Episode 39: What a 60-Day Whole Foods vs Carnivore Experiment Revealed

In this episode of Discovering Nutrition, Eliisa sits down with performance dietitian and coach Andres Ayesta to unpack a unique 60-day experiment that tested two very different ways of eating. For the first 30 days, Andres followed a strictly whole foods diet. Then, for the next 30, he transitioned into a carnivore diet and kept everything else as controlled as possible. Calories and protein were matched across both phases, and every detail was tracked using Cronometer, lab testing, wearables, and performance metrics.

The conversation dives into how each diet impacted his energy, mood, training, recovery, biomarkers, and mindset. Andres shares which phase felt easier, which one brought surprising benefits, and where things took a turn. They also explore the real-life challenges of eating in social settings, the risks of extreme restriction, and what happens when nutrition experiments have unexpected aftereffects.

Whether you’re exploring a new way of eating or just curious about what the data can reveal, this episode offers thoughtful insight and real-world takeaways.

Key Notes & Takeaways:

• 30 days of Whole Foods followed by 30 days of carnivore, with calories and protein kept consistent
• All variables were tightly tracked using Cronometer, DEXA scans, blood panels, metabolic testing, and WHOOP data
• Fat loss was nearly identical on both diets, reinforcing the role of calorie control over diet style
• Whole Foods proved more sustainable long term, with fewer social limitations and rebound effects

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www.andresayesta.com/