#2: Low-Carb, High-Quality Fat — Fuel Your Body Like Our Ancestors Did
Humans today are virtually identical to our ancestors from 2.6 million years ago. Before convenience stores and processed foods, our diet was simple:
Meat, vegetables, fruit, dairy, and fish.
The modern food system and dietary guidelines have failed us—promoting high carb intake that’s directly linked to the diabetes and obesity epidemics.
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In 1994, the American Diabetes Association recommended 60-70% of calories from carbs.
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Since then, diabetes and obesity rates skyrocketed.
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Today, 29 million Americans live with diabetes, many undiagnosed.
Excess blood sugar damages your gut and feeds harmful bacteria, increasing inflammation and compromising your immune system — impacting even your brain health.
Fat, Not Carbs, Is Our Natural Fuel
The Framingham Heart Study and other research reveal:
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People with higher natural cholesterol levels tend to perform better cognitively.
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Cholesterol is vital for brain function—supporting neurons, cellular membranes, antioxidants, vitamin D, and hormones like testosterone and estrogen.
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Alzheimer’s patients show significantly reduced brain fats, including cholesterol and fatty acids.
A 2012 Harvard study compared diets with varying carb and fat ratios and found:
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A low-carb, high-fat diet burns more calories and improves insulin sensitivity best.
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Low-fat diets may increase vulnerability to weight gain.
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High-fat, low-carb diets rich in fiber support gut health and weight maintenance.
What’s the Best Diet for Gut & Brain Health?
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Balanced blood sugar to protect the gut
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Rich in fiber from fruits and vegetables to produce beneficial short-chain fatty acids
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Gluten-free to reduce gut irritation
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Naturally anti-inflammatory
Want to fuel your body and brain the right way? Stay tuned for our next article: What Should I Eat?
Sources:
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Perlmutter, D. (2017). Brain Maker: The Power of Gut Microbes to Heal and Protect Your Brain - For Life. Yellow Kite.
