A Doctor’s Transformation
After 40 years of practicing medicine, Dr. Nelson has seen the healing power of diet from both sides of the examination room. At his heaviest, he weighed 320 pounds and dealt with multiple chronic health conditions. Today, he maintains a 120-pound weight loss and has reversed numerous health issues through a meat-based diet.
A Journey Through Different Dietary Approaches
Nelson’s path to better health began with early attempts at low-carb eating in the early 1990s, which helped him lose some weight but proved difficult to maintain. By 2023, weighing over 300 pounds and managing type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and other chronic conditions, he knew something needed to change. He started with a strict ketogenic diet, limiting carbohydrates to 20-30 grams daily, which resulted in modest improvements.
The Turning Point
In June 2023, a diagnosis of macular edema and an HbA1c of 6.7% prompted Nelson to explore the carnivore diet. Despite initial skepticism about eating only meat, he committed fully to the approach. The results were remarkable – within just three days, he experienced complete freedom from hunger and found himself naturally adopting a one-meal-a-day eating pattern.
Beyond Weight Loss
The improvements extended far beyond the scale. Nelson no longer requires blood pressure medications, previously needing high doses of multiple drugs. His HbA1c dropped to 5.4%, and his insulin requirements plummeted from 300 units daily to occasional minimal doses. Other chronic conditions, including plantar fasciitis, acid reflux, chronic pain, neuropathy symptoms, nail fungus, and eczema, have significantly improved or resolved.
From Wheelchair-Bound to Walking Free
Perhaps most remarkably, Nelson’s neurological health has transformed. Prior to his dietary change, severe lumbar spinal stenosis had left him nearly wheelchair-bound, requiring a cane or electric cart for mobility. Despite the underlying degenerative changes still being present, he now walks freely without assistance and experiences minimal pain.
A New Approach to Patient Care
This personal transformation has revolutionized Nelson’s medical practice. As a family physician, he now approaches patient care with a deeper understanding of metabolic health. He has pursued additional certifications in metabolic health and dedicates significant time to continuing education in this area.
Facing the Food Addiction Challenge
Nelson acknowledges the reality of carbohydrate and sugar addiction, distinguishing it from true food addiction. He notes that while everyone needs to eat, the compulsive consumption typically centers around processed carbohydrates and sugar-laden foods rather than whole, natural foods.
The Side Effects Question
When asked about negative effects of the carnivore diet, Nelson reports minimal adaptation issues. Initial adjustments to digestion and fat intake resolved quickly. The only ongoing consideration has been an increased need for salt, particularly given his previous salt restriction due to high blood pressure. He notes that adequate salt intake is now crucial for maintaining his energy levels.
Perspective on Processed Foods
Drawing on both personal experience and medical knowledge, Nelson now views ultra-processed foods differently than he did throughout most of his career. His transition to a meat-based diet has led him to reevaluate many conventional dietary recommendations, including those around fat intake and salt restriction.
From a physician struggling with chronic health conditions to someone who has reclaimed his health, Nelson’s story demonstrates the potential impact of dietary change. His experience as both a doctor and a patient offers a unique perspective on the relationship between diet and health, particularly in the context of chronic metabolic conditions.
