Unholy Trinity Food Rule

A deep dive into how ultra-processed foods, particularly those containing sugar, processed grains, and seed oils, have transformed the American diet and health outcomes.

The Historical Shift in American Diet

• Three key pillars of modern American diet didn't exist 120 years ago:
  • Processed sugar (consumption increased 100x from 100 years ago)
  • Seed oils (top source of American calories)
  • Processed grains (became prevalent after WWII)

The Corporate Origins

• Seed oils were created by John D. Rockefeller

  • Originally an oil lubricant byproduct
  • Lobbied USDA to approve for human consumption
  • Now the top source of American calories

• Processed food industry was created by cigarette companies

  • In 1980s, as smoking declined, tobacco companies became largest food companies
  • Philip Morris still owns Kraft
  • Used similar addictive ingredients and marketing tactics

The European Difference

• Same brands have different ingredients in Europe vs. US

  • European products have significantly fewer ingredients
  • Example: Kellogg's changes formulation completely for American kids
  • US products contain more addictive ingredients and harmful colorings

• Regulatory Philosophy

  • Europe: Default "no" to ingredients unless proven safe
  • US: System is rigged through industry lobbying
  • US allows thousands of ingredients banned in Europe

The Solution: The One Food Rule

• Primary rule: Reduce ultra-processed food consumption

  • Currently 70% of American diet is ultra-processed
  • Focus on whole foods instead
  • Look for quality in food sources (e.g., grass-fed vs. grain-fed meat)

• Practical Implementation

  • Shop at quality grocers (Whole Foods, Sprouts)
  • Look for pasture-raised eggs
  • Choose grass-fed, pasture-raised meats
  • Buy organic vegetables (avoid glyphosate and pesticides)
  • Avoid the "unholy trinity" of:
    • Added sugar
    • Processed grains
    • Seed oils