The BEST Protein comes from a CAN!? | Protein Tier List | Gut Instincts

Summary

In this episode of 'Gut Instincts,' Dr. Steven Gundry ranks various protein sources and meat alternatives based on their impact on gut health. He critiques common foods like boneless skinless chicken breasts, deli meats, tofu, and plant-based burgers, while promoting healthier options such as wild-caught salmon, shellfish, eggs, and fermented soy products like tempeh. Dr. Gundry emphasizes the importance of mindful choices when it comes to protein and urges viewers to avoid processed and lectin-rich foods to maintain optimal gut health. The episode provides valuable insights for those seeking a lectin-free lifestyle.

Takeaways

• 😀 Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are unhealthy due to Omega-6 inflammatory fats and a lack of nutrients found in the skin, placing them in the D category.
• 😀 Turkey breasts, especially deli varieties, often contain gluten and can have similar health issues as chicken, also landing in the D category.
• 😀 Beef and pork, typically fed corn and soybeans, contain a sugar molecule (new 5GC) that can negatively affect health, placing them in the B category at best.
• 😀 Farm-raised Atlantic salmon is heavily processed and unhealthy, while wild-caught salmon is considered a superfood.
• 😀 Tuna, specifically light canned tuna, is a safe protein option, low in mercury, and classified as a superfood.
• 😀 Shellfish are considered a superfood due to their unique fats, provided they are consumed at the right time and aren't causing allergic reactions.
• 😀 Farmed shrimp often contains antibiotics and should be avoided, while wild shrimp is a healthier option and falls in the A category.
• 😀 Deli meats, particularly those prepared in the U.S., contain gluten and unhealthy additives, making them a poor choice for gut health.
• 😀 Eggs, especially pastured or omega-3 varieties, are a great source of protein and healthy fats for most people, despite some autoimmune sensitivities.
• 😀 Tofu is highly processed and contains harmful lectins, so it's considered an F food, while tempeh, a fermented soy product, is much healthier and a good protein source.

Q & A

Why are boneless, skinless chicken breasts considered unhealthy according to Dr. Gundry?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are considered unhealthy because most of the chicken is fed corn and soybeans, which lead to the presence of inflammatory Omega-6 fats. Additionally, the healthiest part of the chicken, the skin, is discarded.

What is the issue with turkey breasts, especially those from the deli section?

Turkey breasts, especially from the deli section, are often processed with gluten and can be fed an unnatural diet of corn and soybeans. Dr. Gundry recommends pastured turkey as a healthier alternative.

Why does Dr. Gundry advise against eating beef and pork regularly?

Dr. Gundry advises against eating beef and pork regularly due to the presence of a sugar molecule called Neu5Gc, which can negatively affect blood vessels, joints, and even increase cancer risk. Additionally, these animals are often fed corn and soybeans, which compromises their health benefits.

What makes wild-caught Alaskan salmon a better choice over farmed salmon?

Wild-caught Alaskan salmon is considered healthier because farmed salmon are fed grain-based diets instead of their natural food, krill, and are often artificially colored. Wild-caught salmon is free from these issues.

Why does Dr. Gundry recommend avoiding most deli meats?

Most deli meats, even those labeled as healthy or with Italian names, are not properly fermented and contain gluten and other harmful compounds. These meats are often processed in unhealthy ways that make them unsuitable for a gut-healthy diet.

What are the benefits of eating eggs from pastured or omega-3 fed chickens?

Eggs from pastured or omega-3 fed chickens provide high-quality protein and omega-3 fats, which are beneficial for overall health. Dr. Gundry emphasizes choosing eggs from chickens that are fed flax seeds or algae to maximize these benefits.

Why is tofu considered unhealthy in Dr. Gundry's ranking?

Tofu is considered unhealthy because it contains lectins from soybeans, which can cause gut issues. It is also not a fermented product like miso, which would help mitigate the negative effects of soy.

What makes seitan (vital wheat gluten) an undesirable choice for Dr. Gundry?

Seitan is made entirely from vital wheat gluten, which Dr. Gundry identifies as a major cause of intestinal permeability (leaky gut). As such, he advises avoiding seitan in favor of healthier alternatives.

What is the difference between tempeh and tofu, and why is tempeh considered better?

Tempeh is made from fermented soybeans, which breaks down harmful lectins and makes it a healthier choice compared to tofu. Dr. Gundry suggests that pure soy tempeh, especially when not mixed with grains, is a safe and beneficial option.

Why are plant-based processed meats like the Impossible Burger considered unhealthy?

Dr. Gundry argues that plant-based processed meats, such as the Impossible Burger, are made from soy or pea proteins, which are highly processed. Additionally, they often contain omega-6 oils and glyphosate (Roundup), making them unsuitable for a gut-healthy diet.