The Ribeye Steak Experiment: Understanding the Impact of Boron on Health
Introduction
In today's episode, I will be sharing the results of my 30-day experiment where I ate only ribeye steak. Yes, that's right, the only thing I consumed for a month was ribeye steak, along with water and salt on my food. I embarked on this experiment because I wanted to see the effects of ribeye on my health.
Before we dive into the details, I have a confession to make. About two weeks into the experiment, I started taking some supplements. I know this may disappoint some viewers who expected a strict ribeye-only diet, but I will explain the reasons behind this later in the episode.
Throughout the experiment, I took before and after photos, as well as blood tests to track any changes. These photos are available on my Instagram, so you can check them out if you're interested.
But that's not all I have to offer in this episode. I also want to provide some helpful information for those struggling with hormones on the carnivore diet. I have some insights that may be particularly pertinent for my fellow Australians, but I will discuss more about this later in the episode.
So, whether you're interested in the before and after photos, the blood test results, or the helpful information about hormones on the carnivore diet, I encourage you to watch the entire episode. However, if you're just interested in the results, feel free to skip to the end. Let's get started!
What I Ate and Cooking Method
During the 30-day experiment, my diet consisted solely of ribeye steak or rib fillet. I chose to eat only ribeye steak because it made me feel the best and provided me with a feeling of fullness and satisfaction. I opted for grain-fed beef instead of grass-fed due to cost considerations.
Shopping frequently was a necessity during this experiment because ribeye steak can be quite expensive. The price ranges from $25 to $40 per pound, so I had to make sure to have enough in stock for the month.
I cooked the ribeye steak in an air fryer, which was a time-saving method for me. While there are alternative cooking methods such as grilling or slow, low reverse sear, using an air fryer was more convenient for my busy schedule.
For seasoning, I kept it simple and used only salt. Due to cost limitations, I used pink Himalayan salt. I seasoned each steak with salt before cooking to enhance the flavour.
Although I occasionally had cravings for other foods like liver, eggs, milk, cheese, and fruit, I attributed these cravings to my body's need for boron. Boron is a trace mineral that enhances the bioavailability of important nutrients like magnesium, zinc, and iron. It just so happens that these foods contain boron, which explains my cravings.
Initial Experience and Cravings
- I had a positive initial experience with eating ribeye steak. It made me feel incredible, both mentally and physically.
- I compared my ribeye-only diet to my previous diet and noticed a significant improvement in my well-being.
- Although I experienced an increase in weight, my body fat decreased.
- After a few days on the ribeye-only diet, I started to experience leg cramps. To alleviate them, I began taking magnesium tablets.
- I also noticed cravings for specific foods like liver, eggs, milk, cheese, and fruit.
- I linked these cravings to potential deficiencies and discovered that these foods contain boron, a trace mineral that enhances the bioavailability of important nutrients.
- To address my cravings and potential deficiencies, I introduced boron tablets into my diet.
- Since taking the boron tablets, my cravings have disappeared, and my overall well-being has improved.
Discovering the Role of Boron
Research on boron as a trace mineral has revealed its importance in various physiological processes. Boron acts as a bioavailability enhancer, meaning it helps enhance the absorption of important minerals in the body. This enhancement plays a crucial role in mineral absorption, including minerals like magnesium, zinc, and iron.
One of the key connections discovered is between boron and magnesium absorption. Boron is necessary for the proper absorption and deposition of magnesium in the body. Without sufficient boron, magnesium levels can decrease, leading to issues like leg cramps and other magnesium deficiency symptoms. This link explains the leg cramps experienced during the ribeye steak experiment and the subsequent relief experienced after taking magnesium tablets.
Boron's role in enhancing bioavailability also explains the cravings for specific foods like liver, eggs, milk, cheese, and fruit. These foods naturally contain boron, and the body may crave them when there is a boron deficiency. The personal experiment with boron tablets showed the disappearance of these cravings, further supporting the connection between boron and food cravings.
The experiment also highlighted the importance of boron in the diet. Boron is not considered an essential nutrient, but its role in enhancing mineral absorption and maintaining proper hormone levels makes it an important trace mineral to consider. The recommendation to consider taking boron supplements is based on the potential benefits it can provide, especially for those experiencing deficiencies in zinc, iron, and testosterone levels.
The impact of boron on zinc, iron, and testosterone levels is significant. Boron helps enhance the absorption of these minerals, promoting their availability in the body. This can have a positive effect on overall health and well-being, improving energy levels, libido, and mental clarity.
In conclusion, the role of boron as a trace mineral cannot be overlooked. Its impact on mineral absorption, cravings for specific foods, and hormone levels makes it an important nutrient to consider in one's diet. For those experiencing deficiencies or imbalances in minerals like magnesium, zinc, iron, or testosterone, taking boron supplements may be beneficial. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before adding any new supplements to your routine.
Effects on Health and Blood Test Results
Following a 30-day experiment of consuming only ribeye steak, the effects on health and blood test results were evaluated. The experiment also included the supplementation of boron, which will be discussed later in this section.
Improved Symptoms of Low Testosterone, Increased Libido, and Energy Levels
Throughout the experiment, the individual reported experiencing improved symptoms of low testosterone, including increased libido and energy levels. This improvement was supported by significant increases in total testosterone and free testosterone levels.
Positive Changes in Sleep Quality
The experiment also resulted in positive changes in sleep quality. The individual reported improved sleep and reduced sleep disturbances, leading to a more restful and rejuvenating sleep.
Reduction in Inflammation Markers
Blood tests showed a reduction in inflammation markers, including white blood cells and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. This reduction indicates a decrease in systemic inflammation, which is beneficial for overall health and well-being.
Changes in Thyroid Hormone Levels and Metabolic Health
The individual's thyroid hormone levels, specifically thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), showed a slight reduction. This reduction suggests an improvement in metabolic health and thyroid function.
Impact on Glucose, Lipids, and Cardiovascular Risk
Blood tests revealed a decrease in fasting glucose levels, indicating improved glucose control. Additionally, lipid profile results showed a decrease in LDL cholesterol levels and an increase in HDL cholesterol levels, both of which contribute to a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.
Effects on Iron, Ferritin, and Transferrin Saturation
The experiment showed that iron levels remained stable, while ferritin levels increased, indicating improved iron storage. Transferrin saturation, a measure of iron availability, also remained within a healthy range.
Results of Liver Enzymes and Kidney Function
Blood tests indicated positive results for liver enzymes, with a decrease in AST and Gamma GT levels. Kidney function, as measured by blood urea levels, remained stable throughout the experiment.
Significant Increase in Testosterone and Free Testosterone Levels
One of the most notable outcomes of the experiment was the significant increase in testosterone and free testosterone levels. This increase had a positive impact on libido, energy levels, and overall well-being.
Discussion of Body Composition and Future Experiments
The experiment also yielded changes in body composition, as evidenced by before and after photos. While the individual is still working towards their personal goals, the noticeable improvement in body fat composition highlights the potential benefits of a ribeye-only diet. Further experiments may explore additional aspects of body composition and health.
Significance for Australians and Conclusion
Australians have high rates of iron, zinc, and magnesium deficiencies, which can lead to various health issues. One of the solutions for enhancing mineral absorption is boron supplementation. Boron is a trace mineral that enhances the bioavailability of important nutrients such as magnesium, zinc, and iron. It just so happens that foods like liver, eggs, milk, cheese, and fruit contain boron, which explains the cravings experienced.
By introducing boron tablets into the diet, cravings disappear and overall well-being improves. This is significant for Australians who struggle with mineral deficiencies, as boron can help enhance mineral absorption. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before adding any new supplements to your routine.
Furthermore, vegetarians and vegans can also benefit from boron supplementation, as their diet may lack certain minerals. Boron can enhance the absorption of important minerals and improve energy levels, libido, and mental clarity for individuals following plant-based diets.
Upcoming experiments with fruit and CGM will provide further insight into how different foods affect glucose levels and overall health. These experiments will contribute to a better understanding of the impact of diet on the body.
In conclusion, boron plays a crucial role in enhancing mineral absorption and maintaining proper hormone levels. Australians and individuals following plant-based diets may consider boron supplementation to address deficiencies and improve overall health. The results of the ribeye steak experiment highlight the importance of boron and its potential benefits.
