The Primal Shift

Michael Kummer
  • 4.9 (50)
  • NUTRITION
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
The Primal Shift

Primal Shift is about helping you achieve optimal health by bridging the gap between ancestral living and the demands of modern society. We’ll talk about every aspect of a healthy life, including sleep, nutrition, exercise, stress management, environmental toxins, hormesis, belonging and tribalism, and reconnecting with nature. Get ready to unlock the transformative power of nature as the ultimate biohack, revolutionize your health and reconnect you with your primal self. Each episode is short and concise, providing you with actionable tips and tricks you can use to start living a more primal lifestyle today.

  1. 70: How This Ancient Practice Transforms Your Life | With Jeff Patterson

    1 DAY AGO

    70: How This Ancient Practice Transforms Your Life | With Jeff Patterson

    Imagine gaining an edge in life not by force, but by knowing when to yield. Jeff Patterson, founder of Northwest Fighting Arts and Portland Tai Chi Academy, joins me to discuss the art of yielding — an approach that uses awareness and adaptability as tools for strength.  Patterson explains that yielding isn’t about giving in; it’s about harnessing energy, refining focus, and applying strategy to achieve better results in everything from self-defense to personal growth. Physically, yielding can mean moving with an opponent’s force rather than fighting it, a principle that gives martial artists a way to handle larger, stronger adversaries. But the concept reaches far beyond combat. Mental yielding can help us stay centered in daily life, using presence to navigate challenges and conflicts without escalating them. And emotional yielding can help us manage our reactions to stress, choosing thoughtful responses over automatic ones. So whether you’re interested in martial arts, meditation, or simply looking to enhance your everyday mindset, this conversation reveals practical ways to cultivate balance and strength by yielding to, rather than resisting, life’s pressures. Learn more: Get a free copy of Jeff's book here: theyieldingwarrior.com/book  Primal Shift Podcast 64: Why Meditation Is Powerful! | Ariel Garten: https://www.primalshiftpodcast.com/64-why-meditation-is-powerful/  Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, Lumen! Lumen makes a groundbreaking metabolism tracker that helps you take control of your health by understanding whether your body is burning carbs or fat for fuel at any moment. I’ve been using Lumen for months now, and it’s incredible how much insight it provides to help optimize nutrition and energy levels. If you’re looking to take your health to the next level, Lumen is a game-changer. To learn more about why I love the Lumen device, check out my in-depth review and use code MK to get 10% off your first purchase. In this episode: 00:00 - Introduction 01:30 - Jeff Paterson and the concept of Yielding 05:45 - Physical, mental, and emotional yielding explained 11:20 - Yielding’s role in martial arts and daily life 18:50 - Meditation, breathing, and staying centered 25:10 - Applying meditative practices in modern life 30:00 - Practical tips for getting started with meditation and yielding 35:40 - Closing thoughts & where to find Jeff's resources Find me on social media for more health and wellness content: Website: https://michaelkummer.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primalshiftpodcast/ Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/michaelkummer/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/michaelkummer/ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/mkummer82 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realmichaelkummer/ [Medical Disclaimer] The information shared on this video is for educational purposes only, is not a substitute for the advice of medical doctors or registered dietitians (which I am not) and should not be used to prevent, diagnose, or treat any condition. Consult with a physician before starting a fitness regimen, adding supplements to your diet, or making other changes that may affect your medications, treatment plan, or overall health. [Affiliate Disclaimer] I earn affiliate commissions from some of the brands and products I review on this channel. While that doesn't change my editorial integrity, it helps make this channel happen. If you’d like to support me, please use my affiliate links or discount code. #PrimalShift #OptimalHealth #AncestralLiving #Yielding #JeffPatterson #MartialArts #Meditation

    42 min
  2. 69: Is Your Dog's Diet Really Healthy? Here’s What You Need to Know

    NOV 13

    69: Is Your Dog's Diet Really Healthy? Here’s What You Need to Know

    Ever wonder if you’re feeding your dog the diet nature intended? In this episode, I explain why dogs are natural-born meat eaters and challenge some widespread misconceptions about what your dog should be eating (even those your vet might be promoting).  Dogs descend directly from wolves, which are obligate carnivores with physiology designed for a meat-centric diet. From their sharp, pointed teeth (which are ideal for tearing flesh) to their highly acidic digestive systems (which effortlessly break down meat and bones), every aspect of a dog’s anatomy screams “carnivore.” Unfortunately, modern feeding practices usually ignore this biological reality, with many dogs consuming grain-filled kibble that doesn’t align with their body’s demands. Our German Shepherd, Rib Eye, thrives on a raw meat diet. His meals consist of muscle meat, organs, bones, and occasional extras like egg yolks, raw milk kefir, and even the stomach contents of prey animals. The results of this diet are clear as day: a shiny coat, clean teeth without brushing, and boundless energy. This stands in stark contrast to many kibble-fed dogs, which suffer from obesity, dental issues, and chronic diseases like diabetes and cancer. If you care about your dog’s well-being, it’s time to question the status quo. Feeding a raw meat diet may be more costly and time-consuming, but the benefits to your companion’s health are undeniable. Let’s rethink what’s truly best for our four-legged friends and align their diets with what nature intended. In this episode: 00:00 - Intro 00:40 - Dogs as carnivores: Ancestry and physiology 01:45 - Why vets recommend kibble 03:30 - Feeding Rib Eye: Our raw diet experience 06:20 - Benefits of raw feeding vs. kibble 08:40 - Common misconceptions about dogs’ diets 10:30 - Health crisis in pets: Obesity and chronic diseases 12:15 - Kibble ingredients and why they're harmful 14:30 - The cost and practicality of raw feeding 15:20 - Conclusion: Think for yourself, question the status quo Learn more: Time to rethink what's in your dog's bowl: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I7ztpe0qXsA Feeding our loyal German Shepherd a natural meat diet, just like nature intended: https://youtube.com/shorts/AqfI_jeDZyA Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, Peluva! Peluva makes minimalist shoes to support optimal foot, back and joint health. I started wearing Peluvas several months ago, and I haven’t worn regular shoes since. I encourage you to consider trading your sneakers or training shoes for a pair of Peluvas, and then watch the health of your feet and lower back improve while reducing your risk of injury.  To learn more about why I love Peluva barefoot shoes, check out my in-depth review and use code KUMMER to get 15% off your first pair. Find me on social media for more health and wellness content: Website: https://michaelkummer.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primalshiftpodcast/ Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/michaelkummer/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/michaelkummer/ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/mkummer82 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realmichaelkummer/ [Medical Disclaimer] The information shared on this video is for educational purposes only, is not a substitute for the advice of medical doctors or registered dietitians (which I am not) and should not be used to prevent, diagnose, or treat any condition. Consult with a physician before starting a fitness regimen, adding supplements to your diet, or making other changes that may affect your medications, treatment plan, or overall health. #PrimalShift #OptimalHealth #AncestralLiving #Pets #Dogs #Kibble #RawDiet #DogsNutrition

    16 min
  3. 68: Does Depression Lead to Bad Food Choices? | Josh Noland

    NOV 6

    68: Does Depression Lead to Bad Food Choices? | Josh Noland

    Can changing your diet transform your mental health? In this episode, I explore the profound connection between nutrition and emotional well-being through the inspiring journey of health advocate and author Josh Noland. Overcoming depression and physical inactivity, Noland reclaimed his life by embracing mindful eating, meditation and strength training. By making small, sustainable changes — like swapping processed snacks for whole fruits and prioritizing protein intake — he significantly improved both his mental and physical health. His story underscores the foundational role of mental health in overall wellness, influencing our motivation to make healthier choices and maintain beneficial habits. Simple practices such as walking after meals not only stabilize blood sugar but also enhance mood, demonstrating how accessible actions can lead to substantial benefits. During our conversation, we also talk about the importance of home cooking for controlling ingredient quality and supporting optimal health, contrasting it with the pitfalls of processed foods and restaurant meals laden with unhealthy fats and additives.  With his upcoming cookbook, Noland aims to make nutritious eating both accessible and enjoyable. His journey serves as a compelling reminder that taking ownership of your health doesn’t have to begin with drastic overhauls — it can start with manageable steps that lead to lasting change. In this episode: 00:00 - Intro 00:40 - Food, mood, and mental health 02:20 - Josh’s health journey and lifestyle changes 06:00 - Benefits of walking and small dietary changes 10:05 - Prioritizing protein for health 14:05 - Staying active and using resistance bands 16:50 - Mental health and the importance of therapy 21:00 - The value of cooking at home 25:37 - Josh’s books and final thoughts 36:30 - Outro and next episode preview Learn more: Download my free Animal Based Diet Food & Beverage List: https://michaelkummer.com/food-list/  18: What I eat in an animal-based diet + My go-to food choices and supplements: https://www.primalshiftpodcast.com/what-i-eat-in-an-animal-based-diet-my-go-to-food-choices-and-supplements/  Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, Peluva! Peluva makes minimalist shoes to support optimal foot, back and joint health. I started wearing Peluvas several months ago, and I haven’t worn regular shoes since. I encourage you to consider trading your sneakers or training shoes for a pair of Peluvas, and then watch the health of your feet and lower back improve while reducing your risk of injury.  To learn more about why I love Peluva barefoot shoes, check out my in-depth review and use code KUMMER to get 15% off your first pair. Learn more from Josh: Author of the Protein Lifestyle Series and Irritable Bowel Syndrome Relief. Find me on social media for more health and wellness content: Website: https://michaelkummer.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primalshiftpodcast/ Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/michaelkummer/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/michaelkummer/ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/mkummer82 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realmichaelkummer/ [Medical Disclaimer] The information shared on this video is for educational purposes only, is not a substitute for the advice of medical doctors or registered dietitians (which I am not) and should not be used to prevent, diagnose, or treat any condition. Consult with a physician before starting a fitness regimen, adding supplements to your diet, or making other changes that may affect your medications, treatment plan, or overall health. [Affiliate Disclaimer] I earn affiliate commissions from some of the brands and products I review on this channel. While that doesn't change my editorial integrity, it helps make this channel happen. If you’d like to support me, please use my affiliate links or discount code. #PrimalShift #Optim

    33 min
  4. 67: Healthier Thanksgiving Dinner Starts With This

    OCT 30

    67: Healthier Thanksgiving Dinner Starts With This

    With Thanksgiving just around the corner, many of us are gearing up to prepare the perfect holiday feast. But before you grab just any turkey from the supermarket, consider opting for a pasture-raised bird. They have better fat profiles, more nutrients, and superior flavor compared to their factory-farmed counterparts. Plus, pasture-raised turkeys are often raised via regenerative farming practices that benefit the planet. In this episode of the Primal Shift Podcast, I explain why the way a turkey is raised directly impacts its nutritional value, and how conventional farming practices can lead to birds full of inflammatory omega-6 fats. By contrast, pasture-raised turkeys that forage naturally have a more balanced omega-3 to omega-6 ratio, which reduces inflammation and promotes overall health. Additionally, these birds are richer in vitamins and minerals due to their varied diet of grass and insects, making them a far healthier option for your holiday table. Plus, I’ll tell you what we’ve learned since we started raising our own slow-growing turkeys here at the Kummer Homestead. From having full control over their diet and lifestyle to seeing the direct impact on their health, it’s been an eye-opening journey. If you’re looking for a more flavorful, nutrient-dense bird this Thanksgiving — and one that aligns with your values around health and sustainability — this episode is for you. Join me for a conversation about the benefits of ethical farming, and how the choices we make around food can influence both our health and our environment.  In this episode: 00:00 - Intro 00:18 - Why choose a pasture-raised turkey? 01:34 - The health benefits of pasture-raised turkeys 03:35 - Ethical reasons for choosing pasture-raised 07:53 - Final thoughts: What your turkey choice reflects 08:50 - Next episode’s preview Learn more: The Primal Shift Podcast with Dr. Anthony Gustin: The Shocking Truth Behind Pasture-Raised Chicken and Pork: https://www.primalshiftpodcast.com/dr-anthony-gustin-the-shocking-truth-behind-pasture-raised-chicken-and-pork/  Small Space, BIG Homestead | Kummer Homestead Complete TOUR: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=24tUsLyFK6M  Shopping for an animal-based diet at Walmart: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3iQOoEAwzTc  Shopping for an animal-based duet at Aldi: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w2woWi7T0GU  Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, OneSkin! OneSkin’s lineup of topical skin health products leverage the power of the company’s proprietary OS-01 peptide to remove dead skin cells, improve collagen production, increase skin hydration and more. Check out my before and after photos in my OneSkin review and visit OneSkin here. Get 15% off with my discount code MKUMMER: https://michaelkummer.com/go/oneskinshop  Find me on social media for more health and wellness content: Website: https://michaelkummer.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primalshiftpodcast/ Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/michaelkummer/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/michaelkummer/ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/mkummer82 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realmichaelkummer/ [Medical Disclaimer] The information shared on this video is for educational purposes only, is not a substitute for the advice of medical doctors or registered dietitians (which I am not) and should not be used to prevent, diagnose, or treat any condition. Consult with a physician before starting a fitness regimen, adding supplements to your diet, or making other changes that may affect your medications, treatment plan, or overall health. [Affiliate Disclaimer] I earn affiliate commissions from some of the brands and products I review on this channel. While that doesn't change my editorial integrity, it helps make this channel happen. If you’d like to support me, please use my affiliate links or discount code. #PrimalShift #OptimalHealth #An

    10 min
  5. 66: Is Your Relationship Holding You Back from Better Health?

    OCT 23

    66: Is Your Relationship Holding You Back from Better Health?

    When you commit to improving your health — whether it’s through diet, exercise, or lifestyle changes — you often find yourself at odds with the people closest to you. For example, when I made the switch to paleo over a decade ago, it put a serious strain on my relationship with my wife. I cut out entire food groups overnight, convinced it was the best way forward for our health. But without explaining my reasons or considering her perspective, it nearly pushed us to the brink. In this episode of the Primal Shift Podcast, I sit down with relationship coach Bates to discuss the often-overlooked impact that health and lifestyle changes can have on relationships. Bates shares similar stories from his clients and his own life, revealing how making drastic changes (even with the best of intentions) can create unexpected friction with those you love.  During our conversation, we talk about the importance of setting boundaries, how being overly accommodating to your partner can lead to a buildup of resentment, and why it’s critical that you refrain from imposing your beliefs on the people around you.  Whether you’re dealing with disagreements over food choices with a partner, managing family expectations, or struggling to maintain your health goals amid social pressures, this episode is filled with practical tips and insights on how to navigate those tensions while staying true to your values. Tune in for an eye-opening discussion on the intersection of health and relationships and how to maintain balance in both. In this episode: 00:00 - Intro 03:40 - Health goals vs. relationship friction 06:00 - Personal story: Paleo diet and relationship challenges 07:45 - How over-agreeableness can damage relationships 10:00 - Navigating family dynamics when lifestyles clash 12:55 - How setting boundaries strengthens relationships 15:00 - Men and women filling the same roles in modern relationships 17:00 - Balancing career, health, and relationship priorities 22:00 - The challenge of dating while health-conscious 28:00 - Why experimentation leads to truth in health choices 34:20 - Flexibility vs. rigidity in relationships 40:00 - Wrap-up and final thoughts 53:17 - Next episode’s preview Learn more: Episode #59: Paleo, Keto, Carnivore [Navigating Dietary Changes as a Family]: https://www.primalshiftpodcast.com/59-paleo-keto-carnivore-navigating-dietary-changes-as-a-family/ Episode #31: From Vegan to Carnivore: A Deep Dive into Diet and Lifestyle with Bates: https://www.primalshiftpodcast.com/from-vegan-to-carnivore-a-deep-dive-into-diet-and-lifestyle-with-bates/ How to Live a Healthy Lifestyle (8 Core Principles): https://michaelkummer.com/healthy-lifestyle-guide/ Use the code YOUTUBE10 to get 10% off your order of Grass-Fed Beef Liver supplements at https://shop.michaelkummer.com Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, Peluva! Peluva makes minimalist shoes to support optimal foot, back and joint health. I started wearing Peluvas several months ago, and I haven’t worn regular shoes since. I encourage you to consider trading your sneakers or training shoes for a pair of Peluvas, and then watch the health of your feet and lower back improve while reducing your risk of injury.  To learn more about why I love Peluva barefoot shoes, check out my in-depth review and use code KUMMER to get 15% off your first pair. Learn more from Bates: Coach, Small Business Owner, & Author Email: animalbates@gmail.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/animalbates Find me on social media for more health and wellness content: Website: https://michaelkummer.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primalshiftpodcast/ Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/michaelkummer/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/michaelkummer/ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/mkummer82 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realmichaelkummer/ [Medical Disclaimer] The information shared

    55 min
  6. 65: Why Testosterone Affects Your Drive to Do Hard Things

    OCT 16

    65: Why Testosterone Affects Your Drive to Do Hard Things

    Have you ever noticed how on some days, powering through a tough workout or jumping into the freezing water of a cold plunge feels almost effortless, while on others, it’s as if your ability to push through discomfort has vanished? It’s not always just a matter of motivation or willpower. Low testosterone can directly impact both your physical and mental performance, making it more difficult to stay focused and deal with hormetic stressors like extreme temperatures and intense activity. Despite my relatively healthy lifestyle, my testosterone levels have always been less than optimal. In other words, my levels are consistently on the lower end of normal, which means there are times when I struggle to maintain the drive to push myself in the gym, or when I suffer from mental fatigue that makes it harder to see tough projects through to completion.  So in this episode of the Primal Shift Podcast, I share my personal journey of battling fluctuating testosterone levels and explain what I’ve learned over the years about how to increase testosterone naturally, why it’s so important for your overall health, and how to recognize the low testosterone symptoms that could be holding you back.  The good news is that making the right lifestyle changes, getting proper nutrition, and using the right supplements can help support your hormone production. Unfortunately, testosterone production is a multi-level biological process, so these interventions don’t work for everyone. Still, they’re worth trying before turning to more serious options like hormone replacement therapy.  If you’ve been struggling to maintain the energy and focus you once had, or if you’re finding it harder to push through discomfort, it might be time to take a closer look at your testosterone levels. Understanding the role testosterone plays in both your mental and physical resilience is key to unlocking better performance and well-being. Tune in to this episode to learn how to recognize the signs of low T, as well as what you can do today to start addressing the problem. In this episode: 00:00 - Intro 01:15 - Struggling with hard things? It could be testosterone 02:25 - My experiments with testosterone levels 03:07 - Research on testosterone and its impact on motivation 03:53 - How low testosterone affects endurance and pain perception 04:49 - Testosterone levels: Why the range matters 05:43 - Advice for men struggling to push themselves 06:35 - Teaser for next episode:: Bates on relationships and health Learn more: Primal Shift Podcast #32: Testosterone Replacement Therapy | The one downside nobody talks about: ​​https://www.primalshiftpodcast.com/32-testosterone-replacement-therapy-the-one-downside-nobody-talks-about/  How Xenoestrogens Make You Infertile and Sick: https://michaelkummer.com/xenoestrogens/  Ice Barrel 500 vs. 400: In-Depth Review 2024: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W_TsS7eknmE&t=36s  Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, OneSkin! OneSkin’s lineup of topical skin health products leverage the power of the company’s proprietary OS-01 peptide to remove dead skin cells, improve collagen production, increase skin hydration and more. Check out my before and after photos in my OneSkin review and visit OneSkin here. Get 15% off with my discount code MKUMMER: https://michaelkummer.com/go/oneskinshop  Find me on social media for more health and wellness content: Website: https://michaelkummer.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primalshiftpodcast/ Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/michaelkummer/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/michaelkummer/ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/mkummer82 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realmichaelkummer/ [Medical Disclaimer] The information shared on this video is for educational purposes only, is not a substitute for the advice of medical doctors or registered dietitians (which I am not) an

    8 min
  7. 64: Why Meditation Is Powerful!

    OCT 9

    64: Why Meditation Is Powerful!

    Many of us go through life in a state of constant distraction and stress, unable to break free from the pressure that modern living places on our mental health. Whether it’s struggling with decision fatigue, anxiety, or simply feeling overwhelmed by the constant stream of information, finding calm seems harder than ever. That’s where meditation comes in; it can be a powerful tool to rewire your brain and help you manage these challenges in a healthier way. In this episode, I sit down with Ariel Garten, a neuroscientist, psychotherapist, and the founder of Muse, a brain-sensing headband that makes meditation more accessible by providing real-time feedback on brain activity. Muse allows users to see how their mind responds during meditation, giving them the tools to understand whether they’re truly focused or letting distractions take over. This feedback helps meditators stay present and progressively refine their practice, which can be especially valuable for beginners or anyone struggling to stay consistent with meditation. Garten shares fascinating insights into how meditation goes beyond just relaxation, explaining its role in actually reshaping how our brain processes stress. She dives into how regular practice can reduce reactivity to stressful stimuli — those automatic, emotional responses that lead to frustration or anger — by strengthening parts of the brain responsible for emotional regulation.  In other words, meditation isn’t about suppressing emotions, but about being more aware of them and having the space to choose a better response. One of the most interesting points we discuss is how even short, daily meditation sessions can have a profound impact on overall mental well-being. It doesn’t require hours of practice to see results. According to studies, just a few minutes of mindfulness each day can improve focus, reduce anxiety, and increase emotional awareness. Garten highlights how building this habit creates a ripple effect, where emotional control leads to better decision-making, healthier relationships, and a greater sense of overall calm. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed or struggled to maintain a sense of balance in a world filled with distractions, this episode offers valuable tools to help you regain control and become more present in your daily life. Whether you’re a seasoned meditator or just starting out, Garten’s practical advice and the innovative Muse technology can help you take the first step toward mental clarity and emotional stability. In this episode: 00:00 - Intro 02:22 - The evolution of human emotional intelligence 06:00 - Modern innovations and their impact on mental health 08:47 - Decision fatigue and emotional overwhelm 11:32 - The importance of modeling behavior for kids 14:23 - Observing urges through meditation 16:24 - What is meditation 21:42 - Meditation biggest challenge 23:11 - WATCH THIS! 28:16 - Using Muse for meditation and sleep improvement 30:22 - Does biofeedback distract or help during meditation? 32:07 - How Muse helps beginners and experienced meditators 33:03 - Simple steps to start meditating today 37:35 - Outro and final thoughts on Muse and meditation 40:05 - Teaser for next episode: testosterone and handling difficult tasks Learn more: Try the Muse meditation headband at https://michaelkummer.com/go/muse – use code MKUMMER for 15% off Muse Headband Review: Improve Your Meditation:  https://youtu.be/MrFpTuAG4I8  Muse Headband Review: Boost Your Meditation & Sleep: https://youtu.be/VynTu7nZw2A  How the Muse Headband Tracks Your Brain for Better Meditation: https://michaelkummer.com/health/muse-headband-review/ Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, Peluva! Peluva makes minimalist shoes to support optimal foot, back and joint health. I started wearing Peluvas several months ago, and I haven’t worn regular shoes since. I encourage you to consider trading your sneakers or training shoes for a pair of Peluvas, and t

    41 min
  8. 63: HbA1c Levels Explained: Why They May Be High Without High Blood Sugar

    OCT 2

    63: HbA1c Levels Explained: Why They May Be High Without High Blood Sugar

    Are you finding that your HbA1c levels are elevated despite being on a low-carb, ketogenic, or even carnivore diet? Recently, my HbA1c test came back at 5.7 (just under the prediabetic range), and I knew something was off; after all, I’ve been following a relatively low-carb lifestyle for years, so there’s no way my blood sugar should be high enough to suggest prediabetes.  In consulting with carnivore diet expert and medical doctor Shawn Baker, I learned that healthy red blood cells that live longer than average can actually skew HbA1c readings, making it appear as though you have higher blood glucose than you do. This happens because the longer your red blood cells live, the more glucose has time to attach to hemoglobin, artificially inflating your HbA1c levels. (Conversely, shorter-lived red blood cells can lead to lower readings, even in those with high blood sugar.) In this episode, I break down the science of the HbA1c test and explain how factors like red blood cell lifespan, iron deficiency, anemia, and other health conditions can all affect your hemoglobin A1c results.  Even if you have healthy blood sugar and no signs of diabetes, your HbA1c might still be higher due to these factors. In my case, despite my elevated HbA1c, my continuous glucose monitor (CGM) showed average blood glucose levels between 85 and 89 mg/dL — well within the normal range. In this episode: 00:00:00 - Intro & elevated HBA1C discovery 00:01:15 - Investigating the cause of high HBA1C 00:02:54 - Understanding HBA1C and red blood cells 00:04:19 - Dr. Shawn Baker’s explanation: longer lifespan of RBCs 00:06:28 - Conclusion & next episode sneak peek Learn more: Continuous Glucose Monitoring Explained: https://michaelkummer.com/continuous-glucose-monitoring/ Levels vs. Nutrisense: CGM Comparison: https://michaelkummer.com/levels-vs-nutrisense/ Why You Should Wear a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM): https://www.primalshiftpodcast.com/44-why-you-should-wear-a-continuous-glucose-monitor-cgm/ How Exercise Influences Your Blood Glucose Response [Coke Challenge]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iIiuRoKtq1s Use the code YOUTUBE10 to get 10% off your order of Grass-Fed Beef Liver supplements at https://shop.michaelkummer.com Affordable At-Home Blood Testing with SiPhox Health: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R7qRLzBcp94 Get 20% off your SiPhox Health purchase with the code MICHAELKUMMER at: https://michaelkummer.com/go/siphoxhealth   Ultrahuman vs Oura Ring: What’s the BEST Fitness and Sleep Tracker?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E-vAgCh22zk Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, OneSkin! OneSkin’s lineup of topical skin health products leverage the power of the company’s proprietary OS-01 peptide to remove dead skin cells, improve collagen production, increase skin hydration and more. Check out my before and after photos in my OneSkin review and visit OneSkin here. Get 15% off with my discount code MKUMMER: https://michaelkummer.com/go/oneskinshop  Find me on social media for more health and wellness content: Website: https://michaelkummer.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primalshiftpodcast/ Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/michaelkummer/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/michaelkummer/ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/mkummer82 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realmichaelkummer/ [Medical Disclaimer] The information shared on this video is for educational purposes only, is not a substitute for the advice of medical doctors or registered dietitians (which I am not) and should not be used to prevent, diagnose, or treat any condition. Consult with a physician before starting a fitness regimen, adding supplements to your diet, or making other changes that may affect your medications, treatment plan, or overall health. [Affiliate Disclaimer] I earn affiliate commissions from some of the brands and products I review on this

    8 min
See All (70)

Trailer

4.9
out of 5
50 Ratings

About

Primal Shift is about helping you achieve optimal health by bridging the gap between ancestral living and the demands of modern society. We’ll talk about every aspect of a healthy life, including sleep, nutrition, exercise, stress management, environmental toxins, hormesis, belonging and tribalism, and reconnecting with nature. Get ready to unlock the transformative power of nature as the ultimate biohack, revolutionize your health and reconnect you with your primal self. Each episode is short and concise, providing you with actionable tips and tricks you can use to start living a more primal lifestyle today.

Information

  • Creator
    Michael Kummer
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2024
  • Episodes
    70
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2023
  • Show Website
    The Primal Shift

You Might Also Like

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.
Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada