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.

FDA menopause hormone therapy: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced on Monday that it will remove the strictest “black box” warnings from hormone therapies used to manage menopause symptoms. The move could make these treatments more accessible to women and healthcare providers, who have long avoided them due to safety concerns.

FDA Commissioner Marty Makary said the decision comes after a thorough review of scientific research, feedback from an expert panel in July, and a public comment period.

"After 23 years of outdated caution, the FDA is now stepping back from the fear-based messaging that has kept women from this life-changing—and sometimes,life-saving—treatment," Makary said at a press briefing.

"We are responding to women who have been challenging the paternalistic approach in medicine, and to female medical students calling for better menopause education in medical training," he added.

The agency is also greenlighting two new treatments for menopausal symptoms. This includes a generic version of Pfizer’s Premarin and a non-hormonal option for moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms, like hot flashes.

What Is Hormone Replacement Therapy?

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a treatment for people experiencing menopause symptoms. Doctors may also call it hormone therapy (HT), especially when prescribed after age 50. Generally, “HRT” is used for people starting treatment at a younger age, often before 40.

During menopause, the ovaries produce less estrogen, which can lead to uncomfortable symptoms, including:

• Hot flashes
• Night sweats
• Vaginal dryness and painful intercourse
• Mood swings, irritability, or depression
• Insomnia
• Urinary incontinence

HRT works by replacing the hormones your body is no longer making enough of, helping to relieve these symptoms. It can also help prevent bone loss, such as osteoporosis and osteopenia, which can occur when estrogen levels drop.

Hormone Replacement Therapy: When Should You Start Hormone Therapy?

Dr. Joann Pinkerton, a menopause specialist at the University of Virginia Health, recommends starting estrogen therapy before age 60 or within ten years of the onset of menopause, which begins one year after your last period. Many women continue taking birth control through perimenopause, which can help manage hot flashes and night sweats as hormone levels fluctuate.

Once menopause is complete and pregnancy prevention is no longer a concern, continuing birth control may not make sense. “Birth control usually contains more estrogen than is used in menopause hormone therapy,” Pinkerton says, “so that’s a good time to discuss hormone therapy options with your provider.”

Menopause Hormone Therapy FDA: How Long Should You Be on Hormone Therapy?

Typically, women use hormone therapy for three to five years, though this is not a strict rule. “For those with ongoing symptoms or bone loss—which can be addressed with hormone therapy—we continue treatment,” Pinkerton explains. She emphasizes the importance of reviewing treatment annually. “It’s about working with each patient to find the safest and most effective approach.”

Lauren Streicher from Northwestern University, as per NPR, adds, “We don’t stop hormone therapy simply because three to five years have passed.” She notes that menopause symptoms can last longer for some women, with Black and Hispanic women often experiencing extended periods of discomfort.

HRT Therapy: Who Should Avoid Hormone Therapy?

Certain medical conditions can make hormone therapy risky. Women with estrogen-sensitive breast or uterine cancers, or those who have had, or are at high risk for heart attack, stroke, blood clots, or pulmonary embolism, should avoid HRT.

“Women need to have a detailed discussion with a knowledgeable healthcare provider,” Pinkerton says. “It’s crucial to understand what benefits and risks apply to you personally.”

Whether HRT is right for you is a conversation to have with your healthcare provider. While hormone therapy can ease menopausal symptoms, it carries potential risks. Discussing these benefits and risks with your doctor will help determine if HRT is suitable for your needs.

It’s almost second nature to reach for a painkiller the moment we feel a headache, backache, or joint pain. Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines like paracetamol or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, diclofenac, or naproxen are often our first line of relief.

While these drugs can be highly effective when taken correctly, using them too often or in large amounts may quietly harm your kidneys. To understand this better, we spoke with Dr. Ranjeet Singh, Professor and Head of General Medicine at NIIMS Medical College and Hospital, who explained the possible risks in detail.

What Are NSAIDs?

NSAIDs, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are a group of medicines that help reduce pain, inflammation, and fever. Unlike steroids, they target the chemicals in your body that trigger pain and swelling. They are often used to ease conditions like arthritis, muscle strain, and headaches.

Common examples include aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen, available both with and without a prescription, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

Painkillers And Kidney Failure: Is It Possible?

The kidneys serve as the body’s natural filtration system, removing excess fluids and waste. Dr. Ranjeet Singh explained, “NSAIDs block certain chemicals called prostaglandins that cause pain and inflammation. However, these same chemicals also help maintain healthy blood flow to the kidneys. When prostaglandin levels stay blocked for too long, the kidneys may receive less blood, which affects how well they filter.” Over time, this reduced blood flow can lead to analgesic nephropathy, a chronic form of kidney damage linked to long-term painkiller use.

Which Pain Medications Can Damage Your Kidneys?

Taking any pain medication irresponsibly, whether it’s aspirin, ibuprofen, acetaminophen, NSAIDs, or prescription opioids, can raise the risk of kidney damage. The biggest concern arises from consuming doses that are too high or using these medicines for longer than advised.

Among OTC options, NSAIDs carry the highest potential for long-term harm. Regular or excessive use may cause progressive kidney damage or even sudden kidney failure.

In fact, a 2019 study involving more than 764,000 U.S. Army personnel found that those who took over seven doses of NSAIDs per month had a noticeably higher chance of developing acute or chronic kidney disease.

Painkillers and Kidney Health: Who Is at Higher Risk?

According to Dr. Ranjeet Singh, certain groups are more vulnerable to kidney damage from painkillers:

• People with existing kidney disease or diabetes
• Older adults
• Individuals who are dehydrated or taking diuretics (commonly called “water pills”)
• Those who frequently use more than one type of painkiller

Warning Signs to Watch For

Pay attention to these symptoms, which could point to kidney problems:

• Unusual tiredness or weakness
• Swelling around the eyes or in the legs
• Reduced urine output
• Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite

Painkillers: Safe Use Tips

Always use the lowest dose that works, and for the shortest time possible.

Never combine different painkillers unless your doctor advises it.

Keep yourself well hydrated.

Consult your doctor before taking painkillers regularly, especially if you have an ongoing health condition.

Painkillers can be helpful when used correctly, but long-term or high-dose use can quietly harm your kidneys. If you often find yourself depending on these medicines, it is best to talk to a healthcare professional, your kidneys will thank you later.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is meant for general awareness and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking or changing any medication, especially if you have an existing health condition.

Diabetes is one of the chronic lifestyle conditions that most older adults fear developing, especially past the age of 40. This is when body's main source of energy or glucose is too high. However, recent cases show that diabetes may no longer be a disease of aging. While most people who are middle-aged or older adults develop Type 2 diabetes, there is in fact a rise in cases among the youth, including children.

As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), US, 352,000 children and adolescents younger than age 20 years in the US are diagnosed with diabetes. Furthermore, in the UK, the number of children with type 2 diabetes have risen by more than 50%, as noted by the NCBI data.

In India too, there is a sharp rise in diabetes across all age groups, with many cases going undiagnosed until complications set in, says Dr Mayanka Lodha Seth, chief pathologist at Redcliffe Labs. " Diabetes cases are rising not just among older adults but also in children, teenagers, and youngsters in their 20s & 30s," says the doctor.

Why The Youth Must Know?

The doctor also says that more often than not, scientific terminology could be confusing, even, scary, in such a scenario, it is important to break down the scientific jargon for them. Dr Mayanka Lodha Seth does exactly that. He presents with the 'Five Must Knows' from what he calls a Diabetes Dictionary.

HbA1c: HbA1c reflects your average blood sugar levels over the past 2–3 months, showing how well your body has been managing glucose. This can be considered as your long-term report card and not just a day’s blood analysis.

Insulin Resistance: Insulin Resistance happens when your body stops responding properly to insulin; the hormone that helps use sugar for energy. So, even with enough insulin, sugar stays in your blood instead of fueling your cells, slowly raising your risk of diabetes.

Glycemic Index (GI): GI tells you how quickly a food raises your blood sugar after eating it. Foods with a low GI keep your energy steady, while high GI foods cause quick spikes and crashes in blood sugar.

Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS): Fasting blood sugar is your body's early morning status update. It reveals how effectively your body manages blood sugar after several hours of fasting.

Prediabetes: Prediabetes means your blood sugar is starting to creep up; not diabetes yet, but your body’s giving you a gentle nudge to pay attention. It’s the perfect stage to turn things around with small, healthy changes.

Why knowing these terms are necessary? The doctor says that knowing these terms will help the young patient keep a track of their sugar levels, and also to catch problems early.

Are There Ways To Manage Sugar Levels?

The doctor says yes. The doctor suggests simple steps, such as consuming low GI (≤55) foods on a regular basis, can help regulate sugar levels and prevent sudden sugar spikes. "These foods include oats, lentils, apples, milk, yogurt, green vegetables, and sweet potatoes. Additionally, high-GI foods like white bread, white rice, cornflakes, potatoes, pastries, sugary drinks,, and other junk and fried foods should be avoided. Besides regulating eating habits, simple steps such as regular exercise, brisk walking, and stress management can help control sugar levels."