Biohacker and entrepreneur Bryan Johnson, known for his extreme longevity experiments, recently made a startling revelation about his past diet.
Re-sharing a video by Itay Shechter, he claimed that he started life on a ‘petroleum diet’ before transitioning to what he now considers one of the healthiest lifestyles in the world. In a reel posted on Instagram, he said, “I’m one of the healthiest people in the entire world and guess what? I started life on the petroleum diet, it’s not good for you. But you know what? If that’s where you’re at, it’s okay. One step at a time. Make better life choices.”
While the phrase might sound extreme, it refers to the highly processed, ultra-processed, and artificial foods that many people unknowingly consume daily.
From preservatives to synthetic additives, many modern diets contain elements derived from petroleum-based chemicals. While they enhance shelf life and flavour, the long-term effects on health remain a growing concern.
But what exactly does the ‘petroleum diet’ entail, and why is it considered harmful?
Isha Lall, holistic nutritionist and wellness coach, says, “It’s a reality for millions who unknowingly consume petroleum-derived additives daily.”
She adds that many processed foods contain additives derived from petroleum. Some of the most common include:
Artificial food dyes (like Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1): Linked to hyperactivity ADD, ADHD in children and even have potential carcinogenic effects.
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Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA) & Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT): Preservatives found in cereals and snack foods that may disrupt hormones.
Propyl Gallate: Used to extend shelf life but has been flagged for potential toxicity.
TBHQ (Tertiary Butylhydroquinone): A synthetic antioxidant that may contribute to neurological and immune issues.
Signs that you might be overly reliant on processed foods
According to Lall, some signs of excessive ultra-processed food consumption include energy crashes and constant cravings due to a lack of fiber and protein, leading to blood sugar spikes. Skin issues like acne and inflammation can arise from artificial additives and excess sugar. Digestive troubles such as bloating, sluggish digestion, or irregular bowel movements may signal an imbalanced gut microbiome. Additionally, processed ingredients can negatively impact mental clarity and emotional stability, leading to brain fog and mood swings.
How to transition to a healthier diet
Here are some strategies suggested by Lall:
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Ditch the fakes, embrace the real: Replace packaged snacks with whole foods like nuts, seeds, grains and fresh fruit.
Read the fine print: If an ingredient list sounds like a chemistry experiment, it’s probably best avoided.
Make your kitchen your best friend: Cooking at home gives you full control over what’s on your plate.
Think colourful, eat colourful: Fill your plate with vibrant, nutrient-dense foods that nourish from the inside out.
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Take it one step at a time: Change doesn’t happen overnight, but small shifts add up to big results.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
