Tom’s Dietary History and Experimentation

I have six children – ages 14 through 50 – and the one joke I hear all the time is about my ‘diet’: “So what are you eating now, dad??” All my life, I’ve been curious to try different foods and regimens to see what works for me and what doesn’t.

I’d be embarrassed to admit how much time I’ve spent reading and researching over the years; even now, at 72, it continues. There wound up being an overall direction to it (if a bit meandering), and while it doesn’t change quite as often as it seems, the critique from my kids is fair.

Trying Out Different Diets Over the Years

I’ve been through lots of ‘phases’: In my teens, I followed some early Atkins ideas. In my late 20s and early 30s, I went strict vegan: making my own bread from organic stone-ground wheat, eating tofu and sprout sandwiches, and supplementing with spirulina and brewer’s yeast.

After about a year, I started struggling with fatigue while running 5+ miles a day. I added dairy back in, and things improved. I continued as a vegetarian for several years. One of my children, born during that time, is still vegetarian.

Struggles with Allergies, Headaches, and Sugar Cravings

Since age 19, I’d dealt with seasonal and year-round allergies, chronic headaches in my 30s and 40s, and fluctuating weight (between 165 and 230 lbs). I also had intense sugar cravings. Despite my efforts, I'd binge on any forgotten chocolate bar or tub of ice cream in the freezer.

Discovering the Benefits of a Low Carb Diet

In my late 40s, I cautiously tried the revamped Atkins diet. Despite years of avoiding red meat, I saw weight loss and felt better. I later tried South Beach with similar results but couldn’t maintain them. However, I noticed a big improvement during the "induction phase" (no grains). Adding back brown rice or whole wheat caused that benefit to fade.

Following the Paleo Diet and Going Keto

Around 2013, my wife mentioned the Paleo diet. I dove into the research and dropped grains. It made a major difference: fewer gut issues and better weight control.

Curiosity led me to keto. Though it initially seemed too radical, I committed in September 2016. I tracked every ounce of food and limited net carbs to 25-30 daily. My diet included huge leafy salads, no grains, sugars, or processed food.

Taking Control of Sugar Cravings: My Journey to a 'Cheat'-Free Diet

It was the first time I truly got sugar under control. I mountain biked with a younger, fitter friend. Despite the age gap, I improved steadily. I went from 200-210 lbs down to the mid-150s by December 2017 through keto, calorie tracking, and supplementation.
Intermittent fasting boosted my energy, mood, and stamina.

Embracing Zero Carb: Overcoming Fear and Misconceptions

I was intrigued by zero carb but hesitant. Would I get scurvy or become constipated? The turning point was Dr. Shawn Baker’s Joe Rogan interview. On December 11, 2017, I began a keto carnivore diet.

I dropped all vitamins, supplements, and even my nasal spray (used for decades). I tapered off Claritin (lifelong use) and have now been free of it for over 7 years. I had intended to return to keto, but never did. I had no reason to.

Notable Changes on the Keto Carnivore Diet

I now eat mostly beef, with occasional pork, chicken, fish, and some eggs. I feel best when I skip cheese altogether. I drink water, sometimes a small amount of coffee, and typically eat once a day. The fewer carbs I eat, the better I feel.  Only fat and protein are essential macros. As long as I feel good, I’ll stay the course.

Weight: Dropped from 153 to 147, then stabilized at 162 with muscle gain.

Joints: Long-standing neck and shoulder pain vanished during keto and rarely returns.

Headaches: Dramatically reduced; cheese seems to trigger the few that remain.

Energy: Initial boost was massive. Gym, kettlebells, and biking performance all improved.

Intestinal health: No more fiber supplements. Bloating, gas, and bathroom time all reduced.

Coffee: Now manageable and easier to taper.

Skin: Hydrated, odor-free, and breakout-free.

Mood: Calmer, less reactive (family's opinions may vary!).

Navigating Research and Taking Responsibility

Conventional wisdom is often more conventional than wise. The noise is loud, the debate is endless, and it’s easy to support any opinion online. I try to avoid dietary tribalism.  I test things for myself. Real-world results mean more than headlines. I trust true scientific inquiry, not just popular narratives.

Unexpected Benefits and Lasting Change

Too many people are scared off by fear-mongering. But there is solid support for LCHF and keto carnivore diets. I’m grateful for Shawn and others who empower people to explore without pressure.  It’s fun to keep learning. And at 72, I’m not done yet.