Dr. Anthony Chaffee hosts a discussion with Professor László Boros on the Plant-Free MD podcast, focusing on the science of deuteronomics (D-tomics). This emerging field studies the role of deuterium, a heavy isotope of hydrogen, in human health, chronic diseases, and biology. Deuterium, due to its larger atomic size and mass, affects biochemical reactions in the body, particularly in mitochondria, which are central to energy production. High levels of deuterium disrupt these processes, leading to cellular damage, metabolic dysfunction, and chronic diseases. A carnivorous diet, rich in low-deuterium animal products from grass-fed sources, is emphasized as an effective strategy for maintaining optimal deuterium levels and enhancing mitochondrial health.
Professor Boros elaborates on recent advancements in D-tomics, including research at UCLA, collaborations with other institutions, and studies on athletes and emergency workers. A key highlight is the publication of a peer-reviewed thesis by Nicole Kinski, exploring deuterium’s role in diseases and its regulation through diet. These findings emphasize how dietary sources, particularly grass-fed animal products, help mitigate deuterium overload. Boros also discusses collaborations with athletes like Alex McDonald, who achieved extraordinary physical feats on a carnivorous, deuterium-depleting lifestyle, showcasing the diet’s potential to improve endurance, performance, and recovery.
The conversation delves into how deuterium impacts different tissues, particularly collagen and bone. Certain amino acids like proline and hydroxyproline in connective tissues naturally accumulate higher levels of deuterium, enhancing their strength and resilience in demanding environments. This adaptation is evident in species like seals and falcons, whose high-performance tissues are optimized for survival. Boros connects these biological mechanisms to human health, highlighting how deuterium regulation can improve sports performance and prevent chronic diseases.
Emergency workers, particularly firefighters, are a focus due to their disrupted circadian rhythms and metabolic stress. Professor Boros outlines how these factors increase deuterium accumulation, leading to early onset of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart issues. He suggests practical solutions, such as deuterium-depleting water and dietary interventions, to mitigate these risks. The discussion underscores the importance of sleep and ketogenic states in naturally lowering deuterium levels, further linking lifestyle and health outcomes.
Boros concludes with a call to integrate D-tomics into medical diagnostics, public health policies, and food quality assurance. He advocates for food labeling to include deuterium content, enabling informed dietary choices. The growing body of research highlights the pivotal role of deuterium in health, disease prevention, and longevity. Boros’s ongoing work aims to expand awareness and applications of D-tomics, promoting a carnivorous, grass-fed diet as a foundation for health optimization. The podcast emphasizes the need for further research and collaboration to harness the full potential of this science.