The Peat Whisperer

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Buyer: Madame Macintosh (support@korion.net)
Disclaimer
Please Read This
The information provided in this guide should not be construed

as personal medical advice or instruction. No action should be
taken based solely on the contents of this guide.
Readers should consult appropriate health professionals on

any matter relating to their health and well-being.
The information and opinions provided here are believed to be

accurate and sound, based on the best judgment available to
the author, but readers who fail to consult appropriate health
authorities assume the risk of any injuries.
Use of the programs, advice, and other information contained

in this guide is at the sole choice and risk of the reader.
Your health is in your own hands.
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Background
Why I Wrote This
I began researching physiology after stumbling

upon online forums populated by those using
steroids for bodybuilding competitions, as well as
those who were recovering, from using steroids for
bodybuilding competitions.
The optimization of thyroid, sex, and stress
hormones was commonplace and naturally
attracted me due to my interest in the hormonal
connection to male pattern baldness (my main focus
at the time).
Users would experiment with thyroid,
testosterone, pregnenolone, DHEA, and in general,
(verifiable by lab work) would make incredible
improvements.
Anecdotal reports after a few weeks of
hormone replacement therapy ranged from
extreme resistance to stress, improved libido,
alleviation of depression, cessation of hair loss, A few years later, I stumbled upon the work of
increased fat loss (without exercise), and corpse-like Dr. Raymond Peat, which I found to be truly
sleep. visionary.
However, there was a problem: there was no Dr. Peats research provides context for the
cohesive framework on how these hormones physiological effects of various hormones, as well
worked or what their physiological functions were. as their ability to promote or inhibit the production
Hormones and their effects were clouded by of real biological energy.
personal anecdotes (one week something has a While health problems are often thought of as
positive effect, the next it has a negative one) and compartmentalized failures of the bodys systems,
whatever the hottest anti-aging doctor believed at Dr. Peats research describes them as the result of
the time. a destabilization of the entire organism,
Additionally, the individual response to gels, suggesting that there are no closed systems
pellets, injections and supplements varied wildly and anywhere.
required frequent lab work to figure out user-created This guide is a snapshot of my current
hormonal imbalances. interpretation and understanding of Dr. Peats
I knew the forum-goers were on to something, work. It should be used as a resource and not a
but quickly saw the follies of attempting to prescription.
manipulate every element of our hormonal Hopefully this guide will be an aid in getting
environment through supplementation. you to where you want to be.
Danny Roddy June 2012
3
Glossary
Adaptive Stress Hormones - Cortisol, adrenaline, estrogen, serotonin, aldosterone, and

parathyroid hormone (PTH).
Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) - The energy currency of the cell. ATP has an Interdependent
relationship with structure, meaning that tissue destruction (degenerative condition) is the result of
an energy deficiency.
Adrenaline - Released from the adrenal glands to provide additional glucose (liver glycogen)
during stress. Adrenaline, like several other hormones, mobilizes free fatty acids for fuel when
glycogen has been exhausted. Adrenaline can support the metabolic rate when thyroid is deficient.
Aldosterone - Often referred to as the salt-retaining hormone, possibly to speed the use of
glucose during stress. Aldosterone increases several proinflammatory messengers and inhibits
oxidative energy.
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) - Produced in the cell and releases oxygen into the tissues. The efficient
use of oxygen depends on adequate carbon dioxide.
Cell - The smallest unit of life. Cells form tissues, tissues form organs, and organs form us.
Chronic stress requires additional cellular energy.
Cortisol - Cortisol is released from the adrenal glands to break down protein (muscles, thymus)
into amino acids to be converted into glucose (gluconeogenesis).
Endotoxin (Lipopolysaccharide, or LPS) - Common intestinal bacteria produce a molecule
containing amino acids and fatty acids called endotoxin. Endotoxins toxicity depends on its
absorption into the serum from a permeable leaky intestine.
Estrogen - While often referred to as the female hormone, estrogen is found in both sexes and
is increased in malnutrition and stress. Hans Selye called estrogen the shock hormone because
of its ability to mimic the first stage of stress. Estrogen increases energy requirements, while at the
same time inhibiting the cells ability to produce energy.
Glycolysis - A deficiency of carbon dioxide (or damaged mitochondria) inhibits the cells utilization
of oxygen and results in glycolysis; a drastically less efficient way to obtain energy producing less
carbon dioxide and less energy.
Metabolic Rate - The metabolic rate can be determined by the amount of water and calories
disposed of in a day. Two other indicators are pulse rate and body temperature. Those with low
metabolic rates often have cold extremities (hands, feet, nose, genitals) and a low pulse rate (~60s
and 70s). The metabolic rate is heavily influenced by thyroid hormone, but paradoxically can be
falsely elevated by numerous adaptive stress hormones.
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Mitochondria - Structure of the cell where energy is produced.

Oxidative Metabolism - A highly efficient way of producing energy. Oxidation refers to the
mitochondrial use of oxygen to produce energy (ATP) and carbon dioxide (CO2).
Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) - Calcium in the body is monitored by the quadruple redundancy of
the parathyroid glands. When calcium intake (or absorption) is inadequate, the parathyroid glands
release parathyroid hormone (PTH) to mobilize calcium from bones. PTH is inflammatory, increases
serotonin, and influences numerous other adaptive stress hormones.
Pregnenolone - Pregnenolone is produced from active thyroid hormone (T3), cholesterol, and
vitamin A in the mitochondria of the cell. It functions as a pre-hormone to which all other steroid
hormones are broken down from.
Progesterone - Progesterone is the prominent female hormone in the body, although it is found
(and important) in both sexes. Progesterone supports oxidative energy and opposes all of the
effects of estrogen.
Prolactin - Prolactin is produced both in pregnancy and stress. Its main role is breaking down
bone for the production of milk during pregnancy. Prolactin can cause impotence and depression
in males, premenopausal symptoms in women, and hair loss in both sexes.
Serotonin - Serotonin is a primitive adaptive stress hormone produced primarily in the intestine.
Serotonin inhibits oxidative energy, activates the pituitary (stress central), and increases cortisol,
estrogen, and prolactin.
Stress - A chronic (or great) exposure to a stressor (malnutrition, cold, allergens, x-rays, etc.)
resulting in several morphologic and functional changes such as enlargement of the adrenal
cortex, increased production of the adaptive stress hormones, involution of the thymus gland, and
variations in energy production.
Testosterone - Testosterone is the prominent male hormone in the body, although it is found
(and important) in both sexes. Testosterone promotes the use of oxygen, is an anti-estrogen, and
anti-prolactin.
Thyroid - An endocrine gland in the neck that regulates the metabolism, increases the
mitochondrial consumption of oxygen, and fuels the conversion of cholesterol (along with vitamin
A) into youthful protective hormones.
Triiodothyronine (T3) - Two of the most prominent thyroid hormones in the body are thyroxine
(T4) and the more metabolically active triiodothyronine (T3). T3 is made from an enzymatic
conversion from T4 predominantly in the liver.
Youthful Protective Hormones - Pregnenolone, progesterone, thyroid (triiodothyronine, or T3),
testosterone, and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA).
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THE PEAT WHISPERER
Competing Theories of Degeneration

The Metabolic Rate
The work of Dr. Raymond Peat1 is at odds with most dietary paradigms. Rather than
subscribing to nutritional theories of evolution, ethics, or what factor made an isolated
group of people healthy, Dr. Peats philosophy is focused on promoting and supporting
our capacity for generative energy.
Our inherent ability to produce energy can be suppressed anytime we encounter
stress. While stress is often thought of as a state of being, the biological eects of a
chronic stressor (or a great stress) influence the entire organism on the cellular level.
When we encounter a stress, our cells vigorously produce energy using glucose and
oxygen in an attempt to overcome the stressor. If energy production is inadequate (a lack
of oxygen during exercise for example), the body will compensate by releasing adaptive
stress hormones to meet energy requirements.
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THE PEAT WHISPERER

The Metabolic Rate
Stress in itself is not pathogenicit is an indispensable physiological ability to adapt
when the production of energy is insucientbut the hormones and inflammatory
markers closely associated with our response to stress, if used excessively, play a pivotal
role in the development in most all diseases.2
Because stress increases our energy requirements, eciently producing energy, at the
cellular level, can strongly influence our physical and mental response to stress.
The metabolic rate, the rate at which calories are burned, is an accurate
representation of our cellular ability to produce energy. The metabolic rate is influenced
by a variety of factors, especially the thyroid gland.
A simple set of self-diagnostics (pulse rate and underarm body temperature) can be
used to estimate the current status of the metabolic rate, thyroid health, and our ability to
produce energy.
Those with suppressed metabolic rates usually have low pulse rates (50-70 beats per
minute), may or may not be intolerant to cold (cold hands, cold feet, cold nose), and can
exhibit a host of other maladies (constipation, diarrhea, anxiety, depression, poor sleep,
lack of libido, skin problems, etc.).
The greatest factor in our cells ability to produce energy is how we interact with the
environment, but more specifically by the food we consume. While there is no perfect
diet or perfect food, there are foods that promote and hinder our inherent ability to
produce energy.
Solving the problem of a suppressed metabolic rate involves supporting our cells
ability to produce energy eciently, similar to that of a young child.
The Youthful Metabolism (High Metabolic Rate)

A highly ecient way of producing energy is called an oxidative metabolism.
Oxidation refers to the mitochondrial (energy producing part of the cell) use of oxygen to
produce carbon dioxide (CO2) and energy (ATP).3 This kind of metabolism is exemplified
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THE PEAT WHISPERER

The Metabolic Rate
in a healthy young adolescent who has energy for days, recovers quickly, and is warm to
the touch.
At the physiological level, glucose is broken down, and in the presence of oxygen,
healthy mitochondria produce energy and carbon dioxide.
The production of carbon dioxide, the utilization of glucose, and the vitality of the
mitochondria are all influenced by thyroid hormones. The most powerful thyroid
hormones are thyroxine (T4) and the more metabolically active triiodothyronine (T3). A
majority of the body's T3 is produced outside of the thyroid gland (primarily in the liver)
by an enzymatic conversion from T4.4
If T3 is successfully converted from T4, it can be combined with low-density
lipoprotein (LDL or bad cholesterol) and vitamin A in the mitochondria of the cell to form
the mother pre-hormone, pregnenolone.5 Pregnenolone can then be broken down
further into numerous youthful protective hormones (progesterone, testosterone, DHEA).
The Stressed Metabolism (Low Metabolic Rate)

Whereas healthy mitochondria are able to consume oxygen at a rapid rate,6 factors in
our environment, overtime, damage the mitochondria inhibiting their ability to use
oxygen. The reduced utilization of oxygen interrupts oxidative energy, shifting the cells
energy production to glycolysis; a drastically less ecient way to obtain energy.7
Homeostasis must be achieved, however, and adaptive stress hormones are released
to fulfill energy requirements.
While crucial for our survival, these adaptive hormones have degenerative qualities
when used in excess. Whereas pregnenolone, progesterone, thyroid, and DHEA support
energy production and regeneration, cortisol, serotonin, estrogen, parathyroid hormone
(PTH), and aldosterone inhibit energy production, promote inflammation, breakdown
structure, and intensify the actions of each other creating a vicious cycle.
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THE PEAT WHISPERER

The Metabolic Rate
Adrenaline
During stress, the cellular need for glucose increases. If glucose requirements cannot
be met, adrenaline is released from the adrenal glands to mobilize stored glucose from
the liver, called glycogen.8
If glycogen is deficient (low metabolic rate, stress), adrenaline (and other hormones)
will mobilize free fatty acids as a backup fuel. Glucose is provided by cortisol at the
expense of our thymus gland (immunity central) and muscle tissue.9
Normally, the release of saturated free fatty acids would create a negative feedback
loop by inhibiting the release of more adrenaline and cortisol, but because unsaturated
fats dominate our tissues, the stress reaction is intensified.
Similar to their ability to oxidize in a bottle, unsaturated fats oxidize in the serum
wasting oxygen in the process. This presents a problem given the mitochondrias need
for oxygen to produce energy.10
Additionally, free fatty acids can inhibit glucose utilization via the Randle cycle,11-13
displace T4 and vitamin A from the carrier protein transthyretin,14 degrade cytochrome
oxidase (the last crucial energy producing step in the mitochondria) through the
displacement of palmitic acid in the lipid cardiolipin,15 and retard sex hormone binding
globulin from removing excess estrogen.16
Cortisol
Cortisol's main function is to provide glucose at the expense of protein during stress.
Cortisol breaks down muscles as well as the thymus gland ("immunity central") into
amino acids to be converted in the liver into glucose via gluconeogenesis.
Muscle tissue contains large amounts of the amino acids tryptophan, methionine, and
cysteine. When these amino acids are liberated during stress they can suppress the
metabolic rate.17
The physiological eects of excess cortisol can be misleading. Excess cortisol makes
one feel good at first, possibly because of its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to
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The Metabolic Rate
promote euphoria.18 Overtime, however, excess cortisol causes excessive muscle
wasting, depresses immunity (from chronic destruction of the thymus gland), and leads
to other sexual and mood problems.
Serotonin & Endotoxin

While often thought of as the happy hormone, serotonin is a primitive adaptive
stress hormone involved in peristalsis, muscular contractions, diarrhea, and vomiting.
During stress, the blood supply to the extremities and intestine is reduced to nourish
the muscles for pending action.19
A decrease in circulation to the intestine, which produces 95%20 of the serotonin in
the body, increases its sensitivity to friction, poorly digested food, stretching, or an
inappropriate amount of bacteria, which can all increase levels of serotonin.21
Excess serotonin increases several markers of stress and inflammation: corticotropin-
release hormone (CRH),22,23 adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH),24 histamine,
inflammatory cytokines, and nitric oxidewhich can suppress oxidative energy and
increase the permeability (leakiness) of the intestine. 25
Intestinal permeability increases the absorption of a molecule produced by intestinal
bacteria called endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide, or LPS).
Endotoxin in the serum is normally detoxified by the lungs or liver, but can be
impaired during stress or in those with a low metabolic rate. Endotoxin burdens the liver,
which produces 2/3 of active thyroid hormone and in a vicious cycle increases levels of
serotonin.
Both endotoxin and serotonin increase levels of the "shock" hormone, estrogen. While
endotoxin inhibits the liver's ability to "deactivate estrogen" (making it water soluble),
serotonin and estrogen synergize by increasing the synthesis of serotonin and
decreasing its breakdown.26,27
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THE PEAT WHISPERER

The Metabolic Rate
Estrogen
Estrogen has been labeled the female hormone, yet its ability to increase adrenal
androgens,28 mimic the first phase of the stress reaction, and promote numerous male
characteristics, 29,30 suggest otherwise.
While women normally have higher levels than males, malnutrition, stress, low thyroid,
and inflammation can greatly influence estrogen levels in both sexes.31,32
When blood sugar runs low, adrenaline is released to mobilize additional glucose from
the liver (glycogen). If glycogen is low or has been depleted, fuel requirements will be met
by releasing free fatty acids as a backup fuel, while glucose will be provided by cortisols
breakdown of protein.
Along with a de-energized liver (glycogen deficient), which normally detoxifies all of
the estrogen in the body, the release of free fatty acids can be broken down into
proinflammatory prostaglandins activating the aromatase enzyme (creates new estrogen).
33
Estrogen has an inverse relationship with progesterone, which can be considered the
real feminizing hormone. Whereas estrogen wastes nutrients,32 causes deranged
glucose metabolism,35,36 inhibits the production of thyroid hormones (stimulates
thyroglobulin, but inhibits its breakdown),37 increases serotonin,38 and can increase
prolactin;39 progesterone has all of the opposite eects.40,41
Prolactin & Parathyroid Hormone (PTH)

While largely thought to be the regulator of milk production, prolactin is a lesser-
known adaptive hormone secreted during pregnancy or stress.42
Estrogen and serotonin can increase prolactin, which suppresses the thyroid,
increases the anti-bone protein osteoprotegerin,43 and can lead to the loss of hair in both
sexes.44
Prolactin causes the body to draw calcium from the bones, which is under tight
regulation by the parathyroid glands. The organs (along with the thyroid and vitamin D)
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THE PEAT WHISPERER

The Metabolic Rate
modulate the level of calcium and phosphorous in the blood, increasing parathyroid
hormone (PTH) to compensate for the loss of calcium by removing it from the bones.
PTH increases serotonin, the inflammatory messenger interleukin-6, and in a vicious
cycle potentiates the release of prolactin.45,46
Aldosterone
Aldosterone regulates water balance throughout the body and is often called, the salt
retaining hormone, which may be to speed the use of glucose during stress.47
Aldosterone is part of the renin-angiotensin system, which is implicated in a variety of
inflammatory disorders. Angiotensin II, which is promoted by excess aldosterone, is a
potent inflammatory messenger.48
Cortisol, estrogen, and serotonin increase levels of aldosterone causing edema, high
blood pressure, and the loss of sodium, magnesium, potassium, and probably calcium.49
The Pro-Thyroid Blueprint

Adrenaline, cortisol, serotonin, endotoxin, estrogen, prolactin, parathyroid hormone,
and aldosterone suppress the metabolic rate, promote inflammation, and undermine the
goal of producing youthful energy.
It is reasonable to believe that optimizing or restoring the known factors involved in
energy production would bring about the same regenerative abilities associated with
youth.
Given the thyroids profound role in promoting oxidative energy, Dr. Peats philosophy
can be thought of as a pro-thyroid way of living; increasing our inherent ability to
produce cellular energy thus limiting the need for adaptive stress hormones to
compensate.
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THE PEAT WHISPERER

The Metabolic Rate
Key Ideas
Stress & Energy: The guiding principle behind the work of Dr. Peat is promoting the
organisms inherent ability to produce energy. Energy production maintains the integrity of
our cells as well as the integrity of our structure. Chronic stress requires additional energy,
and if energy requirements cannot be met, adaptive stress hormones will be released to
provide energy. A feature of this adaptation is the release of fats in the tissue as a source
of fuel. Because unsaturated fats dominate our tissues, their release as a source of fuel
intensifies the stress response by interrupting thyroid production, transfer, and signaling,
wasting oxygen, and blocking the use of glucose. Context for all food, supplements, and
lifestyle are assessed based on their effect on energy production.
The Youthful Metabolism (High Metabolic Rate): Healthy mitochondria consume

oxygen, producing an abundance of energy (ATP) and carbon dioxide in a process known
as oxidative energy. The production of energy is efficient; supporting the characteristic
regenerative abilities associated with youth.
The Stressed Metabolism (Low Metabolic Rate): Overtime, environmental factors

(unsaturated fat consumption, light deficiency, toxic heavy metals) damage our
mitochondria inhibiting the use of oxygen. Without oxygen, oxidative energy is stifled, and
cells produce energy through glycolysis (less ATP and carbon dioxide). A decrease in ATP
and a lack of oxygen contributes to disfunction of the mitochondria. To compensate for
the lack of energy, adaptive stress hormones are released to meet fuel requirements.
While protective in the short-term, these hormones are degenerative in the long-term.
The Protective (Youthful) Hormones: Hormones that promote energy production and
protect the structure of the cell are triiodothyronine (T3), pregnenolone, progesterone,
DHEA, and testosterone.
The Adaptive (Stress) Hormones: Adrenaline, cortisol, serotonin, estrogen, parathyroid

hormone (PTH), and aldosterone are all needed when the stressor is greater than our
ability to produce energy. While protective in the short-term these hormones are
destructive in the long-term.
The Pro-Thyroid Blueprint: The following sections will discuss how sugars, saturated
fats, and proteins can support or inhibit the thyroid gland and the production of oxidative
energy.
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THE PEAT WHISPERER

Chapter References
1. Raypeat.com
2. Selye H. The Story of Adaptation Syndrome
3. Peat R. Mitochondria and mortality.
4. Barnes, Broda. Hope For Hypoglycemia. Fries Communications; Revised edition (June 1989) p.16
5. Peat R. Nutrition For Women. 1993
6. Peat R. Aspirin, brain, and cancer
7. Peat R. Generative Energy p.37
8. Peat R. Glycemia, starch, and sugar in context
10.Peat R. Fats, functions & malfunctions
11.Hue L, Taegtmeyer H. The Randle cycle revisited: a new head for an old hat. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab.
2009 Sep;297(3):E578-91. Epub 2009 Jun 16.
12.Kelley DE, Mandarino LJ. Fuel selection in human skeletal muscle in insulin resistance: a reexamination. Diabetes.
2000 May;49(5):677-83.
13.Frayn KN. The glucose-fatty acid cycle: a physiological perspective. Biochem Soc Trans. 2003 Dec;31(Pt 6):
1115-9.
14.Peat R. TSH, temperature, pulse rate, and other indicators in hypothyroidism.
15.Peat R. Aspirin, brain, and cancer
17.Peat R. Gelatin, stress, longevity
18.Martin C. Endocrine Physiology. p.216
19.Peat R. Radio Interview. Serotonin and Endotoxin.
21.Peat R. Endotoxin, stress, depression: Serotonin, starches, fatty acids, and antidotes
26.Peat R. Serotonin: Effects in disease, aging and inflammation
28.Ditkoff EC, et al. The impact of estrogen on adrenal androgen sensitivity and secretion in polycystic ovary
syndrome. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 1995 Feb;80(2):603-7.
29.Selye H. The Textbook of Endocrinology. p. 401
30.Martin C. Endocrine Physiology. p. 556
32.Peat R. From PMS to Menopause. p. 44
33.Peat R. Preventing and treating cancer with progesterone.
34.Peat R. Nutrition For Women. 1993 p. 12
35.Peat R. Nutrition For Women. 1993 p. 13
37.Peat R. Thyroiditis, Some confusions and causes of autoimmune diseases
40.Peat R. Progesterone Summaries
41.Peat R. Estrogen & Osteoporosis
43.Peat R. Osteoporosis, aging, tissue renewal, and product science
44.Schmidt JB. Hormonal basis of male and female androgenic alopecia: clinical relevance. Skin Pharmacol.
1994;7(1-2):61-6.
45.Peat R. Calcium and Disease: Hypertension, organ calcification, & shock, vs. respiratory energy
46.Peat R. Osteoporosis, aging, tissue renewal, and product science
47. Peat R. Water: swelling, tension, pain, fatigue, aging.
48. Peat R. Nutrition For Women. 1993 p.32
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THE PEAT WHISPERER
Pro-Thyroid Blueprint Suggestion #1

High Sugar/Fat Ratio
In the context of an oxidative metabolism, sugar is used constructively, energizing

tissues, increasing energy expenditure, generating body heat, refueling glycogen, and
most importantly speeding the rate of renewal.1
Looking at sugar, outside the context of oxidative energy, lends itself to mechanic-like
reductionist thinking. Ideas such as, too much sugar gives you diabetes and, sugar
causes cancer are outgrowths of this line of thinking.
Sugar & Stress

be met, adrenaline is released from the adrenal glands to convert liver glycogen (stored
glucose) to provide additional glucose.2
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THE PEAT WHISPERER

High Carb/Fat Ratio
If glycogen is deficient (low thyroid, poor liver function, inadequate intake of sugar),
adrenaline (and other hormones) will mobilize free fatty acids to use as fuel.
Free fatty acids disturb the production,3 transport,4 and signaling of thyroid hormones,
5 but they also interrupt glucose oxidation in a process known as the Randle Cycle or
Randle eect, which is the metabolic competition between glucose and free fatty acids.
6,7,8
When glucose cannot be utilized or is in short supply, more cortisol is produced to

provide glucose via the breakdown of structure (muscles, thymus gland) for glucose-
dependent systems.9
Sugar & Carbon Dioxide (CO2)

The inability to use oxygen (carbon dioxide deficiency or damaged mitochondria)
shifts energy production away from oxidative energy to inecient glycolysis (less ATP,
less CO2, but more lactic acid).10
The production of lactic acid is normally suppressed in the presence of carbon
dioxide but is increased during glycolysis. Whereas carbon dioxide releases oxygen into
the tissues, relaxes blood vessels, prevents edema, eliminates ammonia, and increases
the eciency of oxidative metabolism, lactic acid suppresses glucose oxidation, drains
the liver of its glycogen, promotes inflammation, increases the eects of serotonin,
estrogen, and endotoxin, and promotes fat oxidation.11-15
The oxidation of sugar provides more carbon dioxide (CO2) than the use of fatty
acids.16,17 Additionally diets higher in fructose, rather than starch, provide more useable
CO2.18
Sugar & The Liver

The liver has been referred to as the glucostatic organ. Simple sugars freely enter
liver cells to either be converted into glucose or be stored for later as glycogen. Properly
16
THE PEAT WHISPERER

High Carb/Fat Ratio
energizing the liver is paramount, due the livers role in converting as much as two-
thirds of the metabolically active thyroid hormone, triiodothyronine (T3).19
When the body is without food for several hours or a stress is encountered, adrenaline
begins to mobilize glycogen. The ecacy of the storage and utilization of glycogen is a
significant factor in our response to stress.20
Selenium, which is needed in adequate amounts to help the liver detoxify, requires
adequate glucose to fuel the deiodinase enzymes that convert T4 to T3.21,22
A healthy liver detoxifies 100% of the estrogen in the body. A diet high in unsaturated
fat, low in sugar, low in protein, and low in b-vitamins can all impair liver function and
increase estrogen.23,24,25
History of Fructose
In the 1800s, early diabetes researchers P. A. Piorry and Dr. William Budd found that
their patients wasted glucose in their urine. Replacing the sugar lost in the urine with
large amounts of table sugar decreased sugar wasting and indicated an increased ability
to metabolize sugar. 26
In 1874, E. Kulz noted that diabetics could utilize fructose better than they could
glucose. Later, it was demonstrated that fructose was able to support oxidative energy
when glucose utilization was inhibited.27
In the 1950s professor John Yudkin contested the idea of saturated fat causing heart
disease. Yudkins book, Pure White and Deadly, outlined sugars (especially fructoses)
role in increasing serum cholesterol, which he believed to be responsible for poor heart
health. Yudkins belief that sugar caused high cholesteroland that high cholesterol
caused heart diseaseled to the promotion of unsaturated fats to lower cholesterol.28
Yudkins research on sugars ability to increase cholesterol did not consider the fact
that cholesterol protects against stress, is an antioxidant, promotes oxidative energy, and
is the starting point in the creation of youthful protective hormones.29,30
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THE PEAT WHISPERER

High Carb/Fat Ratio
In contrary to what has recently been said about fructose, its ability to increase
cholesterol,31 stabilize blood sugar,32,33 eciently refuel glycogen,34 protect the liver,35
improve the utilization of glucose,36,37 and increase oxidative energy 38-42 suggest that it is
a protective, pro-thyroid food.
It is worth noting that high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) and sucrose are not the same.
In an experiment in Los Angeles, researchers found that when hydrolyzed, HFCS was
found to have 4-5 times the caloric value and contained starch-like material.43
Lactose
Proponents of the milk cure, a popular fad diet in the 1920s, stated No sugar, with
the single exception of dextrose (the finished sugar of carbohydrate metabolism), is so
easily assimilated as lactose, milk sugar.44
Lactose is a disaccharide made out of glucose and galactose. When digested
properly, the intestine breaks down lactose via the lactase enzyme. Benefits of lactose
include enhanced calcium absorption, antagonism towards endotoxin, and slowing the
absorption of amino acids in order to maintain a steady blood sugar.45-47
Lactose intolerance can result from many common conditions such as a low
metabolic rate, excessive inflammation, bacterial infections, a damaged intestine, and
progesterone deficiency.48-51
Starch (Potatoes, Rice, etc.)

The consumption of starch does not support oxidative energy to the degree that
sugar (fruit) does and in many ways can suppress it.52
Beans, pulses, and root vegetables are not fully broken down by the small intestine
during digestion. Their sugars go on to cause gas and toxins in the large intestine, which
is part of the molecular basis for lactose intolerance. 53
The digestion of soft ripe fruits (and other sugars) happens in the small intestine
avoiding complications with bacterial endotoxin.52,53
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THE PEAT WHISPERER

High Carb/Fat Ratio
Vegetables (Broccoli, Greens, etc.)
Excess fiber, carotene, and unsaturated fats in vegetables can be problematic for
those with low metabolic rates. With the exception of raw carrots, which have medicinal
properties that cleanse the intestine, vegetables in general do not induce any kind of
desirable metabolic response.54,55
Grains (Wheat, etc.)

Grains contain a high amount of phosphate to calcium, iron, and can be potent
intestinal allergens.56
While masa harina and oats are less harmful than wheat-containing grains, these
foods can present problems with parathyroid hormone, serotonin, and endotoxin.
Brown Sugar, Maple Syrup, Molasses & Honey

While the following sugars have similar chemical composition to sucrose, brown
sugar, maple syrup, molasses, and some honeys contain allergens that can be the cause
of bloating, diarrhea, or flatulence.57
Finding unheated honey usually means that its processing is minimal and that the
honey is of high-quality.
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THE PEAT WHISPERER

High Carb/Fat Ratio
Key Ideas
Sugar is Anti-Stress: Running on fatty acids is a feature of old age and

stress. A sugar based metabolism resists the need for the excessive
liberation of fatty acids, increases carbon dioxide levels, and suppresses the
need for the adaptive stress hormones when sugar in the diet is deficient or
cannot be used properly.
Sugar Supports CO2 Production: Carbon dioxide is integral for delivering

oxygen to the tissue and supporting oxidative energy. High carbohydrate
diets support carbon dioxide production more so that diets based on fatty
acids. Additionally, high sugar diets support carbon dioxide production better
than starch-based diets.
Fructose: Fructose enhances the production of carbon dioxide, can be

used for oxidative energy (when glucose cannot), and is excellent at restoring
liver glycogen (a large factor in stress).
Starch: When compared to sugar (fruit), starch has drawbacks such as

increased fiber content that can increase bacterial endotoxin, lacks fructose,
and can be difficult to assimilate if not cooked for long enough (~one hour).
Vegetables: When compared to sugar, low-calorie vegetable matter pose

problems with endotoxin, contain anti-nutrients, and when compared to
animal foods and fruit, provide little nutrition.
Grains: Masa harina, corn, and oatmeal are safer than wheat containing
grains, but can skew the calcium to phosphate ratio causing problems with
parathyroid hormone.
Other Sugars: Brown sugar, maple syrup, molasses, and some honeys can
be heated to exceptionally high temperatures during manufacturing. This
process can sometimes create intestinal allergens.
20
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Chapter References
1. Peat R. Generative Energy
3. Peat R. Thyroiditis, Some confusions and causes of autoimmune diseases
4. Peat R. TSH, temperature, pulse rate, and other indicators in hypothyroidism.
5. Peat R. Fats, functions & malfunctions
6. Hue L, Taegtmeyer H. The Randle cycle revisited: a new head for an old hat. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab. 2009 Sep;297(3):E578-91. Epub 2009
Jun 16.
7. Kelley DE, Mandarino LJ. Fuel selection in human skeletal muscle in insulin resistance: a reexamination. Diabetes. 2000 May;49(5):677-83.
8. Frayn KN. The glucose-fatty acid cycle: a physiological perspective. Biochem Soc Trans. 2003 Dec;31(Pt 6):1115-9.
10.Peat R. Generative Energy. p.37
11.Peat R. Mitochondria and mortality.
12.Peat R. Glycemia, starch, and sugar in context
13.Peat R. Protective CO2 and aging
14.Peat R. The transparency of life: Cataracts as a model of age-related disease
15.Peat R. Lactate vs. CO2 in wounds, sickness, and aging; the other approach to cancer
16.Peat R. TSH, temperature, pulse rate, and other indicators in hypothyroidism
17.Vito A, et al. Effects of Low and High Carbohydrate Feedings in Ambulatory Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Chronic
Hypercapnia. December 1, 1985vol. 103 no. 6 Part 1 883-885
18.Brundin T, et al. Whole body and splanchnic oxygen consumption and blood flow after oral ingestion of fructose or glucose. Am J Physiol. 1993 Apr;
264(4 Pt 1):E504-13.
21.Peat R. Radio Interview: The Thyroid.
22.Olivieri O, et al. Low selenium status in the elderly influences thyroid hormones. Clin Sci (Lond). 1995 Dec;89(6):637-42.
24.Peat R. Unsaturated Vegetable Oils: Toxic.
25.Peat R. Eclampsia in the Real Organism: A Paradigm of General Distress Applicable in Infants, Adults, Etc.
26.Peat R. Glucose and sucrose for diabetes
27.Peat R. Sugar Issues
28.Peat R. Sugar Issues
29.Peat R. Radio Interview: Cholesterol & Saturated Fats
30.Peat R. Cholesterol, longevity, intelligence, and health
31.Peat R. Coconut Oil.
32.Malerbi DA, et al. Metabolic effects of dietary sucrose and fructose in type II diabetic subjects. Diabetes Care. 1996 Nov;19(11):1249-56.
33.Bantle JP, et al. Metabolic effects of dietary sucrose in type II diabetic subjects. Diabetes Care. 1993 Sep;16(9):1301-5.
34.Ivy JL. Glycogen resynthesis after exercise: effect of carbohydrate intake. Int J Sports Med. 1998 Jun;19 Suppl 2:S142-5.
35.I. Anundi, et al. Fructose prevents hypoxic cell death in liver. September 1987 vol. 253 no. 3 G390-G396
36.Jentjens RL, et al. High rates of exogenous carbohydrate oxidation from a mixture of glucose and fructose ingested during prolonged cycling exercise.
Br J Nutr. 2005 Apr;93(4):485-92.
37.Triplett D, et al. An isocaloric glucose-fructose beverage's effect on simulated 100-km cycling performance compared with a glucose-only beverage. Int
J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2010 Apr;20(2):122-31.
38.J. Wahren, et al. Whole body and splanchnic oxygen consumption and blood flow after oral ingestion of fructose or glucose. Endo April 1993 vol. 264
no. 4 E504-E513
39.Mizobe T, et al. Fructose administration increases intraoperative core temperature by augmenting both metabolic rate and the vasoconstriction
threshold.
40.Peat R. KMUD Radio Interview: Sugar Part I
41.Peat R. KMUD Radio Interview: Sugar Part II
42.Peat R. Radio Interview: Glycemia, Starch, and Sugar in context!
43.Emmelyn Hsieh, et al. Carbohydrate Analysis of High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) Containing Commercial Beverages. ASEB J.April 201024 (Meeting
Abstract Supplement) 562.1
44.Macfadden B. The Miracle of Milk: How to Use the Milk Diet Scientifically at Home. Acres U.S.A.; 1 edition (2011) p.9
45.Peat R. Milk in context: allergies, ecology, and some myths
46.Peat R. KMUD Radio Interview. Milk
47.Peat R. East West Healing Radio Show. Ray Peat: Milk, Calcium, & Hormones
48.Campbell AK, et al. The molecular basis of lactose intolerance. Sci Prog. 2005;88(Pt 3):157-202.
50.Peat R. KMUD Radio Interview. Milk
51.Peat R. East West Healing Radio Show. Ray Peat: Milk, Calcium, & Hormones
52.Brundin T, et al. Whole body and splanchnic oxygen consumption and blood flow after oral ingestion of fructose or glucose. Am J Physiol. 1993 Apr;
264(4 Pt 1):E504-13.
53.Campbell AK, et al. The molecular basis of lactose intolerance. Sci Prog. 2005;88(Pt 3):157-202.
54.Peat R. Menopause and its causes
55.Peat R. Vegetables, etc.Who Defines Food?
56.Peat R. Unsaturated Vegetable Oils: Toxic
21
THE PEAT WHISPERER

High Saturated/Unsaturated Fat Ratio
All fats and oils, whether of vegetable or animal origin, are a combination of saturated,
monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fatty acids. The major dierence between these
fats is their degree of saturation. Highly unsaturated fats (polyunsaturated fats, or PUFA)
have more carbon double bonds, while saturated fats have fewer double bonds and
more hydrogen bonds.
The susceptibility of a fat to oxidation (combining with oxygen) is governed by its
number of double bonds. Oxidation, in the context of oxidative energy (the ability of the
mitochondria to use oxygen), is beneficial, but the oxidation of polyunsaturated fats
eectively steals oxygen from the mitochondria and produces breakdown products
called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are highly problematic as they produce
inflammation and intensify the eects of serotonin and estrogen.1-3
22
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Unsaturated Fats & Stress
Soybean oil, corn oil, cottonseed oil, vegetable oil, rapeseed oil, margarine, peanut oil,
sesame oil, and canola oil are all examples of highly unsaturated fats (polyunsaturated
fatty acids or PUFA) that make up a large percentage of calories in the Western diet.4
be met, adrenaline is released to mobilize glycogen from the liver, and if it is not there,
adrenaline (and other hormones) will mobilize free fatty acids for fuel.5
Fats are preferentially released from the tissue depending on their saturation.
Docosahexaenoic acid or DHA (6 double bonds) is released before linoleic acid or LA (2
double bonds) due to the bodys preference for saturated fats to support specific
functions.6
Normally, the release of fatty acids would create a negative feedback loop by
inhibiting the release of more adrenaline and cortisol,7 but because our tissues are
dominated by unsaturated fats, the stress reaction is intensified.8
Unsaturated fats inhibit thyroid hormone production,9 transport,10 and activation.11
They promote serotonin production,12 inhibit pancreatic digestive enzymes needed for
proper protein assimilation,13 and promote insulin resistance via the Randle cycle.14-16
Some fatty acids can be converted by the liver into ketone bodies, which is a safe
fuel, however, the free fatty acids that are not broken down into ketones can be further
converted into proinflammatory prostaglandins. Prostaglandins suppress immunity,
cause inflammation, increase the aromatase enzyme (producing new estrogen), and
promote cancer growth.17-19
Essential Fatty Acid Deficiency

Newborn babies are born with essential fatty acid deficiency indicated by the
presence of mead acid (an anti-inflammatory omega-9 polyunsaturated fatty acid
humans are able to make) in their blood.20
The babys lifelong diminishing ability to produce energy can be seen on a
physiological level by the destabilization of the mitochondrial fat, cardiolipin. Cardiolipin
supports the cytochrome c oxidase enzyme, which is responsible for the last crucial step
of the electron transport chain in the mitochondria to produce oxidative energy.
23
THE PEAT WHISPERER

In newborns, cardiolipin contains the saturated fat palmitic acid, but consuming
unsaturated fats, overtime, replace palmitic acid deactivating cytochrome c oxidase,
resulting in less energy and damaging the mitochondria.21,22
Flax & Fish Oils

Before the supplement industry ever promoted an omega-3 product as a health
supplement, they promoted linseed and flax seed oils to use as varnish.
After chemists learned to make paint from petroleum, the market for unsaturated fats
went stagnant. The industry reemerged after farmers were attempting to fatten pigs with
less food. Experiments demonstrated that feeding animals with coconut oil produced
lean animals with high metabolic rates, while using unsaturated fats like soy and corn oil
poisoned their metabolisms causing the animals to gain more weight with fewer calories.
24
The benefits of fish oil may be in the form of their ability to suppress the immune
system. Unlike seed oils, the highly unsaturated fats from fish oil are so unstable their
breakdown products interfere with the production of prostaglandins.25-28
Supplementation with fish oil may provide short-term eects of interrupting prostaglandin
synthesis and quieting the immune system, but long-term eects of immune suppression
and thyroid inhibition.
Saturated Fats
Short-, medium-, and long-chain saturated fats have been found to be pro-thyroid
and anti-serotonin,29 displace unsaturated fats from the tissue,30 and protect the liver.31
Coconut oil (refined, odorless to avoid possible allergenicity) contains less than 5%
polyunsaturated fat (omega-6) and is mostly saturated. Coconut oil may exert its pro-
thyroid eect by enhancing the tissues sensitivity to active thyroid hormone (T3), and
allow optimal function of the thyroid and mitochondria due to its extremely low
concentration of polyunsaturated fat.32
A unique trait of coconut oil is its ability to displace unsaturated fats from the tissue.
Over time, a few teaspoons to tablespoons a day of will help with the detoxification of
unsaturated fats from the tissues.33-35
24
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Key Ideas
Unsaturated Fats: The degree of unsaturation depends on the amount of

double bonds. Unsaturated fatty acids have more double bonds while
saturated fats have less. Unsaturated fats interrupt the production,
transportation, and signaling of thyroid hormones, which inhibits oxidative
energy. Additionally, unsaturated fats inhibit digestive enzymes, inhibit the
use of glucose, and damage the mitochondria.
Prostaglandins: When free fatty acids are released into the serum they can
be broken down into proinflammatory prostaglandins. Prostaglandins
activate the aromatase enzyme, creating new estrogen, and enhance the
conversion of tryptophan into serotonin.
Essential Fatty Acid Deficiency: Babies are born essential fatty acid
deficient. This is measured by the presence of mead acid in the tissue. Mead
acid, a safe unsaturated fat our bodies produce, is an anti-inflammatory, pro-
metabolic fat. As the child consumes more unsaturated fats, a saturated fat
found in the mitochondria is displaced with unsaturated fat, decreasing the
activity of the crucial respiratory enzyme cytochrome c oxidase.
Fish Oil: Fish oil is extremely fragile and unlike vegetable and seed oils,
breaks down before it can be incorporated in the cell. The breakdown of
these oils can inhibit the synthesis of proinflammatory prostaglandins, but
overtime can suppress the immune system, similar to innocuous
treatments of the past like radiation.
Saturated Fats: Saturated fats are resistant in the face of heat, support
thyroid function, are competitive with unsaturated fats in the serum, and can
displace unsaturated fats from the tissue.
25
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Chapter References
1.Peat R. Unsaturated fatty acids: Nutritionally essential, or toxic?
3.Peat R. Suitable Fats, Unsuitable Fats: Issues in Nutrition
4.Food Supply 1909-2004 Report
7.Katoh K, et al. Saturated fatty acids suppress adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) release
from rat anterior pituitary cells in vitro. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol. 2004 Feb;
137(2):357-64.
9.Peat R. Thyroiditis, Some confusions and causes of autoimmune diseases
10.Peat R. TSH, temperature, pulse rate, and other indicators in hypothyroidism.
14.Hue L, Taegtmeyer H. The Randle cycle revisited: a new head for an old hat. Am J Physiol
Endocrinol Metab. 2009 Sep;297(3):E578-91. Epub 2009 Jun 16.
15.Kelley DE, Mandarino LJ. Fuel selection in human skeletal muscle in insulin resistance: a
reexamination. Diabetes. 2000 May;49(5):677-83.
16.Frayn KN. The glucose-fatty acid cycle: a physiological perspective. Biochem Soc Trans.
2003 Dec;31(Pt 6):1115-9.
18.Peat R. Suitable Fats, Unsuitable Fats: Issues in Nutrition
20.Peat R. Aspirin, brain, and cancer
22.Peat R. Aging Eyes, Infant Eyes, and Excitable Tissues
23.Peat R. The Great Fish Oil Experiment
25.Peat R. The Great Fish Oil Experiment
26.Peat R. East West Healing Radio Show. Ray Peat: Dangers of PUFA
27.Peat R. East West Healing Radio Show. Ray Peat: Saturated Fat & Cholesterol
28.Peat R. Politics & Science Radio Interview: Fats
29.Peat R. Coconut oil.
31.Nanji AA, et al. Dietary saturated fatty acids reverse inflammatory and fibrotic changes in rat
liver despite continued ethanol administration. J Pharmacol Exp Ther. 2001 Nov;299(2):638-44.
32.Peat R. Oils in context.
34.Peat R. East West Healing Radio Show. Ray Peat: Dangers of PUFA
35.Peat R. Politics & Science Radio Interview: Fats
26
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Adequate Nutrient-Dense Animal Protein
Protein is a double-edged sword and can both promote and suppress energy
production. Many of the amino acids found in high-quality animal proteins are
inflammatory in large amounts (cysteine, methionine, and tryptophan),1 as well as
increase the need for the nutrients pyridoxine (B6)2 and vitamin A.3
Tryptophan is particularly dangerous when combined with a low a metabolic rate and
malnutrition. The metabolism of tryptophan can favor the b-vitamin, niacin, or the
hormone serotonin, which can increase and intensify the actions of endotoxin, estrogen,
and prolactin.4-7
Supplying nutrients to sway tryptophans conversion into the B-vitamin niacin (high
calcium-to-phosphate ratio, b-vitamins)8-10 instead of serotonin, can help guard against
its degenerative eects.
27
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Protein & The Liver
Energizing the liver with adequate sugar and protein is an essential aspect of
supporting oxidative energy due to its role in converting 2/3 of thyroxine (T4) to the active
thyroid hormone, triiodothyronine, or T3.11
In 1950 Lipschuts found that dietary protein was essential in order for the liver to
detoxify estrogen. Similarly, the full suite of b-vitamins commonly found in animal
proteins is needed for dierent steps of liver detoxification.12-14
Normally, the liver treats estrogen like a toxin immediately removing it from the body. If
the liver gets sluggish from malnutrition, a low metabolic rate, or too much estrogen, it
will cause an increased accumulation of estrogen.15
Milk
When compared to muscle meats, milk has a higher calcium-to-phosphate ratio,
contains preformed vitamin A, and contains low amounts of iron.
Although the tryptophan content of milk is high, calciums role in increasing carbon
dioxide (CO2) influences levels of serotonin in the blood.16
Milk contains the protective hormones testosterone and progesterone, but also
contains minuscule amounts of estrogen. While any excess estrogen is undesirable, the
estrogen in milk comes prepackaged with enzymes that make it readily available for
excretion upon ingestion.17
The benefits of milk include nutrient density (calcium especially), low unsaturated fat
content, lack of fiber, lack of iron, no anti-nutrients (phytic acid), and is extremely
convenient (no cooking).
Finding the right type of milk (raw, pasteurized, ultrapasteurized, lactose-free) can
be a challenge for some. In regards to raw milk, some may find the probiotic bacteria to
disagree with their gut ecosystem. While counterintuitive, pasteurized or even
ultrapasteurized (and lactose-free) varieties may be better tolerated.18
Overcoming lactose intolerance strategies include: introducing small amounts (1/2 c.)
with each meal for several weeks, suppressing bacterial endotoxin with a daily raw
28
THE PEAT WHISPERER

carrot,19 becoming vitamin A replete (which can help with numerous allergies), and
consuming milk with plenty of sugar and salt to restrain adaptive stress hormones.
Gelatin
Gelatin is an anti-inflammatory protein that can be made from bones, chicken feet, pig
ears, and oxtail.
Unlike muscle meats, gelatin contains significantly less cysteine, methionine, and
tryptophan.20
Gelatin contains a large amount of the protective amino acid glycine. Glycine can act
as an anesthetic, promoting the GABA system (calming). This system opposes estrogens
excitatory features and most likely has anti-estrogenic activity.21,22
In addition, glycine acts as an anti-inflammatory suppressing the formation of the
inflammatory messengers tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and serotonin.
23,24
Shellfish
An increased metabolic rate (usually indicated by pulse and body temperature)
requires additional nutrients. Zinc, copper, and selenium are three hard to get nutrients
found in abundance in seafood, especially oysters and shrimp.25,26
Liver
Liver contains large amounts of vitamins A, D, E, K, folic acid, copper, zinc, riboflavin,
pyridoxine, B12, and carnitine.
Livers vitamin A content (~30,000 IU) per 4 oz. is particularly useful given that it is a
key ingredient in the production of the pre-hormone pregnenolone.27
Eggs
Eggs contain vitamins A, D, E, K, B-vitamins, the hard-to-get mineral selenium, and
the building block of steroid synthesis cholesterol.28 Pastured eggs may have even
higher nutrient profiles.29
29
THE PEAT WHISPERER

The cholesterol contained in eggs has shown to be protective against unavoidable
environmental toxins.30
Cheese
Cheese is convenient, contains extremely low amounts of unsaturated fats and iron,
and can replace muscle meats for those with reduced digestive capability.
Commercial cheeses (even raw) can come prepackaged with cultures and enzymes
that may be allergenic. Securing cheese with milk, salt, and animal rennet is likely to be
high quality and better tolerated.
Cottage cheese can contain allergens like gums or carrageenan, which can disturb
the intestines causing an increase in serotonin.31
Refined Muscle Meats

Beef, lamb, and bison are easy-to-obtain rich sources of nutrients, saturated fats, and
protein. When balanced with calcium and gelatin, muscle meats transcend their
proinflammatory nature, supporting the metabolism.
Extra measures can be taken when consuming large amounts of muscle meats.
Gelatin, extra calcium, and iron-absorption inhibitors (coee and calcium) are a good
idea whenever consuming refined muscle meats.
Fowl, Pork, & High-Fat Fish

When compared to ruminants, dairy, shellfish, and gelatin, fowl, pork, and high-fat fish
contain larger amounts of unsaturated fats and are not nearly as nutrient-dense.
For the purposes of supporting oxidative energy and increasing the metabolic rate,
pork, fowl, and high-fat fish can be minimized or eliminated.
30
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Key Ideas
Double Edged Sword: Depending on the source, dietary protein can

support the metabolic rate or hinder it. Protein sources with an abundance of
calcium help support the metabolic rate, while sources with high phosphate,
low calcium, and high amounts of anti-metabolic amino acids (tryptophan,
cysteine, and methionine) can hinder it.
Estrogen Detoxification: The liver needs adequate protein (and b-vitamins)

for the removal of estrogen.
Sources of Protein: Besides evaluating the source of protein by its calcium

content, polyunsaturated fat (PUFA) content should also be considered.
Non-ruminants (chicken, turkey, pigs) contain more unsaturated fats than
beef, lamb, and bison. Fatty fish (salmon, herring) contains large quantities of
PUFA, making white low-fat fish more acceptable (sole, tilapia, cod).
Thyroid Hormone Production: Thyroxine (T4) is made from the

proteinaceous colloid in the neck and is transported around the body via
carrier proteins. Consuming adequate protein supports T4 production.
31
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Chapter References
1.Peat R. Gelatin, stress, longevity.
2.Williams, Roger. Nutrition Against Disease. Pitman Publishing Corporation: New York,
NY, 1971. p.78
3.Peat R. Blocking Tissue Destruction.
4.Peat R. Radio Show: Question and Answer Show.
9.Peat R. Tryptophan, serotonin, and aging
11.Barnes, Broda. Hope For Hypoglycemia. Fries Communications; Revised edition (June
1989) p.16
12.Peat R. Nutrition For Women. p.11
13. Peat R. From PMS to Menopause. p.7
14.Peat R. Eclampsia in the Real Organism: A Paradigm of General Distress Applicable in
Infants, Adults, Etc.
15.Peat R. Nutrition For Women. p.12
17.Peat R. KMUD Radio Interview: Milk
18.Peat R. Radio Interview. Ray Peat: Milk, Calcium, & Hormones
21.Peat R. The GABA system, defenses and tissues renewal
23.Peat R. The GABA system, defenses and tissues renewal
25.Nutrition Data: Oysters
26.Nutrition Data: Shrimp
27.Nutrition Data: Beef Liver
28.Nutrition Data: Eggs
29. Guyenet S. Whole Health Source: Pastured Eggs.
30. Peat R. Radio Interview: Cholesterol & Saturated Fat
32
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Obtain Pro-Thyroid Nutrients
Micronutrients, like macronutrients, influence a variety of hormonal and inflammatory

markers related to the metabolism. Vitamin and mineral ratios, as well as several hard to
get nutrients, can have a noticeable impact on all mood, libido, skin quality, appearance,
and ones resilience in the face of stress.
Vitamin A
When vitamin A is combined with thyroid (T3) and cholesterol, the result is the
mother pre-hormone, pregnenolone. From pregnenolone, the hormonal cascade begins
and can be broken down into various sex hormones.
Vitamin A and thyroid are so closely related that they ride around on the same protein
in the body (transthyretin). A deficiency of either can precipitate a deficiency of the other
33
THE PEAT WHISPERER

and ideally should be balanced (a higher metabolic rate will need more vitamin A and
vice versa).
Whereas estrogen promotes the shedding of skin cells, vitamin A opposes it.
Adequate levels of vitamin A can enable the skin cells to last longer without flaking o. 1
In too-large amounts, however, vitamin A can suppress the thyroid and depress levels
of other fat soluble vitamins (especially vitamin D).2
In addition, vitamin A can spare protein (allowing you to consume less),3 synergizes
with vitamin D, 4 promotes progesterone synthesis,5 aids in calcium metabolism,6 and is
anti-prolactin.7
When adopting any regimen that is designed to promote thyroid performance (diet or
supplementation), vitamin A (along with several other nutrients) will be needed in larger
amounts.8
Foods: liver, egg yolks, milk
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is fundamental in proper calcium absorption. Adequate Vitamin D, along
with calcium, suppress PTH and can influence the secretion of serotonin and prolactin.
9,10
Vitamin D has a strong relationship with vitamin A and consuming too much of either
can precipitate a deficiency in the other. While the sun is the best way to get vitamin D,
supplementation can be utilized if one lives in a cloudy area or does not have enough
time to suntan. Vitamin D status should always be considered with vitamins A and K.
Foods: sunlight, supplementation
Vitamin K
The vitamin made famous by Dr. Weston A. Price, vitamin K, has been found to be an
anti-estrogen, 11 facilitates calcium utilization12 and activates both vitamins A and D.
13
34
THE PEAT WHISPERER

In addition, vitamin K increases insulin sensitivity, 14 reverses arterial calcification,15
and strengthens bones.16
Foods: liver, egg yolks
Vitamin E
Vitamin E has been called the anti-sterility vitamin. Vitamin E opposes estrogen,17
protects against excess iron,18 decreases prolactin,19 and promotes progesterone.
Vitamin E can be utilized when experimenting with large doses of vitamin A, chronic
stress, or if excess iron is suspected or confirmed. Irons oxidative damage causes rapid
utilization of vitamin E, which can lead to low progesterone and unopposed estrogen.
Foods: egg yolks, liver
Calcium & Phosphate

When dietary calcium (or its cofactors) is deficient, parathyroid hormone (PTH)
increases in order to provide calcium from bone. An increase in parathyroid hormone
promotes the release of inflammatory messengers as well as the adaptive stress
hormones prolactin and serotonin.20-22
Dietary phosphate has an inverse relationship with dietary calcium. High intake of
high-phosphate foods (meat, grains) increases parathyroid hormone and is a large factor
influencing tryptophans metabolism into the beneficial B-vitamin niacin or the adaptive
stress hormone serotonin.23,24
Assuring a ratio of 1.5:1 (or higher) of calcium to phosphate can downregulate
inflammation, stress, and support the production of oxidative energy.
Foods: milk, cheese
Magnesium
Magnesium is a critical cofactor for calcium absorption. Deficiencies of magnesium
precipitate hyperparathyroidism (high PTH).25 In addition, magnesium promotes insulin
35
THE PEAT WHISPERER

sensitivity, 26 alleviates anxiety,27 and decreases the inflammatory messengers: TNF-a,
IL-6,28 and CRP. 29
Magnesium is highly deficient in the modern diet and is easily lost in those with low
metabolic rates.30,31
Foods: coee, milk, orange juice
Sodium
Sodium is an integral factor in reducing stress, absorbing magnesium,32 increasing
insulin sensitivity, maintaining serum albumin (binds estrogen and other toxins until they
are eliminated by the liver), and reducing serotonin.33
A lack of sodium can lead to the chronic activation of the renin-angiotensin-
aldosterone system, which suppresses the metabolic rate and promotes inflammation.34
Adequate salt intake can increase body temperature and decreases aldosterone,
adrenaline, and angiotensin.35
Additional salt in the diet may result in swelling for a few days while the body adjusts.
36 If swelling does not decrease (puy face in the morning), it may indicate elevated
estrogen or that the metabolic rate is still suppressed.37
Foods: canning/pickling salt
Potassium
Stress causes the body to waste nutrients, especially potassium, magnesium, and
sodium.38 Excessive loss of potassium, known as hypokalemia, has recently found to be
an independent predictor of diabetes.39
The mechanism may lay in potassiums insulinlike action that can escort glucose
into the cell without the aid of insulin.40
Foods: fresh orange juice, very-ripe-citrus and tropical fruits
36
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Zinc & Copper
Zinc and copper are crucial factors in the production and utilization of energy. Zinc
status influences the enzymatic conversion from T4 to T341 and helps facilitate the
transport, storage, and utilization of vitamin A.42
Copper is crucial the production of the mitochondrial enzyme cytochrome c oxidase,
which functions as the last step in the production of oxidative energy.43-45 A low
metabolic rate or high estrogen levels can inhibit the absorption and utilization of copper
while active thyroid hormone is needed for proper copper absorption. 46
Foods: oysters, liver, shrimp
Iron
Even a small elevation of iron can create oxidative stress, depletion of vitamin E, low
progesterone, low testosterone, low fatigue and general suppression of the metabolic
rate.47
Meat, shellfish, and liver are all sources of iron. Avoiding these foods can cause
deficiencies in other nutrients, so inhibiting the absorption of iron is warranted. This can
be achieved by consuming coee and calcium with iron-rich meals.48 Coee and calcium
have been found to inhibit absorption of iron, while vitamin C can increase the absorption
of iron.49
Foods: oysters, liver, red meat
Selenium
Selenium is a crucial nutrient for thyroid function,50,51 liver health,52 and the proper
functioning of the immune system.53 Selenium is consistently found to be deficient in the
diets of most Americans.54
Foods: eggs, beef liver, oysters
Vitamin C
The protective eects of vitamin C include aiding in the synthesis of progesterone,55
reducing stress,56 providing protection from excess iron,57 and making one less
susceptible to food allergies.58
37
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Fresh orange juice is an excellent source of vitamin C. Depending on how much is
consumed; 500-1000 milligrams can be attained in a single day.
Foods: orange juice, ripe-fruits
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
High amounts of tryptophan59 and estrogen suppress vitamin B6, disabling its pro-
dopamine, anti-prolactin eects. 60
Adequate B6 facilitates amino acid utilization,61 aids in calcium metabolism,24
supports the liver, increases the production of niacin from L-tryptophan, and helps
regulate the facilitation and use of glycogen.62
Foods: liver, egg yolk, milk
Dietary Cholesterol
When combined with vitamin A and thyroid, and cholesterol (LDL, or bad
cholesterol) becomes the mother pre-hormone pregnenolone.
Besides being fundamental in hormonal production, cholesterol acts as an
antioxidant63 and in animal models, Hans Selye demonstrated that toxic substances
could be made inert with the injection of cholesterol.64
In the presence of low thyroid, however, LDL is left to oxidize in the blood without
adequate thyroid hormone.65
Elevated levels of cholesterol may warrant an investigation of thyroid status due to its
physiological role in breaking it down.66
If low cholesterol is confirmed, fructose (and adequate vitamin A) is an excellent way
to increase cholesterol production and once again begin the hormonal cascade.67
Foods: egg yolk, liver, milk, cheese
38
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Key Ideas
Vitamin A: Special consideration should be given to vitamin A in the form of

retinol. Vitamin A is crucial for the production of all sex hormones and is so
intertwined with thyroid function that thyroxine (T4) and vitamin A share the
same protein (transthyretin). Signs of vitamin A deficiency can be poor night
vision, calluses on the palms and bottoms of the feet, acne, and dandruff.
Calcium Cofactors: Besides calciums role in supporting the metabolic rate

and suppressing numerous stress hormones, calciums cofactors are
essential for its absorption and utilization. Special consideration should be
given to vitamin D, vitamin K, and sodium.
Sodium: Similar to calcium, adequate sodium in the diet can support the
metabolic rate, increase the production of carbon dioxide, and suppress a
variety of stress hormones.
Cholesterol: Dietary cholesterol (liver, eggs, milk) protects the structure of

the cell, increases oxidative energy, and provides the raw material for
synthesis of sex hormones.
Copper: The crucial respiratory enzyme, cytochrome c oxidase, is

dependent on copper, thyroid, and light. Similar to vitamin A, increasing the
metabolic rate will require additional dietary copper.
Selenium: The deiodinase enzymes that convert thyroxine (T4) to

triiodothyronine (T3) depend on selenium and glucose for their conversion.
39
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Chapter References
1. Peat R. Blocking Tissue Destruction.
3. Ng KY, et al. Vitamin D and vitamin A receptor expression and the proliferative effects of ligand activation of these receptors on the development of pancreatic progenitor cells derived from
human fetal pancreas. Stem Cell Rev. 2011 Mar;7(1):53-63.
4. Peat R. Bone Density: First Do No Harm.
5. Peat R. Calcium and Disease: Hypertension, organ calcification, & shock, vs. respiratory energy.
7. Peat R. East West Healing Radio Show. Ray Peat: Glycemia, Starch, and Sugar in context!
8. Masterjohn C. Is Vitamin D Safe? Still Depends on Vitamins A and K! Testimonials and a Human Study.
9. Peat R. Preventing and treating cancer with progesterone.
10. Isaac R, et al. Effect of parathyroid hormone on plasma prolactin in man. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 1978 Jul;47(1):18-23.
11. Kato S, et al. A calcium-deficient diet caused decreased bone mineral density and secondary elevation of estrogen in aged male rats-effect of menatetrenone and elcatonin. Metabolism.
2002 Oct;51(10):1230-4.
12. Iwamoto J, et al. Effects of vitamin K2 administration on calcium balance and bone mass in young rats fed normal or low calcium diet. Horm Res. 2005;63(5):211-9. Epub 2005 May 9.
13. Masterjohn C. On the Trail of the Elusive X-Factor: A Sixty-Two-Year-Old Mystery Finally Solved.
14. Choi HJ, et al. Vitamin K2 supplementation improves insulin sensitivity via osteocalcin metabolism: a placebo-controlled trial. Diabetes Care. 2011 Sep;34(9):e147.
15. Guyenet S. Can Vitamin K2 Reverse Arterial Calcification?
16. Peat R. Vitamin E: Estrogen antagonist, energy promoter, and anti-inflammatory.
17. Peat R. Iron's Dangers.
18. Yeksan M, et al. Effect of vitamin E therapy on sexual functions of uremic patients in hemodialysis. Int J Artif Organs. 1992 Nov;15(11):648-52.
19. Benomar A, et al. Vitamin E deficiency ataxia associated with adenoma. J Neurol Sci. 1999 Jan 1;162(1):97-101.
21. Jorde R, et al. Relation between low calcium intake, parathyroid hormone, and blood pressure. Hypertension. 2000 May;35(5):1154-9.
22. Isaac R, et al. Effect of parathyroid hormone on plasma prolactin in man. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 1978 Jul;47(1):18-23.
23. Peat R. Radio Interview: Milk, Calcium, and hormones.
24. Peat R. Radio Interview: Question and Answer Show.
26. Kim DJ, et al. Magnesium intake in relation to systemic inflammation, insulin resistance, and the incidence of diabetes. Diabetes Care. 2010 Dec;33(12):2604-10. Epub 2010 Aug 31.
27. Fromm L, et al. Magnesium attenuates post-traumatic depression/anxiety following diffuse traumatic brain injury in rats. J Am Coll Nutr. 2004 Oct;23(5):529S-533S.
28. Weglicki WB, et al. Magnesium-deficiency elevates circulating levels of inflammatory cytokines and endothelin. Mol Cell Biochem. 1992 Mar 25;110(2):169-73.
29. Chacko SA, et al. Relations of dietary magnesium intake to biomarkers of inflammation and endothelial dysfunction in an ethnically diverse cohort of postmenopausal women. Diabetes Care.
2010 Feb;33(2):304-10. Epub 2009 Nov 10.
30. Jacka FN, et al. Association between magnesium intake and depression and anxiety in community-dwelling adults: the Hordaland Health Study. Aust N Z J Psychiatry. 2009 Jan;43(1):45-52.
31. Peat R. Diabetes, scleroderma, oils and hormones.
33. Peat R. Salt, energy, metabolic rate, and longevity.
35. Peat R. Salt, energy, metabolic rate, and longevity.
36. Peat R. Nutrition For Women. 1993 p.ii
37. Peat R. Nutrition For Women. 1993 p.i
39. Chatterjee R, et al. Serum and dietary potassium and risk of incident type 2 diabetes mellitus: The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study. Arch Intern Med. 2010 Oct 25;170(19):
1745-51.
41. Saper RB, Rash R. Zinc: an essential micronutrient. Am Fam Physician. 2009 May 1;79(9):768-72.
42. Higdon J. Linus Paulin Institute Vitamin A.
44. Peat R. Aging Eyes, Infant Eyes, and Excitable Tissues
45. Peat R. Generative Energy. p.84
49. Peat R. Caffeine: A vitamin-like nutrient, or adaptogen.
50. Calomme M, et al. Effects of selenium supplementation on thyroid hormone metabolism in phenylketonuria subjects on a phenylalanine restricted diet. Biol Trace Elem Res. 1995 Jan-Mar;
47(1-3):349-53.
51. Benton D. Selenium intake, mood and other aspects of psychological functioning. Nutr Neurosci. 2002 Dec;5(6):363-74.
52. Yu SY, Zhu YJ, Li WG. Protective role of selenium against hepatitis B virus and primary liver cancer. Qidong. Biol Trace Elem Res. 1997 Jan;56(1):117-24.
53. Rubin RN, et al. Relationship of serum antioxidants to asthma prevalence in youth. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2004 Feb 1;169(3):393-8. Epub 2003 Nov 20
54. Combs GF Jr. Selenium in global food systems. Br J Nutr. 2001 May;85(5):517-47.
59. Williams, Roger. Nutrition Against Disease. Pitman Publishing Corporation: New York, NY,1971 10017 p.78
60. Constance M. Physiology and Endocrinology. p.96, 717
61. Schoenfeld P. Vitamin B6, The Under-Appreciated Vitamin.
62. Higdon J. Linus Paulin Institute Vitamin B6.
63. Peat R. Cholesterol, longevity, intelligence, and health.
64. Peat R. Radio Interviewt: Cholesterol & Saturated Fats.
65. Masterjohn C. Genes, LDL-Cholesterol Levels, and the Central Role of LDL Receptor Activity In Heart Disease
66. Barnes B. Hypothyroidism: The Unsuspected Illness. Harper; 1 edition (January 1, 1976)
67. Peat R. Coconut Oil.
40
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Reduce Bacterial Endotoxin
Endotoxin (sometimes also called lipopolysacharide or LPS) is an internally created

toxin that resides in the lower intestine. In a stressed state, circulation is reduced
increasing the permeability of the intestine.
This can increase the absorption of endotoxin in the blood, which acts as a metabolic
burden to the liver, which produces 2/3 of the active thyroid hormone in the body.1 An
increase in endotoxin can synergize with and increase the eects of serotonin, histamine,
estrogen, and cortisol.2
Endotoxins suppression of the metabolic rate is multifaceted. It has been found to
decrease thyroid production,3 increase iron oxidation,4 decrease progesterone, increase
estrogen,5 burden the liver,6,7 suppress the immune system,8 and induce insulin
resistance.9,10
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THE PEAT WHISPERER

Ridding the body of endotoxin is neither possible nor the goal, but simply suppressing
its production by bacteria in the gut, inhibiting its absorption into the blood, and assuring
its residency in the large intestine, will decrease its destructive eects.
Endotoxin & Serotonin

Serotonin synergizes with estrogen and promotes prolactin, causing depression,
weight gain, and impotence.11-15
Serotonin is produced in the intestine; with a high concentration surrounding the
appendix.16 Serotonins main responsibility is performing contractions. Consuming
noxious food items causes the intestine to secrete large amounts of serotonin, causing
the gut to expel its contents, resulting in diarrhea or vomiting.
Endotoxin & Digestion

Chronic constipation increases the toxicity of endotoxin.17 Focusing on foods that
digest easily (in the upper part of the intestine) is desirable. Starches (legumes, grains)
may be prone to feeding harmful bacteria, due to their extended digestive period.
Fruit sugars, however, are digested high up in the intestine and are assimilated
quickly.18
Endotoxin & The Liver

Anything that stresses the liver, which converts 2/3 of thyroxine (T4) to
triiodothyronine (T3), suppresses the metabolic rate.19
The liver is normally is able to detoxify 100% of the estrogen in the body. In those with
increased levels of bacterial endotoxin, the liver is hampered and unable to function
adequately.20
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THE PEAT WHISPERER

Endotoxin & Sugar
It has been claimed that fructose is poorly absorbed in the gut, even though there is
conflicting evidence.21,22 While many may be sensitive to fructose, similar to lactose
intolerance, fructose malabsorption may be another manifestation of nutrient
deficiencies, chronic stress, and a lowered metabolism.
Endotoxin & Fiber

Dietary fiber, in most all forms can increase bacterial endotoxin.21-23 Those with poor
digestion and low thyroid are more susceptible to fermentation in the gut in the face of a
high-fiber meal.
A basic yet eective treatment for decreasing bacterial endotoxin is consuming a
single raw carrot a day. Unlike other vegetable fibers, carrots have strong antifungal
properties, which can be used similar to an antibiotic.23,24
43
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Key Ideas
Bacterial Endotoxin: Bacteria in the lower intestine are constantly

producing bacterial endotoxin. During stress, the intestines can become
permeable allowing for the absorption of endotoxin from the bowel into the
blood. Increased levels of endotoxin cause a systemic problem, especially for
the liver, which has to detoxify endotoxin. Endotoxin suppresses the livers
ability to convert thyroid hormones, can cause allergies, and promotes and
intensifies various adaptive stress hormones.
Antibiotic: Ridding the large intestine of endotoxin is not the goal, but
limiting the absorption of endotoxin is achievable by consuming an easily
digested diet, achieving a high metabolic rate, and consuming protective
fiber in the form of a raw carrot. Raw carrots have antibacterial, antifungal
properties that can decrease endotoxin in the large intestine. Similar to an
antibiotic, a carrot salad can have beneficial systemic effects.
Endotoxin & Fiber: Humans do not have digestive enzymes for fiber. When
dealing with a low metabolic rate, undigested fiber ends up in the large
intestine and can cause an increase in production of endotoxin. Opting for
very ripe fruits (or strained orange juice) and limiting starches and low calorie
vegetable matter can have a large impact on the production of endotoxin.
44
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Chapter References
2. Peat R. Epilepsy and Progesterone.
3. Endert E, et al. Neutralization of TNF does not influence endotoxin induced changes in thyroid hormone
metabolism in humans. Am J Physiol. 1999 Feb;276(2 Pt 2):R357-62.
4. Roth RI. Bacterial endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide) stimulates the rate of iron oxidation. J Endotoxin Res.
2000;6(4):313-9.
5. Peat R. Thyroid, insomnia, and the insanities: Commonalities in disease.
6. Wheeler MD. Endotoxin and Kupffer cell activation in alcoholic liver disease. Alcohol Res Health.
2003;27(4):300-6.
7. Wigg AJ. The role of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, intestinal permeability, endotoxaemia, and
tumour necrosis factor alpha in the pathogenesis of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. Gut. 2001 Feb;48(2):
206-11.
8. Fairweather D, Rose NR. Women and autoimmune diseases. Emerg Infect Dis. 2004 Nov;10(11):
2005-11.
9. Zeyda M, Stulnig TM. Obesity, inflammation, and insulin resistance--a mini-review. Gerontology.
2009;55(4):379-86. Epub 2009 Apr 8.
10.Trauner M, et al. Endotoxin impairs biliary glutathione and HCO3- excretion and blocks the choleretic
effect of nitric oxide in rat liver. Hepatology. 1997 May;25(5):1184-91.
11. Peat R. KMUD Friday Night Talk. Ray Peat Interview: Endotoxin
12. Peat R. Radio Interview. Serotonin and Endotoxin.
13. Peat R. KMUD Friday Night Talk. Ray Peat Interview: Serotonin, Endotoxin, & Stress.
16. Peat R. KMUD Friday Night Talk. Ray Peat Interview: Serotonin, Endotoxin, & Stress.
17. Peat R. Menopause and its causes
18. Peat R. KMUD Friday Night Talk. Ray Peat Interview: Endotoxin
21. Johnson, Richard J. The Sugar Fix. Pocket Books: New York, NY, 2008. p.136
22. J J Rumessen, et al. Absorption capacity of fructose in healthy adults. Comparison with sucrose and
its constituent monosaccharides. Gut. 1986 October; 27(10): 11611168.
23. Peat R. From PMS to Menopause. 1997. p.189
24. W.P. Davies, et al. Antifungal activity in carrot roots in relation to storage infection by mycocentrospora
acerina (hartig) Deighton. New Phytologist Vol. 89, No. 1, Sep., 1981
45
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Specifics
It is essential to note that the following are simply recommendations for
achieving a higher metabolic rate, low unsaturated fat intake, a high calcium to
phosphate ratio, high nutrient-density, and avoiding bothersome allergens.
These foods are not the only options and one can explore what he or she
needs to consume to feel best to support their metabolism.
Self-diagnostics and lab work will go particularly far in helping one support their
own unique needs and aspirations.
46
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Specifics
Key Ideas
High Intake of Sugars: Carbohydrate (more so than fat) in the form of

sugar (more so than starch) supports our highly evolved way of producing
energy called an oxidative metabolism.
Low Intake of Unsaturated Fats: Saturated fats support the metabolic

rate, whereas unsaturated fats inhibit it on every level.
High Protein Intake: Easily digested protein increases the clearance of

estrogen, decreases serotonin, and supports thyroid hormone production.
High Calcium/Phosphate Ratio: Calcium (and its cofactors) support the

metabolic rate, by suppressing inflammation, increasing carbon dioxide, and
decreasing several adaptive stress hormones.
Supplemental Foods For Micronutrients: Egg yolks, dark coffee, shrimp,

calamari, oysters, liver (beef or bison) are all examples of supplemental foods
rich in micronutrients (magnesium, copper, zinc, selenium, vitamin A, B-
vitamins).
A Focus on Easy-to-Digest Foods: Hard-to-digest foods can disturb the

intestine causing an increase in serotonin. Opting for soft, allergen-free foods
will suppress serotonin and various other adaptive stress hormones.
47
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Protective Foods
Pro-Thyroid Foods
Milk: pasteurized, ultrapasteurized, raw or lactose-free. Cow or goat; whatever is tolerated better.
Added vitamins (A, D) can cause intestinal issues in some.
Fresh orange juice: not from concentrate, no fillers, pasteurized or unpasteurized, but fresh is
usually best. Straining the orange juice, unless it is pulp-free, can help with digestion.
Eggs: source of vitamin A, zinc, and selenium. Go for soy-free pastured eggs if you can get
them. Save the shells to produce eggshell calcium.
Dark Coee: source of magnesium, vitamin B1, and caffeine. Can be used as a digestive aid and
an inhibitor of iron absorption. Coffee should always be consumed with a meal or with added fat
(heavy cream, coconut oil, butter) and sugar (simple syrup or honey).
Beef or bison liver: source of vitamin A, copper, B2, and B6. Grass-fed if you can get it.
Consuming liver once or twice a week provides a significant amount of vitamin A.
Oysters: source of zinc, copper, and selenium. Canned (in no oil or olive oilwhich can be rinsed
off) or fresh.
Cottage cheese: free of gums and carrageenan. Some can be sensitive to the lactic acid
content. If so, strain the cottage cheese, washing off excess liquid.
Cheese: containing milk, animal rennet, and salt (no cultures or enzymes, which can be
allergenic). Parmigiano Reggiano is usually the cleanest cheese.
Refined coconut oil: hypoallergenic, as opposed to virgin coconut oil, which can be allergenic.
Salt: canning/pickling salt is iron-free. Craving is an accurate guide, but experimentation with
different amounts is recommended (~1-3 teaspoons/day).
White sugar: made into a simple syrup added to milk. For those that are not willing to experiment
with white sugar, unheated honey is an option.
Oxtail soup: a delicious source of gelatin and numerous nutrients.
Misc. seafood: sole, whitefish, turbot, scallops, lobster, shrimp, and squid.
Misc. fruit: grapes, well-ripened watermelon, lychees, tangerines, and cherries.
48
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Problematic Foods
Anti-Thyroid Foods
Unsaturated oils: olive, soybean, safflower, canola, corn, fish, sesame, peanut, almond,
flaxseed, avocado, hemp, borage, evening primrose, and all supplemental oils.
Nuts: all of them.
Beans & Legumes: all of them.
Soy: lecithin, soybeans, soy protein, soymilk, tofu, tempeh.
Grains: all grains and flours.
Sugar Replacements: Splenda, NutraSweet, Aspartame, Xylitol, Stevia, Erythritol, etc.
Vegetables: low calorie vegetables (broccoli, spinach, cauliflower, asparagus, lettuce) and
vegetable juices. If digestion is weak, I would consider removing them from the diet for the sake of
experimentation. Vegetables contain unsaturated fatty acids, digestive inhibitors, and several other
anti-metabolic substances. Yes, I am suggesting that you avoid vegetables. Potatoes are benign if
cooked thoroughly (~1 hour or so), but I would still recommend sugars (fruit) over starch.
49
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Meal Ideas
Eggs - 1-2 eggs (cooked however you like), 8-32 oz. orange juice (more eggs, more orange
juice), 8-16 oz. milk, and 8-16 oz. coee.
Notes:
Milk is mixed with simple syrup and a salt (video).
If orange juice bloats you, try very fresh orange juice, or add a pinch of baking soda.
Additional simple syrup can be added to coee (however much you prefer) or orange
juice
Coconut oil or cream can be added to coee.
Orange is strained to avoid cellulose (food for bacteria) (video).
Milk can be consumed alone or with coee.
*Amounts can be modified this is just an example.
50
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Meal Ideas
Dr. Peats Carrot Salad - 1 grated raw carrot (shredded length wise). A few drops of
distilled white vinegar, a teaspoon (or more) of refined coconut oil, and some salt can be
added to enhance the germicidal properties of Dr. Peats famous carrot salad. (video)
Notes:
For the greatest eect, the carrot salad should be consumed between meals (usually after
breakfast). If it causes low blood sugar, try consuming the raw carrot 20-30 minutes before
a meal.
51
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Meal Ideas
Crab - 8 oz. wild canned crab (cooked in refined coconut oil or butter), 8-32 oz. orange
juice, 8-16 oz. milk, and 8-16 oz. coee.
Notes:
juice
52
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Meal Ideas
Shrimp - 8 oz. wild caught shrimp, 8-32 oz. orange juice, 8-16 oz. milk, and 8-16 oz. coee.
Notes:
juice.
53
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Meal Ideas
Canned Oysters - 3-6 oz. raw or canned oysters (cooked in refined coconut oil or butter),
8-16 oz. milk, and 8-16 oz. coee, 8-16 oz. of orange juice.
Notes:
All meat is cooked in refined coconut oil or butter and salted with Mortons canning
salt.
Oysters are high in iron, but consuming them with coee and calcium inhibit the
absorption.
juice
54
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Meal Ideas
Steak or Lamb - 8 oz. beef or lamb (grass-fed if economical) cooked to whatever your
prefer, 8-32 oz. orange juice, 8-16 oz. milk, and 8-16 oz. coee.
Notes:
salt.
absorption.
juice
55
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Meal Ideas
Oxtail Soup - 8 oz. oxtail cooked in water and salt slowly for 3-5 hours, 8-32 oz. orange
juice, 8-16 oz. milk, and 8-16 oz. coee.
Notes:
salt.
absorption.
juice
56
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Meal Ideas
Liver (Beef or Bison) - 4 oz. beef or bison liver (cooked in refined coconut oil or butter),
8-32 oz. orange juice, 8-16 oz. milk, and 8-16 oz. coee.
Notes:
salt.
absorption.
juice
57
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Meal Ideas
Fish (Sole) - 8 oz. sole fish, 8-32 oz. orange juice, 8-16 oz. milk, and 8-16 oz. coee.
Notes:
salt.
juice
58
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Meal Ideas
Milk & OJ (Snack) - 8-32 oz. orange juice, 8-16 oz. milk, and 8-16 oz. coee.
Notes:
59
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Meal Ideas
Cottage Cheese - 8 oz. of cottage cheese, 8-32 oz. orange juice, 8-16 oz. milk, and 8-16
oz. coee.
Notes:
juice
Orange juice can be avoided at night if it energizes you.
Meals heavier in fat will last longer and can usually be of benefit later in the day
suppressing nighttime stress hormones.
*Amounts can be modified, this is just an example.
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THE PEAT WHISPERER

Meal Ideas
Mozzarella Cheese - 8 oz. of mozzarella cheese, 8-32 oz. orange juice, 8-16 oz. milk, and
8-16 oz. coee.
Notes:
juice
Orange juice can be avoided at night if it energizes you.
Meals heavier in fat will last longer and can usually be of benefit later in the day
suppressing nighttime stress hormones.
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THE PEAT WHISPERER

Arbitrary Menu Plan
Mon Tue Wed Thur Fri Sat Sun
Breakfast Milk Milk Milk Milk Milk Milk Milk
Orange Juice Orange Juice Orange Juice Orange Juice Orange Juice Orange Juice Orange Juice
Coee Coee Coee Coee Coee Coee Coee
1-2 Eggs 1-2 Eggs 1-2 Eggs 1-2 Eggs 1-2 Eggs 1-2 Eggs 1-2 Eggs
Snack Carrot Salad Carrot Salad Carrot Salad Carrot Salad Carrot Salad Carrot Salad Carrot Salad
Lunch Milk Milk Milk Milk Milk Milk Milk

Coee Coee Coee Coee Coee Coee Coee
Liver Shrimp Oysters Oxtail Soup Lamb Low-Fat Fish Steak
Snack Milk Milk Milk Milk Milk Milk Milk

Dinner Milk Milk Milk Milk Milk Milk Milk

Cheese Cheese Cheese Cheese Cheese Cheese Cheese
Ice Cream Ice Cream Ice Cream Ice Cream Ice Cream Ice Cream Ice Cream
Q: Do I have to eat these meals exactly?

A: Absolutely not! This is not a rigid diet, just somewhere to start.
Q: Do I have to in timed intervals?

A: No, but one should consume food consistently throughout the day (2-3 meals) plus a
snacks until their ability to store glycogen is restored. Pulse and temperature should guide meal
frequency; low pulse/low temp people need to eat more often until they become well.
Q: Can I use spices?

A: Some may be sensitive to spices. Someone who is extremely sensitive (inflamed) may
want to experiment with salt for a while until things are under control.
Q: I really want dessert!

A: Filler-free ice cream can be consumed regularly if desired. In some cases, having ice
cream before bed can help with sleep as well as depress night time stress hormones.
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THE PEAT WHISPERER

Shopper
Milk (whatever is tolerated best) Cheese (milk, salt, and animal rennet)
Eggs (pastured if possible) Oysters (no oil added or olive oil)
Dark Coee (with food) Strained Orange Juice (fresh is usually best)
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THE PEAT WHISPERER

Shopper
Honey Refined Coconut Oil (less allergenic)
Ice Cream (no carrageenan or gums) White Sugar
Carrots Chocolate (no soy)
64
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Shopper
Ripe Watermelon Grapes
Misc. Citrus Fruits Fresh Mozzarella Cheese
Butter (salted or unsalted) Cottage Cheese (no carrageenan or gums)

can be strained to remove lactic acid
65
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Blood Tests
Valuable Tests Functional Range May Need/Indicate:
Whole Blood <25 High: Salt, calcium, thyroid, protein, sugar, antibiotic
Serotonin
Prolactin <4 High: Thyroid, salt, vitamin A, calcium, zinc
Estrogen N/A Estrogen tests are not accurate. Use prolactin, thyroid,
serotonin, and symptoms to estimate estrogen.
Free T3 Mid-Upper Range Low: Sugar, protein, saturated fats, thyroid
Free T4 Mid Range Low: Excess estrogen High: Missing cofactors (copper,
selenium, zinc)
Reverse T3 Low High: Sugar, protein, salt, thyroid, calcium
TSH <1 High: Thyroid, sugar, protein, saturated fats
PTH Low/Suppressed High: Calcium, vitamins D, A, K, salt, thyroid
Carbon Dioxide ~30 Low: Vitamin B1, calcium, thyroid, sugar, salt
Cholesterol (Total) 200-230 Low: Vitamin A, sugar High: Thyroid, sugar, protein, coconut
oil
Vitamin D 25(OH)D 50-70 Low: Vitamin D, sunshine
Ferritin 50-150 High: Anti-inflammatories, phlebotomy Low: Low thyroid
BUN 10-16 High: Salt need, too much protein
LDH 140-200 Low: B1, sugar,
Lactic Acid Low High: Sugar, protein, salt, vitamin B1, thyroid, calcium,
aspirin
Calcium 9.2-10.0 High: Calcium, calcium cofactors (vitamins A, D, K, salt,

copper)
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THE PEAT WHISPERER

Troubleshooting
White Sugar (Simple Syrup) - If one has low pulse (60/70s) and low body temperature
(cold hands, cold feet, cold nose), a simple solution may be to increase sugar consumption.
Sugar, salt, and protein are thermogenic and can increase thyroid performance. 8 oz. (one
cup) was used by P.A. Piorry in the 1800s to increase the metabolic rate of his patients.
Notes:
Sugar can be added to milk, coee, orange juice, etc.
1 tablespoon to 1 cup of pure white sugar can be used.
White sugar is not bleached in the refining process.
White sugar is hypoallergenic
Sugar can be boiled together with an equal amount of water to make a simple syrup to
dissolve the sugar.
When increasing the metabolism make sure you are fortifying your diet with supplemental
foods (liver, seafood), due to the increased demand for nutrients required by a higher
metabolic rate (especially vitamin A.)
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THE PEAT WHISPERER

Troubleshooting
Eggshell Calcium - 1/4-1/2 tsp. (~500-1000 mg of calcium) with each meal can help
balance the calcium/phosphate ratio, reduce inflammation, and increase the metabolic rate.
Both vitamin C and saturated fat increase calcium absorption.
Notes:
Eggshell calcium can be used when one is very allergic to dairy.
1/4-1/2 tsp. a few times per day (5-7,000 mg of calcium per day) is a good starting dose.
One could alter this dosage based on parathyroid hormone lab results and status of
calcium cofactors (salt, vitamin D, vitamin A, vitamin K, carbon dioxide).
The most economical way of producing eggshell calcium is making it at home. Save your
eggshells, boil them for 20 minutes, rinse them o, let them dry overnight, and grind them
into a powder.
I have not found a reseller for eggshell calcium in supplemental form.
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THE PEAT WHISPERER

Troubleshooting
Salt - Experimenting with dierent amounts of salt in the diet can have dramatic eects on
mood, libido, digestion, body temperature, estrogen levels, prolactin levels, serotonin levels,
anxiety, sleep, and energy.
Notes:
Consume salt ad libitum.
Salt can be added to milk, and covered up with simple syrup if one wishes to consume
larger amounts.
Some find they need 1-3 (or more) teaspoons a day of salt.
Canning & pickling salt is free of iron and is very pure.
Celtic & Himalayan salts contain iron and may contain heavy metals.
69
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Troubleshooting
Vitamin A - Vitamin A is needed in relation to thyroid status. The higher the metabolic rate
(pulse, body warmth) the more vitamin A is needed to avoid a deficiency. A lack of vitamin A
can have a variety of eects, such as night blindness, acne, keratosis pilaris (chicken skin),
lack of libido, dandru, dry skin, and leukoplakia (dry mouth, bad breath).
Notes:
Liver (beef or bison) is the best source of vitamin A. 4-8 oz. consumed once or twice a
week can provide a significant amount of vitamin A.
Those that have low cholesterol may have a vitamin A deficiency.
Supplement doses range from 5,000-100,000 IU per day.
Higher doses can suppress the thyroid. Vitamin A must be dosed with body temperature
and pulse in mind.
Additional light exposure (sunny day) requires additional vitamin A.
Adequate vitamin D levels can help protect from an overdosage of vitamin A.
70
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Troubleshooting
Vitamin D3 - Obtaining a vitamin D lab test and aiming for a level of somewhere between
~50-70 ng/dl seems reasonable for its anti-inflammatory properties and enhanced calcium
absorption qualities.
Notes:
Get your 25 (OH)D tested.
Beneficial eects of vitamin D can be obtained with a blood level of ~50 ng/dl.
Vitamin D should always be considered with vitamin A and vitamin K. Large amounts of
vitamin A will require more vitamin D and probably vitamin K.
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Troubleshooting
Vitamin E - Taking a small amount of vitamin E everyday oers protection from liberated
unsaturated free fatty acids. Similar to aspirin, vitamin E guards against some negative
eects of inflammatory prostaglandins and may be of use for those in a state of chronic
inflammation.
Notes:
A small amount of vitamin E every day (100-400 IU) oers additional protection from
unsaturated free fatty acids.
Vitamin E can reduce estrogen levels as well as prolactin levels.
Vitamin E should be used whenever one is taking large amounts of vitamin A.
A small dose of vitamin E can provide some protection when eating out (most all
restaurants use unsaturated fats for cooking).
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THE PEAT WHISPERER

Troubleshooting
Great Lakes Gelatin Hydrolysate - Great Lakes Gelatin is a high quality protein
supplement that can be mixed easily in orange juice, milk, or soups.
Notes:
Food is always best, but some have a dicult time consuming 100+ grams of protein per
day.
Gelatin can decrease intestinal inflammation and help with those with serious digestive
problems.
2-3 tablespoons dissolved in orange juice, milk, or coee a few times throughout the day
can be used in the place of animal protein.
Make sure it is dissolved thoroughly before consumption.
Anecdotally, a few body builders have told me that they really enjoy this product.
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THE PEAT WHISPERER

Troubleshooting
Great Lakes Gelatin - Great Lakes Gelatin is a high quality protein supplement that can be
added to soups or used to make desserts and candies. It does not mix as well as the
hydrolysate product.
Notes:
Some do not tolerate this gelatin. Make sure it is dissolved thoroughly in hot water before
consumption, but your mileage may vary.
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THE PEAT WHISPERER

Troubleshooting
Progest-E - Dr. Peats patented oral delivery for progesterone assures maximum absorption
without the toxic fillers found in other brands. While not a replacement for a sensible diet,
progesterone can help quickly overcome the negative eects of excess estrogen, cortisol,
aldosterone, prolactin, and serotonin.
Notes:
Requires a physician.
Progest-E (the only progesterone I recommend) can be purchased here.
Refer to Dr. Peats article, Progesterone Summaries for dosing.
Progesterone can be a strong anesthetic and may help with sleep.
Can be therapeutic for some men, but opposes testosterone in larger doses.
75
THE PEAT WHISPERER

Troubleshooting
Thyroid Supplement - Cynomel is triiodothyronine (T3), while Cynoplus is a combination of thyroxine

(T4) and T3. Dosing 1/8 (with food) of a tablet of Cynomel can be a quick way of evaluating the
eects of thyroid hormone. Over a span of ten days, if one feels positive eects of Cynomel (better
mood, more energy, awaking earlier, faster pulse, higher body temperature), one can explore taking
Cynomel more often, or explore a more balanced thyroid supplement like Cynoplus (longer lasting).
Notes:
Starting as low as possible is always better.
Thyroid supplementation is highly individual and takes commitment, a minimal understanding of
whats going on, and an experimental attitude towards ones health issues to proceed with
supplementation. Please be aware that only you, (by utilizing self diagnostics) will know when to
increase or decrease dosage.
Low pulse (60/70s or low body temperature: chronic cold hands, cold feet, and cold nose) can
sometimes warrant thyroid supplementation.
Thyroid supplementation greatly increases the need for all nutrients, especially vitamin A, copper,
selenium, b-vitamins, and zinc.
Cynomel can be broken up into 8ths, while Cynoplus can be broken up into 4ths.
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THE PEAT WHISPERER

Troubleshooting
Aspirin & Vitamin K - At birth, or when fat is heavily restricted, we produce our own pro-oxidative
energy, anti-inflammatory unsaturated fat called mead acid. Consuming unsaturated fats over time
causes the loss of our cells ability to produce mead acid. Salicylic acid, the main component of
aspirin can act as a surrogate for mead acid, increasing the metabolic rate, decreasing the synthesis
of prostaglandins (which increase estrogen via the aromatase enzyme) and increasing carbon dioxide
via the inhibition of the enzyme carbonic anhydrase.
Notes:
A starting dose of aspirin is one or two 325 mg tablets dissolved in hot water with food.
Like thyroid, aspirin supplementation is highly individual and takes commitment, a minimal
understanding of whats going on, and an experimental attitude towards ones health issues to
proceed with supplementation. Please be aware that only you, (by utilizing self diagnostics) will
know when to increase or decrease dosage.
Aspirin may be employed for more serious health conditions involving chronic pain, liver problems,
diabetes, or high levels of serotonin, estrogen, or prolactin.
Aspirin must be accompanied by vitamin K. 5-10 mg of vitamin K can allow one to avoid the blood
thinning properties of too much aspirin. Thorne and LEF both make high-quality vitamin K2
supplements.
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THE PEAT WHISPERER

FAQ
Q: I forgot everything... What do I need to do?
A: Heres the game plan:
a. Figure out whats going on: obtain labs, perform self-diagnostics (pulse, body
temp).
b. Adopt aspects of the pro-thyroid blueprint that make sense and are easy to
incorporate.
c. Utilize supplementation, if necessary. Experiment with things like salt and
calcium and monitor how you feel when you take them.
d. If further tweaking is required, adopt an experimental attitude and obtain blood
work from directlabs.com, privatemdlabs.com, or your primary physician.
e. If things are ever not working use this guide as a resource and become a
detective. Remember, no one (doctor, person on the internet) will be able to figure
out your health for you.
Q: How can I measure progress?

A: Hormonal homeostasis can be estimated by mood, susceptibility to stress,
dandru, skin quality, libido, puness, vascularity, satisfaction after orgasm, and
general inflammation of the joints.
Two simple self-diagnostics are pulse and body temperature:
Pulse rates consistent with a low metabolic rate average around 50-70 beats per
minute. Many notice a dramatic dierence when they achieve a pulse of 80 or
above.
Chronic cold hands, feet, and nose can indicate a suppressed metabolic rate.
Lowering stress hormones, especially adrenaline, and increasing thyroid can
alleviate these symptoms.
Excessive stress (especially adrenaline) can manipulate these numbers, so relying
on other clues (inflammation, pain, libido, mood, anxiety) can help distinguish
symptoms.
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THE PEAT WHISPERER
FAQ
Q: How much, protein, fat, and carbohydrate should I eat every day?
A: Macronutrient ratios dier wildly from person to person. In general, 80-100 grams
of protein (for athletes 1 gram of protein per lb. of bodyweight), 200 grams (or a lot more)
of carbohydrate, and the rest from saturated fats is an easy way of finding what works.
An increased load of carbohydrate should be experimented with anytime stress is
high. Strained fresh orange juice is an ideal carbohydrate source.
Additionally, pay attention to your tastes for sweet, salty, protein, and fat; these are
usually signals that the body is requiring them.
Cronometer.com is a great free tool to help you intermittently track food intake.
Q: Im lactose intolerant, what should I do?

A: Lactose intolerance can be the result of excessive inflammation, progesterone
deficiency, thyroid deficiency, protein deficiency, vitamin A deficiency, or a bacterial
infection.
Strategies for overcoming lactose intolerance include increasing the metabolic rate
(protein, calcium, salt, sugar, saturated fats), becoming vitamin A replete (liver or through
supplementation), experimenting with progesterone supplementation, experimenting with
pregnenolone supplementation, aspirin (with vitamin K), and consuming Dr. Peats carrot
salad regularly.
Another option is consuming lactose free milk. Strauss and Organic Valley both have
lactose-free milks that are of high quality.
Q: I have a very low sex drive, what should I do?

A: Increasing the metabolic rate (protein, calcium, salt, sugar, saturated fats),
becoming vitamin A replete (liver or through supplementation), adequate dietary
cholesterol (liver & eggs), adequate salt (1-3 teaspoons, sometimes more), calcium
(5-7,000 mg from dairy or eggshell calcium), adequate zinc (oysters, shellfish), and
adequate dietary sugar (orange juice, simple syrup, honey) can all increase libido.
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THE PEAT WHISPERER

FAQ
Q: I have chronic insomnia, what should I do?
A: Things that reduce adrenaline and parathyroid hormone are usually helpful.
Increasing the metabolic rate (protein, calcium, salt, sugar, saturated fats), consuming
enough calcium (5-7,000 mg throughout the day in the form of dairy and eggshell
calcium), salt (1-3 teaspoons, sometimes more), orange juice (and other sugars), and
thyroid supplementation can decrease adrenaline and parathyroid hormone.
A filler-free ice-cream (no gums, no carrageenan) can also help with sleep if
consumed before bedtime.
Q: My digestion is terrible (bloating, constipation, diarrhea), what should I do?

A: Increasing the metabolic rate (protein, calcium, salt, sugar, saturated fats),
experimenting with thyroid supplementation, vitamin A (liver or supplementation), salt
(1-3 teaspoons, sometimes more), zinc (oysters), copper (shellfish), aspirin (with vitamin
K), an antibiotic (Dr. Peats carrot salad), and calcium (5-7,000 mg throughout the day in
the form of dairy and eggshell calcium) can all reduce inflammation and increase
digestive capabilities.
Q: I have chronic acne (face or body), what should I do?

A: Increasing the metabolic rate (protein, calcium, salt, sugar, saturated fats), vitamin
A (liver or supplementation), salt (1-3 teaspoons, sometimes more), zinc (oysters a couple
of times a week), an antibiotic (Dr. Peats carrot salad every day), and calcium (5-7,000
mg throughout the day in the form of dairy and eggshell calcium) can all increase the
quality of the skin.
Vitamin A is most likely the limiting factor, but must be balanced with thyroid (diet or
supplementation). Increasing both vitamin A (5,000-100,000 IU) intake and the metabolic
rate (~85 pulse, overcoming cold intolerance) may be warranted if dealing with chronic
acne.
Additionally, vitamin A must be considered with both vitamin E and vitamin D status.
Dosing vitamin A based on acne and the metabolic rate, while obtaining a lab value for
vitamin D, and obtaining a small amount of vitamin E through supplementation (100-400
IU) should be helpful.
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THE PEAT WHISPERER

FAQ
Q: I have chronic depression (or anxiety), what should I do?
A: Increasing the metabolic rate (protein, calcium, salt, sugar, saturated fats), calcium
(5-7,000 mg throughout the day in the form of dairy and eggshell calcium), salt (1-3
teaspoons, sometimes more), an antibiotic (Dr. Peats carrot salad), vitamin D (get your
levels tested), and vitamin A (liver or supplementation) can all have an eect on mood
and ones outlook on life.
Q: My body temperature drops after a liquid meal, what should I do?

A: If your body temperature drops after a liquid meal this can be suggestive of a low
metabolic rate dominated by stress hormones.
If this regularly happens (after every meal), it may warrant experimentation with
additional salt/sugar consumption.
Additionally, consuming food more frequently until the liver is able to store glycogen
properly may be appropriate. Intermittent fasting will exacerbate this issue.
Q: Consuming that much protein is hard on my digestion, what should I do?

A: Gelatin can be used as a digestive aid if one is having trouble with animal proteins.
A benefit can usually be seen with 2-3 tablespoons dissolved in orange juice, milk, or
coee a couple times throughout the day.
Q: I want to lose weight. Shouldnt I burn fat for fuel?

A: At rest, the muscles burn fatty acids as a primary fuel source, so we are frequently
using fat as fuel except during very intense exercise.
However, using fat as a primary fuel (instead of carbohydrate) has many
undesirable eects, such as decreasing CO2, increasing adaptive stress hormones, and
decreasing the functionality of the liver and thyroid overtime.
Healthy weight loss can occur when the metabolism has been restored (high pulse &
body temperature) along with a reasonable caloric deficit.
Monitoring pulse, body temperature, and caloric consumption would be an intelligent
way to reduce weight.
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THE PEAT WHISPERER

FAQ
Q: Too much sugar gives people diabetes...
A: Adaptive stress hormones (that are rarely measured) and polyunsaturated fats are
responsible for a mishandling of blood sugar.
Sugar is used constructively (structure building/repair) in an organism with a high
metabolic rate.
Q: What kind of exercise is best?

A: If youre very stressed (poor sleep, poor libido, reduced digestive function) and you
engage in frequent exercise, you may be making things worse. If you enjoy exercise and
are healthy, weight lifting is better than cardio.
Q: How do I intermittent fast on The Pro-Thyroid Blueprint?

A: Those that are healthy (high pulse, high body temperature) can store glycogen
eciently and can go long periods without food. The same cannot be said for those who
are under chronic stress and have already developed issues (poor sleep, poor libido,
reduced digestive function, etc.).
Fasting in the presence of low liver glycogen causes the release of free fatty acids,
which further suppress the metabolism and antagonize stress hormones.
Q: How long will it take to restore oxidative energy?

A: This depends on how saturated the tissues are with unsaturated fats. Sometimes a
thyroid supplement is warranted until the liver has a chance to detoxify the unsaturated
fats, which are constantly inhibiting the metabolic rate.
Q: I have a chronically stued up nose.

A: This may be from poor digestion or a food allergen. Experimenting with salt (1-3
teaspoons per day), gelatin, and a daily carrot salad can sometimes correct this issue.
Q: I have orange calluses on the bottom of my feet and on my palms.

A: You may have a low thyroid and/or vitamin A deficiency.
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FAQ
Q: I have a lot of gray hair, what does that mean?
A: Gray hair is associated with copper deficiency and excess of tryptophan and
serotonin. Increasing thyroid function and dietary copper can sometimes reverse this
symptom (oysters, liver, shrimp).
Q: How do I eat out?

A: One can obtain meat, milk, and fruit almost anywhere. Red meat, white fish,
seafood, orange juice, coee, and eggs are some options when eating out.
Restaurants will undoubtedly use unsaturated oil when cooking, so grilled meat is
always a good choice. If you cannot avoid unsaturated oils in the food, taking an extra
dose of vitamin E will oset some of the eects.
Q: Do I have to get blood work?

A: No, but I strongly recommend it. Labs can help one avoid frustration and confusion
for a small investment.
Q: What is your opinion of ____ supplement?

A: Besides the supplements listed, I suggest using food as a supplement.
Q: What is your opinion of ____ food?

A: What is the unsaturated fat content (nutritiondata.com)? Is it nutrient-dense? Does
it stimulate the metabolism? Is it a vegetable? Does it contain a lot of fiber?
These are all questions that can be answered with minimal investigation.
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Resources
Ray Peat PhD (www.raypeat.com)
How to make eggshell calcium video
How to strain orange juice
How to make the anti-stress milk mix
How to make a carrot salad
Vitamin A - Nutrisorb
Vitamin E - A. C. Grace Unique E
Vitamin D3 - Carlsons
Progest-E Complex (Progesterone)
Gelatin Hydrolysate (Green Bottle) - Great Lakes Gelatin
Salt - Mortons Canning Salt
Personalized One-To-One Coaching
84
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The Peat Whisperer
Copyright
This publication is protected under the US Copyright Act of 1976 and all other
applicable international, federal, state and local laws, and all rights are reserved,
including resale rights: you are not allowed to give or sell this Guide to anyone
else. If you received this publication from anyone other than dannyroddy.com,
you've received a pirated copy. Please contact us via e-mail at support at
dannyroddy.com and notify us of the situation. Please note that much of this
publication is based on personal experience and anecdotal evidence. Although the
author and publisher have made every reasonable attempt to achieve complete
accuracy of the content in this guide, they assume no responsibility for errors or
omissions. Also, you should use this information as you see fit, and at your own
risk. Your particular situation may not be exactly suited to the examples illustrated
here; in fact, it's likely that they won't be the same, and you should adjust your use
of the information and recommendations accordingly. Any trademarks, service
marks, product names or named features are assumed to be the property of their
respective owners, and are used only for reference. There is no implied
endorsement if we use one of these terms. Finally, use your head. Nothing in this
Guide is intended to replace common sense, legal, medical or other professional
advice, and is meant to inform and entertain the reader.
Copyright 2012 Danny Roddy. All rights reserved worldwide.
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The information provided in this guide should not be construed

Readers should consult appropriate health professionals on

The information and opinions provided here are believed to be

Use of the programs, advice, and other information contained

Your health is in your own hands.

I began researching physiology after stumbling

Adaptive Stress Hormones - Cortisol, adrenaline, estrogen, serotonin, aldosterone, and

Mitochondria - Structure of the cell where energy is produced.

THE PEAT WHISPERER

Competing Theories of Degeneration

THE PEAT WHISPERER

The Youthful Metabolism (High Metabolic Rate)

THE PEAT WHISPERER

The Stressed Metabolism (Low Metabolic Rate)

THE PEAT WHISPERER

THE PEAT WHISPERER

Serotonin & Endotoxin

THE PEAT WHISPERER

Prolactin & Parathyroid Hormone (PTH)

THE PEAT WHISPERER

The Pro-Thyroid Blueprint

THE PEAT WHISPERER

The Youthful Metabolism (High Metabolic Rate): Healthy mitochondria consume

The Stressed Metabolism (Low Metabolic Rate): Overtime, environmental factors

The Adaptive (Stress) Hormones: Adrenaline, cortisol, serotonin, estrogen, parathyroid

THE PEAT WHISPERER

THE PEAT WHISPERER

Pro-Thyroid Blueprint Suggestion #1

In the context of an oxidative metabolism, sugar is used constructively, energizing

Sugar & Stress

THE PEAT WHISPERER

When glucose cannot be utilized or is in short supply, more cortisol is produced to

Sugar & Carbon Dioxide (CO2)

Sugar & The Liver

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THE PEAT WHISPERER

Starch (Potatoes, Rice, etc.)

THE PEAT WHISPERER

Grains (Wheat, etc.)

Brown Sugar, Maple Syrup, Molasses & Honey

THE PEAT WHISPERER

Sugar is Anti-Stress: Running on fatty acids is a feature of old age and

Sugar Supports CO2 Production: Carbon dioxide is integral for delivering

Fructose: Fructose enhances the production of carbon dioxide, can be

Starch: When compared to sugar (fruit), starch has drawbacks such as

Vegetables: When compared to sugar, low-calorie vegetable matter pose

THE PEAT WHISPERER

THE PEAT WHISPERER

Pro-Thyroid Blueprint Suggestion #2

THE PEAT WHISPERER

Essential Fatty Acid Deficiency

THE PEAT WHISPERER

Flax & Fish Oils

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Unsaturated Fats: The degree of unsaturation depends on the amount of

THE PEAT WHISPERER

THE PEAT WHISPERER

Pro-Thyroid Blueprint Suggestion #3

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THE PEAT WHISPERER

Refined Muscle Meats

Fowl, Pork, & High-Fat Fish