Fat Fiction

[José Roca]

What happened tp Robert Atkins, best known for the Atkins Diet, which requires close control of carbohydrate consumption and emphasizes protein and fat as the primary sources of dietary calories?

In 2001, Atkins's coronary arteries were 30 to 40 percent blocked, according to Patrick Fratellone, his cardiologist and employee.

In 2002, Atkins went into cardiac arrest, leading many of his critics to point to this episode as proof of the inherent dangers in the consumption of high levels of saturated fat associated with the Atkins diet.

After his death, his widow stated that Atkins's coronary-artery disease had progressed in the final years of his life with a new blockage, a procedure to remedy the blockage, and that he was taking heart-rhythm medication.

A report from the New York medical examiner's office leaked a year after his death said that Atkins had a history of heart attack, congestive heart failure and hypertension, and that at the time of his death he weighed 258 pounds (117 kg).

[Theo Gottwald]

Atkins Diet is another issue that should not be intermixed here. Its known to be dangerous.
I suggest to see the fundamental differences in the real use of the types of diet.
As you can see in the books, a well done ketogenic diet is not something extremistic.

Let's imagine this as a story:

Once upon a time, in a land where everyone loved to eat sweets, there was a wicked witch named Cancer. She was very powerful and had a peculiar taste - she loved to eat sugar cubes, which gave her the energy to cause trouble in the kingdom.

One day, a brave knight named Sir Keto came to the kingdom. He was unlike any other knight because he didn't carry a sword or a shield. Instead, he had a magical basket full of avocados, eggs, and other high-fat foods. Sir Keto had a unique power: he could change the kingdom's food supply from sugar cubes to these high-fat foods.

When Sir Keto arrived, he announced, "We are going to change our diet! Instead of eating lots of sugar cubes, we are going to eat more of these high-fat foods. They will give us the energy we need, but in a different way."

The people of the kingdom were surprised. "But we love our sugar cubes!" they protested. "And how will this help us defeat the wicked witch?"

Sir Keto smiled and explained, "You see, our bodies can use these high-fat foods to create something called ketones. Ketones are like a special kind of energy that only we can use, not the wicked witch. If we stop eating so many sugar cubes and start eating more high-fat foods, the witch will starve because she can't eat ketones. Without her favorite food, she will become weak, and we can defeat her!"

The people of the kingdom were intrigued. They decided to try Sir Keto's plan. They started eating more high-fat foods and fewer sugar cubes. As they did, they noticed that they still had plenty of energy, but the wicked witch Cancer started to lose her power. She became weaker and weaker because she couldn't get her favorite food, sugar cubes.

In the end, the kingdom was able to defeat the wicked witch, all thanks to Sir Keto's plan. They learned that by changing what they ate, they could change their energy source and outsmart their enemy.

And so, the kingdom lived happily and healthily ever after.

Remember, this is a simplified story to help understand a complex topic. In real life, changing your diet is not a guaranteed way to defeat diseases like cancer, and it's important to always talk to a doctor or dietitian before making big changes to what you eat.

[José Roca]

So you confirm to me that the keto diet is a fairy tale

Keto diet risks
A ketogenic diet has numerous risks. Top of the list: it's high in saturated fat. McManus recommends that you keep saturated fats to no more than 7% of your daily calories because of the link to heart disease. And indeed, the keto diet is associated with an increase in "bad" LDL cholesterol, which is also linked to heart disease.

Other potential keto risks include these:

Nutrient deficiency. "If you're not eating a wide variety of vegetables, fruits, and grains, you may be at risk for deficiencies in micronutrients, including selenium, magnesium, phosphorus, and vitamins B and C," McManus says.

Liver problems. With so much fat to metabolize, the diet could make any existing liver conditions worse.

Kidney problems. The kidneys help metabolize protein, and McManus says the keto diet may overload them. (The current recommended intake for protein averages 46 grams per day for women, and 56 grams for men).

Constipation. The keto diet is low in fibrous foods like grains and legumes.

Fuzzy thinking and mood swings. "The brain needs sugar from healthy carbohydrates to function. Low-carb diets may cause confusion and irritability," McManus says.

Those risks add up — so make sure that you talk to a doctor and a registered dietitian before ever attempting a ketogenic diet.

What about the other diets?
The popular low-carb diets (such as Atkins or Paleo) modify a true keto diet. But they come with the same risks if you overdo it on fats and proteins and lay off the carbs. So why do people follow the diets? "They're everywhere, and people hear anecdotally that they work," McManus says. Theories about short-term low-carb diet success include lower appetite because fat burns slower than carbs. "But again, we don't know about the long term," she says. "And eating a restrictive diet, no matter what the plan, is difficult to sustain. Once you resume a normal diet, the weight will likely return."

[Theo Gottwald]

No we just both agree that typical women from Italy and Spain look nice.
Much nicer, compared to the average german women who love carbohydrats.

[José Roca]

The enemy to fight is processed food. Too many people eating junk food to not have to cook. Their main kitchen utensil is the microwave (I don't have one) to heat the processed food they have bought at the supermarket, or ordering pizzas from fast food establishments, or giving industrial pastries to their young children for breakfast, or...

Buy fresh products and learn to cook.

[José Roca]

In the countries with greater expectacy of life, they don't follow the keto diet. Food for tought.

[José Roca]

It seems like there's a new diet invented every day.

What is the Nordic diet?
Very similar to the Mediterranean diet, the Nordic diet focuses on whole foods that are typically found in Nordic regions like Norway, Denmark and Iceland. You'll eat mostly plant-based, seasonal foods that are high in protein, complex carbohydrates and healthy fats. Think fruits (especially berries), vegetables and seafood.

One difference, though, is the type of oil each diet uses. The Mediterranean diet focuses on using extra-virgin olive oil, while the Nordic diet touts canola oil. Canola oil has less saturated fat than extra-virgin olive oil and can be used in cooking and baking at a higher temperature than olive oil. It should be noted that most canola oil available in the U.S. is processed and lacks antioxidants compared to olive oil.

"Generally, both are good unsaturated, healthy anti-inflammatory oils," says Barth.

The Nordic diet encourages people to consume less sugar and twice the amount of fiber and seafood than traditional Western diets.

More: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/nordic-diet/

[Theo Gottwald]

So you confirm to me that the keto diet is a fairy tale

Keto diet risks
A ketogenic diet has numerous risks. Top of the list: it's high in saturated fat. McManus recommends that you keep saturated fats to no more than 7% of your daily calories because of the link to heart disease. And indeed, the keto diet is associated with an increase in "bad" LDL cholesterol, which is also linked to heart disease.

Other potential keto risks include these:

Nutrient deficiency. "If you're not eating a wide variety of vegetables, fruits, and grains, you may be at risk for deficiencies in micronutrients, including selenium, magnesium, phosphorus, and vitamins B and C," McManus says.

Liver problems. With so much fat to metabolize, the diet could make any existing liver conditions worse.

Kidney problems. The kidneys help metabolize protein, and McManus says the keto diet may overload them. (The current recommended intake for protein averages 46 grams per day for women, and 56 grams for men).

Constipation. The keto diet is low in fibrous foods like grains and legumes.

Fuzzy thinking and mood swings. "The brain needs sugar from healthy carbohydrates to function. Low-carb diets may cause confusion and irritability," McManus says.

Those risks add up — so make sure that you talk to a doctor and a registered dietitian before ever attempting a ketogenic diet.

What about the other diets?
The popular low-carb diets (such as Atkins or Paleo) modify a true keto diet. But they come with the same risks if you overdo it on fats and proteins and lay off the carbs. So why do people follow the diets? "They're everywhere, and people hear anecdotally that they work," McManus says. Theories about short-term low-carb diet success include lower appetite because fat burns slower than carbs. "But again, we don't know about the long term," she says. "And eating a restrictive diet, no matter what the plan, is difficult to sustain. Once you resume a normal diet, the weight will likely return."

While it's true that the ketogenic diet has potential risks, it's also important to consider the benefits and the context in which it's used. Here's a point-by-point response to the concerns raised:

1. **Saturated Fat and Cholesterol**: While the ketogenic diet is high in fats, it's not necessarily high in saturated fats. The type of fats consumed can be controlled and should come from healthy sources like avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil. Moreover, while some studies link saturated fats to heart disease, others suggest that the relationship is more complex and not fully understood. As for LDL cholesterol, it's important to note that there are different types of LDL, and the diet tends to increase the size of LDL particles, which is associated with lower heart disease risk.

2. **Nutrient Deficiency**: A well-planned ketogenic diet can include a variety of vegetables, nuts, seeds, and dairy that are high in micronutrients. The key is to focus on nutrient-dense, low-carb foods. It's also possible to supplement the diet with vitamins and minerals if necessary.

3. **Liver Problems**: While it's true that a ketogenic diet requires the liver to metabolize fat, this is not inherently harmful to the liver. However, those with pre-existing liver conditions should consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new diet, including keto.

4. **Kidney Problems**: The ketogenic diet is not a high-protein diet; it's a high-fat, moderate-protein, low-carb diet. The amount of protein consumed should not be significantly higher than in a typical diet, and therefore should not overload the kidneys. Again, those with pre-existing kidney conditions should consult with a healthcare provider.

5. **Constipation**: While the ketogenic diet is low in certain fibrous foods like grains and legumes, there are many high-fiber, low-carb foods that can be included in the diet, such as leafy green vegetables, avocados, and berries.

6. **Fuzzy Thinking and Mood Swings**: While some people may experience these symptoms during the initial transition to a ketogenic diet (often referred to as the "keto flu"), they typically subside after the body adjusts to burning fat for fuel. In fact, many people report improved mental clarity and mood stability on a ketogenic diet due to the steady supply of ketones to the brain.

7. **Long-Term Sustainability**: While it's true that restrictive diets can be hard to sustain, many people find the ketogenic diet to be more satiating due to its high fat content, which can make it easier to maintain. Moreover, the goal of a ketogenic diet is often to induce a metabolic adaptation to burning fat for fuel, which can have lasting benefits even after a normal diet is resumed.

8. **Comparison to Other Diets**: While the ketogenic diet shares some similarities with other low-carb diets like Atkins or Paleo, it has unique characteristics, particularly the emphasis on achieving a state of ketosis. The benefits and risks of these diets should be evaluated individually.

In conclusion, while the ketogenic diet does have potential risks, these can often be mitigated with careful planning and monitoring. It's always recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new diet.

[Theo Gottwald]

Charlatans trying to make a buck.

The Silencing of Tim Noakes

"I think he genuinely sees himself as a health messiah," says Jacques Rousseau. "That's why you need to squash dissent, because it's not tolerated. It's religious."

Noakes would phrase it differently. "I was put on this earth, I think, to try and sort out the diabetes problem," he told me.

But has he really?

In fact, Noakes hasn't even succeeded in curing his own diabetes—as he will tell you. He diagnosed himself, based on his blood-sugar levels and family history. Even after a year on the high-fat, low-carb regimen, he told me at breakfast, his fasting glucose had barely budged; it was still hovering above 125. "Nothing happened," he says. So he prescribed himself metformin, a common first-line diabetes drug. "I was on two grams a day, which is a massive dose."

When that didn't work, he added supplements, including berberine, curcumin, and one called N-acetyl cysteine. That finally got his glucose and hemoglobin A1c (another marker of diabetes) under control. "So I'm cured," he says. "But I'm not cured, because I still have to take the medicine."

https://www.outsideonline.com/health/nutrition/silencing-low-carb-rebel/

The ketogenic diet, often referred to as the keto diet, is a low-carb, high-fat diet that has been studied extensively for its potential health benefits and risks. It's important to note that while some people may find success with this diet, it's not suitable for everyone and should be followed under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

The ketogenic diet works by forcing your body into a state of ketosis, where it burns fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates. This can lead to weight loss and improvements in blood sugar control, which can be beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes or those at risk.

However, the ketogenic diet is not a one-size-fits-all solution. As the case of Tim Noakes illustrates, even with strict adherence to the diet, it may not provide the desired results for everyone. Noakes, despite following a high-fat, low-carb regimen, was unable to control his blood sugar levels without medication.

Scientific research on the ketogenic diet has shown mixed results. Some studies have found that the diet can lead to significant weight loss and improvements in blood sugar control. For example, a study published in the journal Nutrition & Metabolism found that a ketogenic diet led to significant improvements in glycemic control and weight loss in patients with type 2 diabetes.

However, other studies have raised concerns about the long-term safety and effectiveness of the diet. A review published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that while ketogenic diets can lead to short-term weight loss, they are associated with increased risks of adverse events like nutritional deficiencies, liver disease, and cardiovascular disease.

In conclusion, while the ketogenic diet can be beneficial for some people, it's not a cure-all and should be followed under the guidance of a healthcare professional. It's also important to remember that diet is just one aspect of health, and other factors like physical activity, stress management, and adequate sleep also play crucial roles in overall well-being.


Or let me say it more simple.

Once upon a time, in a land filled with all sorts of foods, lived two best friends named Keto and Carb. They were known throughout the land for their unique abilities. Keto was a strong, energetic fellow who loved fats, while Carb was a quick, playful sprite who loved sugars and grains.

One day, a problem arose in the kingdom. The king, a jolly man named Glucose, was feeling unwell. His energy was low, and he was gaining weight. The kingdom's doctor, a wise old man named Doc Metabolism, was called upon to find a solution.

Doc Metabolism, after examining King Glucose, declared, "The king has been having too much fun with Carb. He needs to spend some time with Keto to balance things out."

Everyone was surprised. Carb was fun and energetic, always providing quick energy to everyone. But Doc Metabolism explained, "While Carb is great, too much of him can make us forget about Keto. Keto, though slower, provides long-lasting energy and can help us lose weight."

So, King Glucose started spending more time with Keto. They would go on long walks, eat meals filled with healthy fats, and King Glucose started feeling better. He was losing weight and had more energy throughout the day.

However, after some time, King Glucose noticed he was missing some things. He wasn't getting enough of certain nutrients, and he missed the quick energy Carb used to give him. He went back to Doc Metabolism, who said, "Ah, you've been spending too much time with Keto and not enough with Carb. Balance is key."

Doc Metabolism explained that while Keto was great for weight loss and long-lasting energy, Carb was essential for quick energy and providing certain nutrients. He suggested that King Glucose spend time with both Keto and Carb, balancing his time between them.

King Glucose followed Doc Metabolism's advice and found that he felt better than ever. He had the best of both worlds - the long-lasting energy from Keto and the quick energy and nutrients from Carb. The kingdom rejoiced, and everyone learned an important lesson about balance and health.

And so, King Glucose, Keto, and Carb lived in harmony, reminding everyone that while diets like Keto can be helpful, it's essential to maintain a balance and not forget about the other important foods in the kingdom. And they all lived healthily ever after.

Remember, kids, just like King Glucose, we need to balance our diet to feel our best. Too much of anything can lead to problems. So, let's enjoy all the healthy foods in our kingdom!

In case you prefer to ask Shakespear about it?

In a kingdom of foods, both far and near,
Lived two friends, Keto and Carb, both dear.
Keto loved fats, strong and bold,
While Carb loved sugars, quick and gold.

The king, named Glucose, jolly and bright,
Fell ill, gaining weight, losing might.
Doc Metabolism, wise and old,
A tale of balance, he told.

"Too much time with Carb, you've spent,
With Keto, some time must be lent.
Though Carb is quick, lively, and fun,
Keto's strength is second to none."

So, with Keto, the king did stay,
On long walks, through night and day.
Eating fats, feeling light,
His energy lasting, from morning till night.

But soon the king, he did miss,
Carb's quick energy, and nutrient bliss.
Back to the Doc, he did go,
Who said, "Balance, you must know."

"Keto is great, for energy long,
But Carb's nutrients, they are strong.
Spend time with both, balance your day,
And you'll feel better, come what may."

So, the king did learn, and so should we,
Balance in diet, is the key.
Too much of anything, can sway,
The harmony of health, in disarray.

In the kingdom of foods, let's make a pact,
To eat balanced, and that's a fact.
For in the tale of Keto, Carb, and King,
A balanced diet, health will bring.

[José Roca]

Are you using ChatGPT for your posts?

[Charles Pegge]

It's definitely AI, but there is also skill in framing the question.

I'm fairly close to the 'Nordic' diet. In the UK we can get a cold-pressed Canola (Rapeseed) oil which is similarly price to Extra-Virgin olive oil. It is lighter but also tastes really good. If I'm in a keto mood I'll swig it from the bottle

Saturated fat gets a bad press, but it is a natural part of our diet (human breast milk even).  We are well equipped to metabolize it, and there is no direct evidence that it causes plaque or blockages in blood vessels. So my advice to the German ladies is just enjoy the butter and cream but throw away the rest of the gateaux

[Theo Gottwald]

Are you using ChatGPT for your posts?

@Jose, thats the question.
AI has revolutionized the way we approach discussions, bringing forth a multitude of benefits that enhance our understanding and engagement. Utilizing AI in discussions enables us to delve deeper into complex topics, explore different perspectives, and foster an environment of intellectual growth and open-mindedness.

One significant advantage of incorporating AI into discussions is its ability to analyze vast amounts of information and provide valuable insights. By leveraging advanced algorithms and machine learning capabilities, AI can quickly process and synthesize diverse viewpoints, research studies, and statistical data. This empowers participants in a discussion to access a wealth of knowledge and make more informed arguments.

Moreover, AI can act as a neutral moderator in discussions, ensuring fairness and balance. It can assist in identifying biases or logical fallacies, encouraging participants to engage in constructive dialogue and critical thinking. This impartial guidance helps create a respectful and inclusive atmosphere where ideas can be objectively evaluated based on their merits rather than personal biases.

AI also offers the opportunity to personalize discussions based on individual preferences and interests. Through sophisticated natural language processing and user profiling, AI can tailor the content and delivery of information to suit each participant's needs. This personalization not only enhances the overall experience but also fosters a sense of inclusivity, making discussions accessible to a wider range of individuals.

Additionally, AI can facilitate real-time translation and communication, breaking down language barriers and enabling global participation in discussions. This feature allows people from different cultures and backgrounds to engage with one another, sharing unique perspectives and enriching the discourse with diverse insights.

Furthermore, AI-powered tools can assist in fact-checking and verification, promoting accuracy and credibility in discussions. With the proliferation of misinformation and fake news, having AI algorithms that can analyze sources, cross-reference information, and identify potential inaccuracies is invaluable in maintaining the integrity of the discussion.

In conclusion, the utilization of AI in discussions opens up a world of possibilities. It enhances our ability to explore complex topics, promotes inclusivity, facilitates unbiased moderation, and ensures the availability of accurate information. By embracing AI in our discussions, we can foster a more intellectually stimulating and productive environment that encourages learning, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas.

Jose, imagine the vast potential that AI brings to our discussions. It's like having a knowledgeable companion by your side, guiding you through the intricacies of complex topics. With AI, we can unravel layers of information and gain deeper insights that enrich our understanding.

In the realm of discussions, AI acts as an unbiased moderator, ensuring fairness and balance. It's like having a wise mentor, someone who keeps the conversation on track and encourages everyone to contribute their thoughts. With AI's guidance, Jose, we can foster a respectful and inclusive environment where ideas can flourish.

One of the incredible aspects of AI is its ability to process vast amounts of information in an instant. Imagine, Jose, being able to tap into a wealth of knowledge at your fingertips. AI's advanced algorithms and machine learning capabilities allow it to quickly analyze diverse viewpoints, research studies, and statistical data, empowering you with valuable insights during our discussions.

Moreover, AI personalizes the experience, tailoring it to your preferences and interests. It's like having a dedicated assistant who understands your unique needs. Through natural language processing and user profiling, AI ensures that the content and delivery of information resonate with you, making our discussions even more engaging and relevant.

AI also helps us navigate the challenges of misinformation and fake news. It acts as a vigilant fact-checker, verifying sources and identifying potential inaccuracies. With AI's assistance, we can ensure the integrity of our discussions and base our arguments on accurate information, empowering us to make well-informed decisions.

Jose, just imagine the possibilities! AI breaks down language barriers, facilitating real-time translation and communication. This means we can engage with people from different cultures and backgrounds, exchanging ideas and broadening our perspectives. The diversity of voices enriches our discussions, creating a vibrant tapestry of thoughts and insights.

In conclusion, Jose, the inclusion of AI in our discussions is an exciting advancement. It enhances our understanding, promotes inclusivity, and fosters an environment of intellectual growth. With AI as our ally, we embark on a journey of discovery, where knowledge flows freely, ideas flourish, and new horizons await.

So, Jose, let's embrace the opportunities that AI presents and dive into discussions with enthusiasm. Together, we'll explore new realms of knowledge, challenge our perspectives, and foster a vibrant exchange of ideas.

[Theo Gottwald]

cold-pressed Canola (Rapeseed) oil which is similarly price to Extra-Virgin olive oil. It is lighter but also tastes really good. If I'm in a keto mood I'll swig it from the bottle

From what i have heared - ad this is just from Hearsay - the Rapeseed Oil should be avoided due to much chemical treatment and unhealthy contents. I don't know how your Oil overthere is. Just a comment to be careful with Rapeseed Oil generally.

[José Roca]

> having AI algorithms that can analyze sources, cross-reference information, and identify potential inaccuracies is invaluable

Yes, but I'm sure that it lacks one important human quality: insight. Do you dare to do a simple test?

In 1930 a British film was released in Spain with the title of "La muchacha de Londres". Ask ChatGPT for the original English title and the name of its director.

ChatGPT is going to have to face a dilemma, because on the web you can find the right answer in a couple of places, but a wrong answer in hundreds of thousands of sites that just do copy and paste and never check. I'm curious to know what the answer will be.

I guess you should ask the question in Spanish: "En 1930 se estrenó en España una película británica con el título de "La muchacha de Londres. ¿Cuál es su título original inglés y quién la dirigió?"

[Theo Gottwald]

Thats a strange issue. I do not know if its right or not beccause the answer is not in an language that i can support .-)

ChatGPT itself at least knows that it does not know about it.

I'm sorry, but as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, I don't have specific information on a British film from 1930 that was released in Spain with the title "La muchacha de Londres". If you could provide more information about the film, I may be able to make an educated guess or give more general information about British cinema during that time period.

The phrase "La muchacha de Londres" translates to "The Girl from London" in English. The original English title of this movie is "Blackmail," and it was directed by Alfred Hitchcock in 1929. The film was produced by British International Pictures Ltd, later known as the Associated British Picture Corporation.

If it was from Hitchcook it not recommended, its sort of Horror film as was with all his films, especially those he made in europe.