A carnivore diet is a restrictive diet that only includes meat, fish, and other animal products like dairy and eggs. More recently, it has been brought into the limelight by influencers and social media personalities. In fact, there is a whole community of "meatfluencer" who are sharing their meat-eating plans. One of them is Dr Paul Saladino MD, whose belief that there was no better way to prevent chronic diseases than a carnivore diet prompted him to write books and post videos regarding the same. He believed so much in this eating plan that he became a go-to person for many following the same plan, until recently, when he decided to quit.

Here Are Seven Reasons Why He Decided To Quit

Carnivore Diet Disrupted His Sleep

Switching to an all-meat diet isn't always straightforward, especially when it comes to digestion—a lesson Dr Saladino learned firsthand. He experienced sleep disturbances, likely due to the difficulty of digesting high-protein meals. Since protein takes longer to break down, it demands more energy from the body, which can interfere with rest.

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, digestion slows by up to 50% during sleep. Additionally, many types of meat contain tyramine, a compound derived from the amino acid tyrosine. Increased tyramine intake can lead to health issues and also triggers the release of norepinephrine, a hormone that raises heart rate and blood pressure, making restful sleep harder to achieve.

He also experienced hypnagogic jerks—sudden muscle spasms that jolt the body awake. "I would fall asleep but then jerk myself awake like I was falling multiple times. It was stressful and traumatic, leading to poor sleep," he shared in his YouTube video.

Eating Only Meat May Have Triggered Heart Palpitations

Another concerning side effect Dr Saladino experienced was heart palpitations—episodes where his heart felt like it was racing or fluttering. While stress is a common cause, few would immediately link palpitations to meat consumption.

However, a sudden shift to an all-meat diet can lead to electrolyte imbalances. The elimination of carbohydrates lowers insulin levels, prompting the kidneys to excrete more sodium. This disrupts the balance of essential minerals like potassium and magnesium, which are crucial for heart function.

Muscle Cramps Became Persistent

Dr Saladino also suffered from frequent muscle cramps while following the carnivore diet. In a post on X, he emphasized the importance of maintaining adequate magnesium, calcium, and potassium levels to prevent cramping. He initially believed that animal-based foods provided sufficient minerals, but his ongoing cramps led him to reconsider.

"I started to think maybe long-term ketosis is not great for me,” he admitted on the *More Plates More Dates* podcast. “Probably not a great thing for most humans."

His Testosterone Levels Dropped Significantly

Dr Saladino also saw a decline in his testosterone levels after following the carnivore diet for over a year. "At the beginning of my carnivore experiment, my testosterone was about 800. After a year to a year and a half, it had dropped to around 500," he revealed.

The issue likely stems from excessive protein intake, which can elevate inflammation and disrupt hormone levels. A 2022 study published in Nutrition and Health found that consuming more than 35% of daily calories from protein can lead to various negative effects, including reduced testosterone.

He Had Chronically Low Insulin Levels

Because he largely eliminated carbohydrates—except for a small amount of fruit—Dr Saladino developed persistently low blood sugar. In his YouTube video, he explained, "I had very low insulin because I wasn’t eating carbohydrates, and the protein I consumed wasn’t insulinogenic enough."

While some diabetics report improved blood sugar control on the carnivore diet, its effects vary based on individual metabolic responses. For non-diabetics, low insulin can lead to hypoglycemia, causing symptoms like dizziness, confusion, a racing heart, and, in extreme cases, seizures or coma. Mild cases can be managed with fast-acting carbohydrates like juice or candy, but severe episodes require medical attention.

His Blood Test Results Showed Concerning Imbalances

Lab tests revealed that his magnesium levels were low, while his sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) was elevated—both potential red flags for long-term health issues.

A magnesium deficiency can cause numbness, tingling, fatigue, nausea, headaches, and muscle cramps. Since cramps often strike at night, low magnesium may also contribute to sleep disturbances.

High SHBG levels indicate an excess of circulating protein in the blood, which can increase the risk of heart disease, osteoporosis, and depression. To counteract these imbalances, introducing more magnesium-rich foods—such as leafy greens, nuts, beans, and yogurt—could be beneficial.

He Felt Cold All The Time

Electrolyte imbalances and metabolic disruptions can even affect body temperature, which Dr. Saladino experienced firsthand. "I was always cold,"he shared in his YouTube video.

Upon testing his thyroid function, he discovered that his total T3 and free T3 hormone levels were "not ideal." These hormones regulate metabolism, and low levels can slow down metabolic processes, leading to cold intolerance.

Men have been taught for generations that they must be strong, that they are supposed to be self-sufficient, not to feel any impact, and to be emotionally strong when they face challenges.

Resilience is a good trait, but it may also make men feel disheartened about sharing their vulnerabilities or asking for assistance when they need it. Emotional distress can often be seen as a personal failure, rather than a health issue, as many grow up hearing "man up" or "be strong.”

Why Mental Health Crisis In Men Is On The Rise?

Meanwhile, there is still a high demand for men in society. Financial pressures, career expectations, family commitments, and social expectations can become a never-ending burden.

These factors can lead to feelings of loneliness, worry, and sadness, especially when combined with not having enough emotional release and wanting to turn to others for help.

Toxic Masculinity

Men are expected to be a part of the discussion, but not the central point of discussion when it comes to mental health. But the figures don't match. Almost three-fourths of the suicides in India are committed by men, which is a hidden and unaddressed issue.

One of the major issues is that there is a definition of masculinity in society. Boys are taught to be tough and independent from a young age and do not have to show feelings. The traits can both assist people in coping with difficulties and hinder them from admitting to emotional problems or seeking help when it is most necessary.

Read more: Doctors Day: From Burnout To Work Anxiety, The Mental Health Struggle Doctors Rarely Talk About

Lack Of Safe Space

A further issue is that there are not enough safe places in which men can express feelings without risk of condemnation. Stigma can be a barrier to seeking help even when there is help available. This can not only postpone treatment but also increase symptoms of loneliness and hopelessness.

The answer is more than just asking men to "speak up". We need to actively question and combat the stereotypes entrenched in society that equate vulnerability with weakness. Both families and workplaces, schools and communities all have a part to play in promoting emotional literacy and open dialogue amongst men.

Men may not be aware of or express emotional distress in traditional ways, which can be a big problem. Rather, symptoms can be manifested as irritability, withdrawal, substance abuse, or risk-taking behaviour, which can make it difficult for family members and friends to recognise when intervention is required.

It is not enough to raise awareness to solve this crisis. It is important to establish a space of normalisation for expressing emotions, to provide support for mental health and to make it part of the identity to seek help instead of looking weak. Promoting the mental health of men is not only an individual matter, but also a public health issue that can save lives.

For a genuine commitment to the prevention of suicide, mental health status of men needs to be a public health issue. Being sensitive to their challenges, to the idea of seeking assistance, and to establishing environments that are supportive of them can make the difference between life and death.

By Dr. Hamza Hussain, Head of the Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health at Ruby Hall Clinic and Bhavya Shah, Consultant Psychologist at Saifee Hospital, Mumbai

Cancer cases are rising across India, but many patients still reach hospitals only after the disease has advanced. According to Dr. Hasmukh Jain, Professor of Medical Oncology at Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, recognizing persistent warning signs and seeking timely medical care can make a critical difference.

Speaking about cancer awareness, Dr. Jain said, "Every year 15 lakh new cases of cancer are diagnosed in India. But the unfortunate thing is that most of these cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage."

He stressed that while cancer can present in many different ways, paying attention to your body's signals is one of the most important steps toward early diagnosis.

Persistent Symptoms Should Never Be Ignored

Dr. Jain explained that cancer often begins with symptoms that are common to many other illnesses, making them easy to dismiss. These may include:

• Unusual or persistent fatigue
• A cough lasting more than two weeks
• Unexplained weight loss
• Bleeding from the nose or other parts of the body
• Fever lasting more than two weeks

Although these symptoms may also occur due to infections or conditions such as tuberculosis, he advised against ignoring them.

"If the symptoms are persisting for more than two weeks, always seek medical attention," Dr. Jain said.

He added that many cancers can be detected through a physical examination, basic blood tests, and, when required, a biopsy.

Also Read: FSSAI Targets 6 Energy Drink Brands; Experts Link Them to Obesity, Liver Problems

Everyday Habits That Can Reduce Cancer Risk

Cancer cases are increasing at an alarming rate, both in India and globally. To combat this, embracing healthy lifestyle practices can significantly reduce the risk of this life-threatening disease.

Here are some of the everyday habits that one can follow to reduce the risk of cancer:

Maintain A Healthy Diet

Consuming a healthy and balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can reduce cancer risk. Berries, nuts, and green leafy vegetables contain many antioxidant properties that are useful in fighting oxidative stress-induced cancer. Cutting back and eliminating red and processed meat and sugar-containing drinks lowers the risk further.

Stay Physically Active

Regular physical activity keeps the individual body fit and reduces the risk of breast, colon, and endometrial cancers.

Avoid Tobacco And Cut Down On Alcohol Consumption

Among the factors that would be measured when determining preventable causes, tobacco use takes part as the first head in the index, associated with lung, throat, or mouth cancers. Similarly, alcohol consumption exposure is linked to many cancers, from hepatocellular to breast cancer. Moderation or abstinence is the key.

Protect Your Skin From The Sun

Skin cancer is one of the most preventable types of cancer. Applying sunscreen with high SPF, finding shade, and avoiding tanning beds would save you from harmful ultraviolet rays.

Get Regular Screenings

Most people, including men and women over the age of 40, should get routine screening through mammograms, Pap tests, and colonoscopy to enhance early detection, which can save lives.

Moreover, cancer prevention is a shared goal influenced by personal choices. Bringing small yet steady changes in daily habits can dramatically reduce cancer risk while enhancing quality of life.

Swimming is often considered one of the safest forms of exercise—and for good reason. It provides an excellent cardiovascular workout, builds muscle strength, and places far less stress on the joints than activities like running or weight training. However, "safe" does not mean "injury-proof."

Whether it's children learning their first strokes or adults swimming regularly for fitness, injuries can occur when technique is poor, training intensity increases too quickly, or warm-ups are skipped. The good news is that most swimming-related injuries can be prevented with a few simple habits.

According to Dr. Dharam P. Pandey, Director, APARC Health & Motion, Premier Chain of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Care Provider, understanding these risks and taking preventive measures can help swimmers of all ages enjoy the sport without unnecessary setbacks.

Common Swimming Injuries In Children And Adults

Swimming injuries often develop gradually due to repetitive movements rather than sudden accidents.

In children, the most common causes include poor stroke technique, repetitive motion, and pushing beyond their physical limits too early. Shoulder pain—commonly known as "swimmer's shoulder"—is one of the most frequently reported issues. Breaststroke swimmers may also experience knee pain, while lower back discomfort is another common complaint.

Adults face many of the same overuse injuries but are also more likely to develop muscle strains, neck pain, and muscle cramps. These problems are especially common among people returning to swimming after a long break or those who suddenly increase the intensity or duration of their workouts.

Also Read: FSSAI Targets 6 Energy Drink Brands; Experts Link Them to Obesity, Liver Problems

Never Skip The Warm-Up

Many swimmers assume that simply getting into the water is enough to loosen up the body. In reality, muscles and joints perform much better when they are prepared beforehand.

A proper warm-up should include a few minutes of stretching along with gentle movements for the shoulders, neck, and legs. Once in the pool, swimmers should begin with easy laps before increasing speed or intensity. This gradual approach significantly lowers the risk of muscle strains and overuse injuries.

Technique Matters More Than Distance

Swimming longer distances is not always better if the technique is incorrect.

Poor stroke mechanics can place unnecessary stress on the shoulders, knees, and spine. Children benefit from proper supervision while learning swimming techniques, ensuring they develop correct movement patterns from the beginning.

Adults experiencing recurring discomfort should also consider improving their stroke technique instead of simply pushing through the pain. Good technique not only improves efficiency in the water but also plays a major role in preventing injuries.

Prevention Is Better Than Recovery

Swimming is an activity that people should be able to enjoy throughout their lives. Preventing injuries is far easier than recovering from them.

Following proper technique, warming up before every session, progressing gradually, staying hydrated, and paying attention to early signs of pain can help both children and adults remain active, healthy, and injury-free throughout the swimming season.