Biohacker Dave Asprey Advocates for Strategic Carbohydrate Consumption Rather Than Elimination
Dave Asprey, founder of the biohacking movement, argues that carbohydrates should not be avoided entirely and that he maintains low body fat while eating carbs regularly by following specific rules. The anti-carb movement gained prominence in the 1970s with Dr. Robert Atkins' ketosis theory and resurged in the 1990s, but Asprey now distances himself from strict keto diets. His approach emphasizes selecting low-toxin carbs, preparing them correctly, and pairing them strategically to avoid blood sugar spikes and weight gain.
Dave Asprey, founder of the biohacking movement, challenges the decades-long demonization of carbohydrates in America, arguing that the problem lies not with carbs themselves but with how people consume them. Asprey, who maintains 6.5-7% body fat while eating carbs daily, previously championed the high-fat, low-carb "Bulletproof diet" and helped popularize intermittent fasting and cyclical ketosis, but now advocates against strict keto diets, citing research showing they can elevate cholesterol, increase arterial plaque-building compounds, and harm gut bacteria. He recommends three key strategies: choosing low-toxin carbs like white rice and low-fructose fruits over wheat and ultra-processed grains; preparing carbs correctly through methods like cooling cooked rice to create resistant starch; and pairing carbs strategically with foods like MCT oil. While acknowledging that some research supports keto diets for specific conditions like drug-resistant epilepsy, Asprey contends that most people benefit from including at least some carbohydrates in their diet.
What's missing
The article relies heavily on Asprey's personal claims and recommendations without substantial independent scientific validation. While one study on keto diet effects is cited, broader peer-reviewed evidence comparing Asprey's specific carb-selection and preparation methods to conventional nutritional guidance is not presented. The long-term health outcomes of his approach are not documented.
What different sources said
- New York PostRight
How to eat carbs like a biohacker — without gaining weight
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