A 50-year-old man from Florida, Stephen Lashbrook, has spoken about how adopting a ‘lion diet’ radically changed his life. Lashbrook, from Pensacola, struggled for years with severe psoriasis, chronic pain, and depression. His challenges began as early as four years old and intensified with age.
In his teens, Lashbrook faced ongoing pain and insomnia. By his early 20s, he was diagnosed with psoriasis, a skin condition caused by immune system issues. Lashbrook described his condition as being 90% covered in itchy, flaky patches.
Medical treatments such as creams, steroids, and medications provided little relief for him. Doctors suggested costly, long-term injections to address inflammation, leaving Lashbrook feeling hopeless. He eventually considered extreme dietary changes.
“I was just one big, giant, itchy, flaky scab,” commented Lashbrook.
Mikhaila Peterson’s Influence
Lashbrook discovered a TED Talk by Mikhaila Peterson, daughter of Canadian psychologist Jordan Peterson. Mikhaila spoke about managing her own health issues through a meat-only diet. This inspired Lashbrook to try the same approach.
Initially, he removed sugar, grains, fruits, and vegetables from his diet. On January 1, 2024, he fully embraced the ‘lion diet,’ which focuses on eating ruminant animal meat like beef, lamb, and goat.
Remarkable Changes
Within a week of starting the diet, Lashbrook’s itching and suicidal thoughts diminished. After a month, his skin improved, and his pain lessened. He eats one meal per day, approximately 1.5 to 2 pounds of high-fat ground beef, often cooked in an air fryer.
“All my skin issues cleared up. I haven’t had any depression,” he reported.
Cautions and Considerations
Lashbrook emphasizes his experience as unique and acknowledges that the lion diet may not suit everyone. He gauges his health by how he feels rather than regular medical check-ups.
Dr. Michael Aziz, a New York-based internist, notes that while reducing sugar and processed foods can benefit some, a carnivore diet’s long-term effects are uncertain. He highlights potential risks like constipation, kidney stones, and heart issues due to low fiber intake.
Diet Popularity
Despite criticism, meat-centric diets attract attention, particularly among those wanting to avoid ultra-processed foods. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. reportedly follows a similar diet, attributing weight loss and mental clarity to it.
Lashbrook will share his experience at Carni-Con, a virtual event focused on carnivorous diets. The convention, featuring doctors and diet advocates, runs from September 18 to 20.
“The stories are what’s most important,” emphasized Lashbrook.
Deirdre Bardolf writes about lifestyle topics for Fox News Digital.
Leave a Reply