Integrating Michael Pollan's Insights with Lower Carb and Ketogenic Diets
Michael Pollan is a widely acclaimed author and journalist who writes about food and its impact on health. His insights include the importance of whole, unprocessed foods, the benefits of traditional diets, the risks associated with modern industrial agriculture and processed foods, and the need to cultivate a healthy relationship with food. Pollan emphasizes the role of a balanced and diverse diet that includes plenty of vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, while also advocating for reducing or eliminating processed foods and added sugars. He encourages people to actively engage in their food choices and to become aware of where their food comes from and how it is produced.
As an advocate of the physical and social benefits of whole, unprocessed foods, I find Michael Pollan's perspective on nutrition particularly compelling. He says “Eat food, mostly plants, and not too much.” I say, “Eat the things God made for food” which is consistent with Pollan’s emphasis on choosing foods that are as close to their natural state as possible. He encourages fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and animal products in our diets. For normal weight people without metabolic diseases like diabetes, I agree with his advice. At the same time, I believe that the benefits of what I call the “Lower Carb Whole Food” approach and also the “Well Formulated Ketogenic Diet” cannot be overlooked. Research shows that these approaches can be dramatically effective for weight loss, managing diabetes, reducing inflammation, decreasing cardiac risk factors… and a host of other concerns.
So how can we integrate Pollan's philosophy on food with the principles of lower carb and ketogenic diets?
One way to do this is to focus on choosing whole, unprocessed foods that are naturally low in carbohydrates—such as leafy greens, non-starchy vegetables, nuts and seeds, animal products (dairy, butter, meat, fish, and poultry), and healthy non seed-oil fats. By emphasizing these foods, we can create a well-formulated very low carb ketogenic diet that aligns with Pollan's principles of whole food eating.
It is important to note, in our day of the religious-philosophical fad of veganism, that an emphasis on whole, unprocessed foods does not mean a completely plant-based diet. Animal products are a valuable source of nutrients and are normally a substantial part of a healthy, whole foods-based diet, even one that emphasizes high nutrition vegetables.
Incorporating Pollan's philosophy of whole food eating with the principles of lower carb and ketogenic diets, we can create a dietary practice that is both effective for managing various health conditions and aligned with the known benefits of whole, unprocessed food.
Are you eating a low carb diet and want to incorporate Pollan’s insights? Start here:
Eat whole, unprocessed foods: such as fruits (berries are best), vegetables, low carb fiber-rich foods, nuts and seeds, animal products (meat, full fat dairy, butter, fish, and poultry), and healthy plant fats like olive oil and avocado.
Bulk your plate with those vegetables that are naturally low in carbohydrates and rich in vital nutrients.
Reduce or eliminate processed foods: Foods that come in packages or have lengthy ingredient lists are often high in added sugars (fructose!), artificial sweeteners, unhealthy fats, and other additives that can be detrimental to health.
Experiment with lower carb and ketogenic recipes: There are countless resources online for finding delicious and satisfying recipes that align with the principles of lower carb and ketogenic diets. Try incorporating some of these into your meal planning.
Don't forget about the spiritual aspects of eating: Remember that food and drink are not just fuel for our bodies, but also a context in which we serve the Lord and others. Whether in fasting or feasting, all is to be done for His glory.
Get help: there are many free online resources to educate yourself about these topics. Our subscription patients get great, professional level, apps and personalized planning and coaching to reach their health goals.
As always—I’m here to help if you have any questions.
