Scott Laird, ND

"The Skinny on Fat"

Summary of Presentation/Member Attendee Notes 

This lecture comprehensively addressed 34 key topics related to dietary fat, debunking longstanding misconceptions and providing evidence-based guidance for optimal health. Major themes included the historical context of fat-phobia, the metabolic advantages of fat adaptation, the significance of blood biomarkers, distinctions among fat types, and the impact of omega-3/6 ratios on inflammation and disease risk. Practical recommendations covered dietary modification strategies, brand and supplement choices, and adaptations for allergies and hormone health. Audience Q&A provided actionable tips and clarified common concerns, ensuring participants left with clear, science-backed steps for improving metabolic, cognitive, and overall well-being.

Introduction and Historical Misconceptions about Dietary Fat

Key Concepts

• In the 1980s, fat was widely feared, leading to the popularity of low-fat products and substitutes like aspartame.

• The sugar industry ("big sugar") heavily influenced public opinion, promoting fat as unhealthy through propaganda and shaping dietary guidelines.

• The food pyramid originally emphasized grains; recent updates (e.g., by RFK and team) now place dietary fat at the top, reflecting a shift in recommendations.

• Societal beliefs diverged from traditional eating patterns, raising questions about why previous generations thrived on higher-fat diets.

Macronutrients, Fuel Sources, and Fat Adaptation

Key Concepts

• The body uses fat and sugar (carbohydrates) as primary fuels; protein is for tissue repair.

• Sugar burns quickly, causing spikes in blood sugar and insulin; fat burns slowly, providing stable energy.

• Fasting depletes sugar stores, leading to ketosis (fat burning and ketone production).

• Fat adaptation results in easier fasting, stable mood, and reduced inflammation; sugar addiction causes cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

• Insulin, A1C, and triglycerides are key metabolic markers.

• Short, medium, and long-chain fatty acids have distinct roles; MCTs (from coconut oil) promote ketone production.

• Omega-6 promotes inflammation; omega-3 is anti-inflammatory. Optimal ratio is 3:1.

• ADEK vitamins require fat for absorption.

• The brain prefers ketones; high sugar intake increases dementia risk.

• Recent studies link higher cholesterol and fat intake to lower dementia risk.

Scientific Evidence

• Fat adaptation improves energy and reduces hunger.

• Optimal A1C: 4.5–5.2; high triglycerides linked to sugar, not fat.

• 2025 study: Omega-6 activates mTORC1, driving cancer.

• 2024 meta-analysis: Diabetes increases dementia risk.

• 2023 Framingham Cohort: High cholesterol intake lowers dementia risk.

• Swedish cohort: High-fat dairy reduces dementia risk.

• Mount Sinai: Higher cholesterol slows cognitive decline.

Practical Recommendations

• Lower carbohydrates, increase healthy fats for fat adaptation.

• Avoid hydrogenated oil and seed oils; prefer minimally processed fats.

• Take ADEK vitamins with fat-containing meals.

• Pair D3 with K2 for bone and cardiovascular health.

• Support brain and hormone health by prioritizing fat and monitoring cholesterol.

Audience Q&A Highlights

• Kerrygold butter and Kirkland recommended for grass-fed butter.

• Avocado oil and beef tallow for high-heat cooking; olive oil for cold use.

• Cod liver oil best with meals.

• Cold turkey diet changes can rapidly improve A1C.

• A2 butter, goat, and sheep cheese for dairy allergies.

• Life Extension DHEA for testosterone support.

• Plant-based diets may lack sufficient fat and cholesterol.

• Reduce high omega-6 oils to lower inflammation.

• Sardines healthy, but avoid canola oil; cod liver oil less processed.

Blood Tests and Biomarkers: A1C, Insulin, Triglycerides

Key Concepts

• Fat and sugar are main fuels; fat is cleaner, sugar causes spikes.

• Ketosis occurs during fasting or low-carb intake.

• A1C measures average blood sugar over 90–120 days; fasting insulin is a critical but often overlooked marker; triglycerides indicate metabolic dysfunction.

Scientific Evidence

• Optimal A1C: 4.5–5.2; high triglycerides linked to sugar/refined carbs.

• Insulin resistance increases risk for diabetes, heart disease, and dementia.

• Type 3 diabetes refers to Alzheimer's linked to brain insulin resistance.

• Excess sugar forms triglycerides, driving harmful LDL.

• 2024 meta-analysis: Diabetes increases dementia risk.

• 2023 Framingham Cohort: High cholesterol intake lowers dementia risk.

• Swedish study: High-fat dairy reduces dementia risk.

• Mount Sinai: Higher cholesterol slows cognitive decline.

Practical Recommendations

• Request fasting insulin and A1C tests; track triglycerides.

• Aim for optimal ranges, not just "normal."

• Lower sugar/refined carbs to improve insulin sensitivity and triglycerides.

• Fat adaptation stabilizes blood sugar and improves clarity.

• Consistency is key; improvements may take months.

Audience Q&A Highlights

• Example: A1C reduced from 9.9 to 4.9 in four months.

• Monitor biomarkers every 3–6 months.

• Type 3 diabetes clarified as Alzheimer's.

• High triglycerides driven by sugar, not fat.

• Cold turkey elimination of sugar/refined carbs improves markers.

• Higher cholesterol may protect cognitive health.

Types of Dietary Fats: Saturated, Monounsaturated, Polyunsaturated, Hydrogenated

Key Concepts

• Saturated fat: Fully hydrogenated, solid at room temp, longest shelf life, highly stable (e.g., butter, coconut oil, beef tallow).

• Monounsaturated fat: One double bond, liquid at room temp, moderate shelf life (e.g., olive oil, avocado oil).

• Polyunsaturated fat: Multiple double bonds, liquid, most prone to rancidity (e.g., canola oil, soybean oil).

• Hydrogenated fat: Artificially saturated, creates trans fats, chemically stable but unhealthy (e.g., hydrogenated oil, margarine).

Scientific Evidence

• Degree of saturation affects stability and shelf life.

• Unsaturated fats oxidize easily; hydrogenated fats create unnatural trans fats.

Practical Recommendations

• Prefer saturated and monounsaturated fats for stability.

• Avoid hydrogenated fats due to health risks; check labels.

Audience Q&A Highlights

• Saturated fats last longer due to molecular structure.

• Hydrogenated fats are unhealthy because they create trans fats.

• Fat stability depends on saturation level.

Cooking Oils: Smoke Points and Best Practices

Key Concepts

• Smoke point: Temperature at which oil degrades and loses benefits.

• Solid-at-room-temp oils (coconut oil, beef tallow, butter) recommended for cooking.

• Avocado oil has a very high smoke point; ideal for high-heat.

• Olive oil has a low smoke point; use only for cold applications.

Scientific Evidence

• High smoke point oils withstand heat; low smoke point oils degrade quickly.

Practical Recommendations

• Use coconut oil, beef tallow, butter, or avocado oil for high-heat.

• Use olive oil for salads and dips.

• Never let oils smoke; discard if overheated.

Audience Q&A Highlights

• Olive oil not suitable for frying/sautéing.

• Discard oil if it starts smoking.

Fatty Acids: Short, Medium, and Long Chain

Key Concepts

• SCFAs (<6 carbons): Found in butter, support gut health.

• MCFAs (6–12 carbons): Lauric acid in coconut oil and breast milk; rapidly absorbed, promote ketones, antimicrobial.

• LCFAs (>12 carbons): Omega-3/6, found in animal foods, fish, seeds, nuts, vegetable oils; structural and inflammatory roles.

Scientific Evidence

• SCFAs feed gut bacteria; MCFAs support ketosis and immunity; LCFAs regulate inflammation.

• Hexane-extracted seed oils high in omega-6 increase inflammation and disease risk.

• Recent studies: High cholesterol and dairy intake lower dementia risk; linoleic acid activates mTORC1 (cancer risk); triglycerides linked to sugar intake.

Practical Recommendations

• Prefer natural fats: butter, tallow, ghee, coconut oil, avocado oil, olive oil, fish oil, eggs.

• Avoid hexane-extracted seed oils.

• Balance omega-3/6 intake.

• Take ADEK vitamins with fat.

• Use ox bile powder enzymes if lacking gallbladder.

• A2 butter, goat/sheep cheese for dairy allergies.

• Raw milk may be better tolerated.

• Cold turkey transition for rapid improvement.

Audience Q&A Highlights

• Kerrygold butter and Kirkland recommended.

• Avocado oil and beef tallow for cooking; olive oil for cold use.

• Organic, cold-pressed coconut oil preferred.

• Cod liver oil with meals.

• Dairy alternatives: A2 butter, goat/sheep cheese.

• DHEA and exercise for testosterone support.

• Rapid dietary change yields health improvements.

Coconut Oil and MCT Oil: Health Benefits

Key Concepts

• Coconut oil is rich in MCTs, rapidly absorbed and converted to ketones for brain energy.

• Contains lauric acid, also found in breast milk, supporting immunity.

• MCT oil reduces blood sugar, enhances nutrient absorption, may aid athletic performance and weight management.

Scientific Evidence

• MCTs support sustained energy, appetite control, and may have anti-convulsive effects.

• Fat provides 9 calories/gram, contributing to satiety.

Practical Recommendations

• Use coconut oil and MCT oil for metabolic and cognitive support.

• Lauric acid benefits immunity and development.

• Monitor portion sizes due to caloric density.

Audience Q&A Highlights

• Coconut oil healthier due to MCTs and lauric acid.

• MCT oil may help brain health; more research needed.

• Breast milk contains beneficial fats not found in formula.

Grass-Fed Butter and Animal Products: Nutritional Value

Key Concepts

• Grass-fed animals produce higher-quality meat and dairy, rich in B12, omega-3s, ADEK vitamins, and antioxidants.

• Feedlot-raised animals lack these nutrients.

• Grass-fed butter contains butyric acid, CLA, and vitamin K2, supporting bone and cardiovascular health.

Scientific Evidence

• Meta-analyses and cohort studies show high-fat dairy and cholesterol intake lower dementia risk.

• mTORC1 study links omega-6 seed oils to cancer, not grass-fed animal fats.

Practical Recommendations

• Choose grass-fed butter and beef (Kerrygold butter, Kirkland, Walmart, Aldi, Sam's Club, Costco).

• Pair ADEK vitamins with meals.

• Avoid hydrogenated oil and seed oils.

• Low-carb intake supports fat adaptation.

• Cod liver oil for omega-3s and vitamin D.

Audience Q&A Highlights

• Kerrygold butter and Kirkland recommended.

• Avocado oil and beef tallow for cooking.

• Cod liver oil with meals.

• Cold turkey removal of processed oils effective.

• Ox bile powder for gallbladder issues.

• A2 butter, goat/sheep cheese for sensitivities.

• Sardines healthy, avoid canola oil.

• Cholesterol supports cognitive health.

• Balanced inclusion of animal products recommended.

Fat-Soluble Nutrients: ADEK

Key Concepts

• ADEK (A, D, E, K) vitamins require fat for absorption and are stored in body tissues.

• Vitamin A supports thyroid and cardiovascular health.

• Vitamin D3 essential for calcium absorption; K2 directs calcium to bones/teeth.

• Butter is a rich source of A, D, and K2.

Scientific Evidence

• D3 increases calcium absorption; K2 prevents soft tissue calcification.

• Natural sources provide vitamins with cofactors.

Practical Recommendations

• Take ADEK vitamins with fat-containing meals.

• Pair D3 with K2; combined supplements usually have correct ratios.

• Prefer natural sources like butter.

Audience Q&A Highlights

• ADEK vitamins should be taken with meals for absorption.

• D3 without K2 may cause calcium buildup in soft tissues.

• Natural sources better than supplements.

Omega-3 vs. Omega-6 Fatty Acids and Inflammation

Key Concepts

• Omega-3s are anti-inflammatory; omega-6s are pro-inflammatory when excessive.

• Optimal omega-6/omega-3 ratio is 3:1; Western diets often 10:1 or 20:1.

• Omega-6s (linoleic acid) from seed oils activate mTORC1, linked to cancer.

• Omega-3s from fish, cod liver oil, grass-fed products support brain and joint health.

Scientific Evidence

• 2025 study: Omega-6 activates mTORC1 via FABP5, driving cancer.

• Meta-analysis: Diabetes increases dementia risk.

• Framingham Cohort: High cholesterol lowers dementia risk.

• Swedish study: High-fat dairy reduces dementia risk.

Practical Recommendations

• Eliminate/reduce seed oils (canola, soybean, sunflower, corn, safflower, cottonseed, peanut, hydrogenated oil).

• Use butter, coconut oil, avocado oil, beef tallow, extra virgin olive oil.

• Increase omega-3-rich foods.

• Cod liver oil recommended for inflammation and brain health.

Audience Q&A Highlights

• Kerrygold butter and Kirkland recommended.

• Walmart offers organic coconut oil.

• Cod liver oil with meals; effective for dry eyes.

• Cold turkey removal of unhealthy fats effective.

• A2 butter, goat/sheep cheese for allergies.

• Sardines healthy, avoid canola oil.

• Plant-based and animal-based fats both beneficial if sourced well.

Hexane Extraction of Seed Oils: Health Risks

Key Concepts

• Hexane extraction uses a toxic solvent to obtain oil from seeds.

• All discussed seed oils are extracted with hexane.

Scientific Evidence

• Hexane is highly toxic; its use raises health concerns.

• Oils requiring toxic chemicals for extraction may not be suitable for regular consumption.

Practical Recommendations

• Avoid seed oils extracted with hexane.

• Critically evaluate the necessity of consuming such oils.

Audience Q&A Highlights

• Question raised about the appropriateness of consuming oils requiring toxic extraction.

Recent Research: mTORC1 Activation and Cancer Risk

Key Concepts

• mTORC1 regulates cell growth; its activation increases cancer risk.

• Omega-6 linoleic acid from seed oils activates mTORC1 via FABP5.

• Triple negative breast cancer is aggressive and linked to this pathway.

Scientific Evidence

• 2025 study: Dietary omega-6 activates mTORC1, driving cancer proliferation.

Practical Recommendations

• Avoid seed oils high in omega-6 to reduce mTORC1 activation risk.

• Focus on fats with lower omega-6 content.

Audience Q&A Highlights

• Triple negative breast cancer defined.

• mTORC1 activation drives cell proliferation.

• Not all fats pose the same risk; omega-6 highlighted.

Cod Liver Oil: Health Benefits and Usage

Key Concepts

• Cod liver oil is nutrient-rich; lemon-flavored liquid forms are palatable.

• Liquid form preferred for absorption and versatility.

Scientific Evidence

• Reduces inflammatory bowel disease, joint pain, supports bone/eye health, mood, immune system, and lowers osteoporosis risk.

• Prevents type 1 diabetes in children; promotes skin and muscle recovery.

• Supports alkalinity, preserving bone calcium.

Practical Recommendations

• Choose lemon-flavored liquid cod liver oil (e.g., Carlson Laboratories).

• Use as salad dressing with balsamic vinegar.

• Store in refrigerator; flavor remains stable.

• Incorporate into an alkaline-focused diet.

Audience Q&A Highlights

• Lemon-flavored cod liver oil does not taste fishy.

• Can be used in salads.

• Liquid form better than capsules.

• Helps with depression and immune health.

Alzheimer's Disease as Type 3 Diabetes: Sugar and Brain Health

Key Concepts

• Alzheimer's is called "type 3 diabetes" due to brain insulin resistance.

• Excess sugar/carbohydrate intake increases risk.

• The brain may function better on fat than sugar.

Scientific Evidence

• Insulin resistance in the brain impairs glucose metabolism, contributing to Alzheimer's.

Practical Recommendations

• Limit sugar and refined carbohydrates.

• Consider increasing healthy fat intake for brain health.

Audience Q&A Highlights

• Alzheimer's called type 3 diabetes due to insulin resistance.

• Avoid excess sugar for brain health.

• Brain may prefer fat as fuel.

Cholesterol, Dairy, and Dementia Risk: Recent Studies

Key Concepts

• Fat and cholesterol historically misunderstood; fat is a stable energy source.

• Saturated fats' health impact depends on source.

• Cholesterol essential for cellular and brain health.

• Omega-3/6 ratio affects inflammation and dementia risk.

Scientific Evidence

• 2024 meta-analysis: Diabetes increases dementia risk.

• 2023 Framingham Cohort: High cholesterol intake lowers dementia risk.

• 2024 Swedish study: High-fat dairy reduces dementia risk.

• Mount Sinai: Higher cholesterol slows cognitive decline.

• High triglycerides linked to sugar, not fat.

• Omega-6 seed oils activate mTORC1 (cancer risk).

Practical Recommendations

• Favor grass-fed butter (Kerrygold butter, Kirkland), coconut oil, beef tallow, olive oil (cold use), avocado oil (cooking).

• Avoid hydrogenated oil and seed oils.

• Increase omega-3 sources; reduce omega-6-rich oils.

• Prefer grass-fed, high-fat dairy; A2 butter/goat/sheep cheese for allergies.

• Lower sugar/refined carbs; aim for optimal A1C and fasting insulin.

• Take D3 with K2; cod liver oil for eye/brain health.

Clarifying Misconceptions

• Fat and cholesterol do not inherently increase dementia risk.

• Sugar/refined carbs are primary drivers of metabolic dysfunction.

• Low cholesterol can be harmful, especially in older adults.

• Source and processing of fats matter.

Audience Q&A Highlights

• Kerrygold butter and Kirkland recommended.

• Avocado oil and beef tallow for cooking.

• Cod liver oil with meals.

• Coconut oil and A2 butter for allergies.

• Raw milk may be better tolerated.

• Life Extension DHEA and bioidentical hormones for hormone health.

• Plant-based and animal fats both healthy if sourced well.

• High triglycerides from sugar, not fat.

• Higher cholesterol may protect cognitive health.

Triglycerides, Sugar, and Metabolic Dysfunction

Key Concepts

• Triglycerides are blood fats; elevated levels signal metabolic dysfunction.

• Excess sugar/refined carbs, not dietary fat, drive high triglycerides.

• Liver converts excess sugar to fatty acids, forming triglycerides and VLDL.

• VLDL drives small, dense LDL (harmful when oxidized).

• High triglycerides often accompany insulin resistance.

Scientific Evidence

• High triglycerides can occur on low-fat, high-carb diets.

• Plant-based diets high in packaged foods may raise triglycerides.

Practical Recommendations

• Limit refined carbs and added sugars.

• Monitor triglyceride levels in cholesterol tests.

Audience Q&A Highlights

• High triglycerides possible on low-fat diets if carbs are excessive.

• Main driver is sugar/refined carbs.

• Liver converts excess sugar to triglycerides.

• Only small, dense, oxidized LDL is harmful.

Dietary Modification: Cold Turkey Approach

Key Concepts

• Cold turkey involves immediate, comprehensive dietary change.

• Recommended for rapid improvement in metabolic health, especially diabetes.

• Eliminating problematic foods breaks cycles of addiction and dysfunction.

• Fat adaptation is the goal.

Scientific Evidence

• High-fat, low-carb diets improve metabolic markers and reduce dementia risk.

• Studies show high-fat dairy lowers dementia risk; higher cholesterol slows cognitive decline.

• Excess sugar/refined carbs drive triglycerides and metabolic syndrome.

• Omega-6-rich seed oils linked to inflammation and neurotoxicity.

• Fat adaptation leads to stable energy and clarity.

Practical Recommendations

1. Remove all unhealthy fats and refined carbs from pantry.

2. Read labels; avoid hydrogenated oil and seed oils.

3. Replace with healthy fats: Kerrygold butter, Kirkland, coconut oil, avocado oil, olive oil, beef tallow, ghee, fish oil, eggs.

4. Commit fully; avoid exceptions.

5. Monitor progress; consult professionals if needed.

Additional Tips

• Coconut oil, avocado oil, A2 butter for dairy allergies.

• Ox bile powder enzymes for gallbladder removal.

• Grass-fed/organic sources preferred.

• Goat/sheep cheese for cow's milk sensitivity.

Audience Q&A Highlights

• Kerrygold butter and Kirkland recommended.

• Avocado oil and beef tallow for cooking.

• Walmart organic coconut oil preferred.

• Cod liver oil with meals.

• Immediate pantry clean-out and discipline yield rapid results.

• Coconut milk and A2 butter for dairy allergies.

• Raw milk may be better tolerated.

• Sardines healthy, avoid canola oil.

• Plant-based and animal fats both healthy if sourced well.

• Presenter transitioned from vegan to plant-based with added fats.

Supplements for Hormone Health: DHEA, Life Extension, Bioidentical Hormones

Key Concepts

• Hormones (testosterone, progesterone, estradiol, insulin, D3) are vital for health.

• Baseline hormone testing recommended before supplementation; retest every six months.

• DHEA (Life Extension brand) boosts testosterone; 100 mg daily, sustained release preferred.

• Bioidentical hormone replacement is most natural; compounded, micronized, bioavailable forms preferred.

• D3 and K2 crucial for bone health; cod liver oil supports inflammation and hormone health.

Scientific Evidence

• DHEA and bioidentical hormones support energy, mood, and vitality.

• D3 increases calcium absorption; K2 directs calcium to bones/teeth.

• Cod liver oil reduces inflammation and supports bone/eye health.

Practical Recommendations

• Choose reputable brands (Life Extension for DHEA).

• Work with healthcare providers for bioidentical hormones.

• Take D3/K2 with fat-containing meals.

• Cod liver oil in liquid form, with meals.

• Thyroid issues require compounded T3/T4; gallbladder removal needs ox bile powder enzymes.

• Dairy allergies: coconut oil, A2 butter, goat/sheep cheese.

• Raw milk may be better tolerated.

Audience Q&A Highlights

• Kerrygold butter and Kirkland recommended.

• Avocado oil and beef tallow for cooking.

• Cod liver oil with meals.

• Hormone testing every six months.

• Bioidentical hormones benefit men and women.

• A2 milk/butter, goat/sheep cheese for sensitivities.

• Sardines healthy, avoid canola oil.

• DHEA, exercise, and hormones for testosterone support.

Butter Alternatives for Dairy Allergies: A2 Butter, Plant-Based Options

Key Concepts

• Casein in conventional dairy is linked to allergies and cancer risk.

• A2 butter from cows producing A2 beta-casein is less likely to trigger allergies.

• A2 products more common in southern hemisphere breeds.

Scientific Evidence

• "The China Study" links casein to cancer; A2 casein may differ in health impact.

Practical Recommendations

• Seek out A2 butter for casein allergies.

• Verify product sources for genuine A2 butter.

Audience Q&A Highlights

• A2 butter suggested for dairy/casein allergies; availability may vary.

Raw Milk vs. Pasteurized Milk: Allergy Considerations

Key Concepts

• Milk allergies are immune responses to proteins.

• Pasteurization alters protein structure via high heat, potentially increasing allergenicity.

• Anecdotal evidence suggests some allergic individuals tolerate raw milk better.

Scientific Evidence

• Reports from consumers and professionals (e.g., pharmacist Billy) support improved tolerance with raw milk.

Practical Recommendations

• Consider raw milk under medical supervision for allergy management.

• Monitor for reactions; processing methods influence outcomes.

Audience Q&A Highlights

• Raw milk may alleviate allergy symptoms for some; pasteurization may trigger allergies.

Brand Recommendations: Kerrygold butter, Kirkland, Walmart, Costco

Key Concepts

• Kerrygold butter is the gold standard for grass-fed butter; European standards ban GMOs.

• Kirkland (Costco) offers a cost-effective grass-fed butter in a green box.

• Walmart provides organic, cold-pressed, unrefined coconut oil with a purple label.

Scientific Evidence

• Grass-fed butter has better fatty acid profile and CLA.

• Cold-pressed, unrefined coconut oil retains lauric acid and antimicrobial properties.

Practical Recommendations

• Choose Kerrygold butter for quality; Kirkland for price.

• Opt for organic, cold-pressed, unrefined coconut oil; Walmart's brand recommended.

• Avoid refined coconut oil.

Audience Q&A Highlights

• Kerrygold butter nearly organic due to European standards.

• Kirkland butter comparable in quality.

• Look for "organic," "cold-pressed," "unrefined" on coconut oil labels.

Cooking Oil Selection: Avocado Oil, Olive Oil, Coconut Oil

Key Concepts

• Avocado oil: High smoke point, ideal for high-heat cooking.

• Olive oil: Reserved for cold applications; not for cooking due to low smoke point.

• Coconut oil: Used for low-heat frying; "extra virgin" is a marketing term, not meaningful for coconut oil.

• Choose organic, cold-pressed, unrefined coconut oil.

Scientific Evidence

• Avocado oil stable at high heat; olive oil degrades with heat.

• Cold-pressed coconut oil retains beneficial compounds.

Practical Recommendations

• Use avocado oil for cooking; extra virgin olive oil for salads/dips.

• Use unrefined, cold-pressed coconut oil for gentle frying.

• Ignore "extra virgin" on coconut oil labels; focus on "unrefined" and "cold-pressed."

• Walmart's organic coconut oil recommended.

Audience Q&A Highlights

• "Extra virgin" not meaningful for coconut oil; "unrefined" is key.

• Walmart's organic coconut oil is reliable.

Cod Liver Oil vs. Fish Oil: Differences and Recommendations

Key Concepts

• Cod liver oil from cod liver; fish oil from whole oily fish (mackerel, sardines).

• Cod liver oil less processed, higher in vitamins A and D3.

• Fish oil mainly provides omega-3s, more refined.

Scientific Evidence

• Cod liver oil reduces inflammation, supports bone/eye health, mood, immune system, and may prevent diabetes in children.

• Fish oil is more processed; purity may vary.

Practical Recommendations

• Prefer cod liver oil for purity and vitamin content; liquid forms recommended.

• Take with meals containing fat.

• Fish oil should be highly purified if chosen.

• Avoid fish products packed in unhealthy oils.

Audience Q&A Highlights

• Cod liver oil less processed, richer in vitamins.

• Take with meals for absorption.

• Cod liver oil helps with dry eyes.

• Fish oil purity concerns; choose reputable brands.

Hormone Supplementation for Thyroid and Gallbladder Issues

Key Concepts

• Without a thyroid, compounded T3 and T4 required; ongoing adjustment needed.

• Without a gallbladder, fat digestion is impaired; ox bile powder in digestive enzymes recommended.

Scientific Evidence

• Ox bile powder mimics gallbladder function for fat digestion.

Practical Recommendations

• Use compounded T3/T4 for thyroid removal; monitor levels.

• Use digestive enzymes with ox bile powder for gallbladder removal.

• Fat intake need not be restricted with proper enzyme support.

Audience Q&A Highlights

• Hormone supplementation differs for thyroid removal.

• Ox bile powder essential for fat digestion after gallbladder removal.

• Fats need not be restricted if enzymes are used.

Plant-Based vs. Animal-Based Diets: Personal Experience

Key Concepts

• Presenter transitioned from plant-exclusive (vegan) to plant-based (not exclusive) due to health decline.

• Issues included muscle loss and dangerously low cholesterol.

• Cholesterol essential for cellular health; low levels may weaken blood vessels.

• Noted cases of hemorrhagic stroke among vegans, including George Valdis.

Scientific Evidence & Observations

• Low cholesterol risks include compromised vessel integrity and stroke.

Practical Recommendations

• Monitor cholesterol levels on plant-based diets.

• Exclusive vegan diets may require attention to muscle and vascular health.

Audience Q&A Highlights

• Presenter now plant-based, not exclusive.

• Audience interested in reasons for dietary change.

• Health consequences of exclusive veganism discussed.

Audience Q&A: Practical Tips and Clarifications

Key Concepts and Clarifications

• Kerrygold butter and Kirkland recommended for grass-fed butter.

• Avocado oil and beef tallow for cooking; olive oil for cold use.

• Coconut oil for low-temp frying; "extra virgin" is a marketing term.

• Walmart offers organic, unrefined coconut oil.

• Cod liver oil best with meals; helps dry eyes.

• Cold turkey approach effective for rapid dietary change.

• Ox bile powder for gallbladder removal.

• Coconut milk/cream as plant-based dairy alternative.

• A2 butter/milk, goat/sheep cheese, raw milk for dairy allergies.

• Sardines healthy, avoid canola oil; cod liver oil less processed.

• DHEA, bioidentical hormones, morning exercise for testosterone.

• Goat/sheep cheese preferred for sensitivities.

• Presenter plant-based, not exclusive; animal fats reintroduced for health.

Scientific Evidence and Practical Recommendations

• Rapid dietary change and exercise lower A1C.

• Cod liver oil supports eye health.

• Bioidentical hormones require time and regular testing.

• Dairy allergies linked to protein structure and processing.

Audience Q&A Highlights

• Kerrygold butter and Kirkland for grass-fed butter.

• Avocado oil, beef tallow, olive oil, coconut oil for cooking.

• Cod liver oil with meals.

• Cold turkey diet change effective.

• Ox bile powder for gallbladder removal.

• Coconut milk/cream for plant-based dairy.

• A2 butter/milk, goat/sheep cheese, raw milk for allergies.

• Sardines: check packing oil; cod liver oil preferred.

• DHEA, hormones, exercise for testosterone.

• Goat/sheep cheese for sensitivities.

• Plant-based but not exclusive; animal fats reintroduced for health.