I am a great fan of your podcasts (I read transcripts). Anyway, to the point: after I cut off grains, sugar, legumes and so on, my fasting glucose went high. On average it is 95 mg/dl, mostly between 90 and 100 mg/dl. You mentioned this subject in your 385th podcast with Shawn Baker (one of my favorites podcasts on your site), but I didn't feel it was fully addressed and explained. I have a graph for about 15 years of measurements here: https://paleosmak.pl/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/glukoza-paleo-2018.png - around 2010 I turned paleo/lchf. Recently I have measured my fasting insulin level and it was 4,9 µIU/ml. I have also measured my glucose levels for one typical day and it is very stable, between 90 and 109 - here is the graph: https://paleosmak.pl/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/dobowy-profil-glikemii-paleo-smak.png (the orange vertical lines are meals, I eat only twice a day). I know I am no diabetic. I have no health issues except 2-3 mild autoimmune diseases (the symptoms come and go). Is my quite high fasting glucose anything to worry about? I have a friend following quite similar diet and life style and his fasting sugar is around 70-75. Does my 95 mg/dl fasting sugar have negative impact on my health, aging speed and so on? Can I do anything about that? Thanks so much for talking one more time about that. Gregor https://optimisingnutrition.com/2019/04/02/how-much-salt-do-you-need/ https://www.drinklmnt.com/the-science 4. [20:12] paleo approach to skin care Andrea says: Robb, do you have any advice about skin care, such as use of any daily moisturizer or other products? I don't use daily sunscreen because I tend to have low Vitamin D levels, but I use it if I'm going to be outside for an extended period of time. I am approaching 40 and only use a bit of jojoba oil as a moisturizer. I wash my face with bar soap (not the antibacterial kind). I'm not sure if my minimalist approach is the way to go. Maybe your wife has some experience with some products for women? Thanks! Anne marie skin care Feather eagle sky beauty face oil ***Organic Rose Hip Seed oil, Sweet Almond oil, Argan oil sunscreen 5. [25:51] Weight loss and fat tissue toxin-release Jarno says: Hi Robb, Greetings from Finland! I love your work, thank you for everything you do! I really liked your stance on the carnivore diet as you discussed it with Mikhayla Peterson. Let's not become vegan zealots about it. I've been eating 70-80% carnivore for 6 months and feeling mostly great. Mostly because it's not all great. Which brings me to my question. What is your sentiment about the toxin-release from fat tissue during weight loss thingy? Is it real? What the science says at the moment? Have you heard of any connections with joint pain / arthritic pain or nausea with weight loss induced toxin release? I'd love to hear your thoughts about this! Best regards, Jarno Where you can find us: YouTube Facebook Submit questions: https://robbwolf.com/contact/submit-a-question-for-the-podcast/