#61 Dr. David G. Harper on Ketogenic Diets, Cancer Research, and the Power of Real Food
Power of Ketogenic Diet and Real Food | Cancer Research and Prevention | Dr. David G. Harper Dr. David G. Harper discusses the role of diet, specifically the ketogenic diet, in cancer research and treatment. He shares his journey of discovering the benefits of a high-fat, low-carb diet and its impact on chronic diseases. Dr. Harper explains the metabolic energy production of cancer cells and how a ketogenic diet can disrupt their growth. He also discusses the importance of hydrogen in energy production and the role of deuterium in cellular function. Dr. Harper concludes by highlighting the benefits of exogenous ketones and providing resources for further information. In this conversation, Dr. David G. Harper discusses the negative impact of ultra-processed foods and the need to prioritize real, unprocessed food. He emphasizes the importance of adopting a well-formulated ketogenic diet to reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Dr. Harper also highlights the challenges of communicating with policymakers and the value of direct communication with the public. Takeaways A ketogenic diet, high in fat and low in carbohydrates, has shown positive effects in cancer treatment and prevention. The metabolic energy production of cancer cells relies on glucose, making a low-carb diet effective in disrupting their growth. Hydrogen plays a crucial role in energy production and the functioning of mitochondria. Understanding the concept of calories and the importance of consuming nutrient-dense foods is key to a healthy diet. Exogenous ketones can provide additional benefits in cognitive function and metabolic health. Ultra-processed and processed foods make up a significant portion of the global food industry, but they are not beneficial for our health. Eating real, unprocessed food that farmers grow and making meals from scratch can help prevent chronic diseases and save on healthcare costs in the long run. Adopting a well-formulated ketogenic diet can reduce the risk of chronic diseases by approximately 70%.
