194. Animal-based vs. Ray Peat diet, a conversation with Georgi Dinkov

Chronic Stress

Chronic stress has far-reaching effects on our health, contributing to numerous diseases. Georgi Dinkov explains that high levels of serotonin, while initially adaptive, can lead to fibrosis and other health issues when chronically elevated 1. He also highlights the concept of chronic, unpredictable, mild stress (CUMS), which is linked to depression, bipolar disorders, and other mental health conditions 1. This model, widely accepted in animal research, mirrors the mental states of humans under constant low-grade stress.

We as a society are not ready to accept that our lifestyle is killing us. Whether it's economically or politically, we are not ready to admit that what we do daily is driving us into chronic disease.

--- Georgi Dinkov

Dinkov emphasizes that our environment and lifestyle, rather than genetics, are primary contributors to these health issues 2.

   

Stress Hormones

Stress hormones like cortisol and serotonin play crucial roles in our health. Georgi Dinkov notes that elevated cortisol levels, whether from synthetic drugs or endogenous production, can lead to serious health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, and neurodegenerative disorders 3. He also discusses how serotonin, once thought to be beneficial, can cause psychosis and other mental health issues when excessively high 4.

Elevated endogenous cortisol can cause trouble. We have Cushing's disease, caused by high endogenous cortisol, with symptoms mirroring the side effects of synthetic glucocorticoids.

--- Georgi Dinkov

Dinkov stresses the importance of recognizing these hormones' dual roles in both protecting and potentially harming our health 3.