Dr. Paul Saladino vs Ben Greenfield

Compare Dr. Paul Saladino's animal-based protocol with Ben Greenfield's longevity protocol. Both draw from ancestral health principles and reject mainstream dietary dogma — but Saladino builds his protocol around nose-to-tail animal nutrition while eliminating most plant foods, whereas Greenfield embraces a broader biohacking toolkit including adaptogens, functional mushrooms, cold/heat exposure, and exogenous ketones alongside ancestral eating. They share key supplements but diverge sharply on plant food inclusion.

Side-by-Side Comparison

CategoryDr. Paul SaladinoBen Greenfield
TitleMD, Carnivore Diet Pioneer & AuthorExercise Physiologist & Biohacker
Focus Areas
animal basedcarnivorenutritionorgan meatsancestral healthsupplementsseed oil free
longevitybiohackingsupplementsancestral healthfitnessadaptogens
Total Products1215
Shared Products7 products in common
ProtocolAn animal-based nutrition protocol prioritizing organ meats, pasture-raised eggs, raw dairy, fruit, and honey while eliminating seed oils, grains, and plant toxins — built on the premise that animal foods provide the most bioavailable nutrition for human physiology.A comprehensive longevity protocol blending ancestral health practices with advanced biohacking — including targeted supplementation, cold and heat exposure, metabolic flexibility training, and a deep functional mushroom and adaptogen stack.

What They Agree On

Both Dr. Paul Saladino and Ben Greenfield include these 7 products in their protocols — a signal of strong evidence and broad expert consensus.

Creatine Monohydrate

Pure creatine monohydrate, one of the most well-researched supplements in sports science. Supports muscle strength, power output, and emerging research suggests cognitive benefits. Safe for long-term daily use at 3-5 grams per day.

Creatine Monohydrate

supplements

Omega-3 Fish Oil (High EPA)

High-potency omega-3 fish oil supplement with elevated EPA content. Supports cardiovascular health, reduces systemic inflammation, and promotes healthy brain function and mood regulation.

Omega-3 Fish Oil (High EPA)

supplements

Magnesium (Threonate/Glycinate)

Highly bioavailable magnesium in threonate or glycinate form for superior absorption. Supports deep sleep quality, cognitive function, and nervous system relaxation. Magnesium threonate is particularly valued for its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier.

Magnesium (Threonate/Glycinate)

supplements

Electrolyte Mix

Balanced electrolyte mix containing sodium, potassium, and magnesium to support hydration and cellular function. Essential for maintaining energy levels, muscle function, and cognitive performance, especially during fasting or exercise. Sugar-free formulas are preferred in longevity protocols.

Electrolyte Mix

supplements

Bovine Colostrum

Grass-fed bovine colostrum rich in immunoglobulins, lactoferrin, and growth factors. Supports gut barrier integrity, immune function, and recovery from intense exercise. Increasingly popular in longevity circles for its ability to reduce intestinal permeability and modulate inflammation.

Bovine Colostrum

supplements

Vitamin D3 (5000 IU)

High-potency vitamin D3 supplement providing 5000 IU per serving to support optimal blood levels. Essential for immune function, bone health, and mood regulation. One of the most widely recommended supplements among longevity researchers due to widespread deficiency.

Vitamin D3 (5000 IU)

supplements

Collagen Peptides

Hydrolyzed collagen peptides that support skin elasticity, joint health, and connective tissue repair. Easily dissolved in hot or cold liquids for convenient daily supplementation.

Collagen Peptides

supplements

Where They Differ

These products are unique to one protocol — reflecting each expert's distinct philosophy, research focus, and priorities.

Dr. Paul Saladino

Only in Dr. Paul Saladino's Protocol

Organ Meats (Grass-Fed)

Nutrient-dense organ meats from grass-fed animals, including liver, heart, and kidney. Organ meats are among the most bioavailable sources of B vitamins, iron, zinc, copper, and fat-soluble vitamins A and D. Available fresh or as convenient desiccated capsules for those who prefer not to cook them.

Pasture-Raised Eggs

Pasture-raised eggs are a nutrient-dense whole food providing complete protein, healthy fats, choline, and fat-soluble vitamins. Among protein sources, eggs produce one of the lowest insulin responses — making them a preferred choice in Dr. Jason Fung's protocol for meals that support metabolic health and stable blood sugar.

Raw Honey

Raw, unprocessed honey retains its full spectrum of enzymes, antioxidants, and antimicrobial compounds that are destroyed by pasteurization. Used for thousands of years as both food and medicine, raw honey provides a whole-food source of glucose and fructose along with beneficial polyphenols and prebiotics that support gut health.

Wild-Caught Salmon

Wild-caught salmon is one of the best whole-food sources of omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. Rich in high-quality protein, astaxanthin, and vitamin D, it supports cardiovascular and brain health. Consuming fatty fish 2-3 times per week is a cornerstone recommendation across longevity protocols.

Bone Broth

Nutrient-dense broth made by simmering animal bones for extended periods. Rich in collagen, glycine, and minerals. Frequently recommended by Dr. Jason Fung as one of the best fasting aids — it provides electrolytes and a small amount of protein to ease hunger during extended fasts without significantly raising insulin.

Zinc (Picolinate)

Zinc picolinate supplement offering superior absorption compared to other zinc forms. Supports immune function, hormone production, and wound healing. Important for maintaining testosterone levels and thyroid health, particularly in those with dietary deficiencies.

Ben Greenfield

Only in Ben Greenfield's Protocol

Ashwagandha (KSM-66)

KSM-66 ashwagandha root extract, the most clinically studied form of this traditional adaptogenic herb. Supports healthy cortisol levels, reduces perceived stress, and may improve sleep quality and exercise recovery. Widely used in longevity protocols for its effects on hormonal balance and resilience to chronic stress.

Cordyceps Mushroom Extract

Concentrated cordyceps militaris mushroom extract standardized for cordycepin and adenosine content. Traditionally used to support endurance, oxygen utilization, and cellular energy production. Modern research suggests benefits for aerobic capacity and mitochondrial function.

Lion's Mane Mushroom Extract

Dual-extracted lion's mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) containing both hericenones and erinacines, compounds shown to stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) production. Supports cognitive function, memory, and neuroplasticity. A staple in nootropic and longevity stacks for its unique neurotrophic properties.

Exogenous Ketones (BHB Salts)

Beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) salt supplement that rapidly elevates blood ketone levels without requiring extended fasting or strict carbohydrate restriction. Supports mental clarity, sustained energy, and may enhance endurance performance. Used as a bridging tool for metabolic flexibility in biohacking protocols.

Essential Amino Acids (EAAs)

Complete essential amino acid formula providing all nine EAAs in research-backed ratios. Supports muscle protein synthesis, recovery, and lean body composition with minimal caloric load. Preferred over BCAAs alone because the full EAA profile is required for complete protein turnover and tissue repair.

Molecular Hydrogen Tablets

Effervescent tablets that dissolve in water to produce molecular hydrogen (H2) gas. Molecular hydrogen acts as a selective antioxidant, neutralizing hydroxyl radicals without disrupting beneficial reactive oxygen species. Emerging research suggests benefits for exercise recovery, inflammation reduction, and mitochondrial health.

Quercetin

Quercetin is a plant flavonoid with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Supports immune function, cardiovascular health, and has been studied as a senolytic agent that helps clear damaged senescent cells. Often combined with vitamin C or bromelain to enhance absorption.

Glutathione (Liposomal)

Liposomal glutathione supplement for enhanced absorption of the body's master antioxidant. Glutathione plays a critical role in detoxification, immune support, and protecting cells from oxidative stress. Liposomal delivery bypasses digestive breakdown for greater bioavailability.

Product Comparison

ProductDr. Paul SaladinoBen Greenfield
Creatine MonohydrateRecommendedRecommended
Omega-3 Fish Oil (High EPA)RecommendedRecommended
Magnesium (Threonate/Glycinate)RecommendedRecommended
Electrolyte MixRecommendedRecommended
Bovine ColostrumRecommendedRecommended
Vitamin D3 (5000 IU)RecommendedRecommended
Collagen PeptidesRecommendedRecommended
Organ Meats (Grass-Fed)Recommended---
Pasture-Raised EggsRecommended---
Raw HoneyRecommended---
Wild-Caught SalmonRecommended---
Bone BrothRecommended---
Ashwagandha (KSM-66)---Recommended
Cordyceps Mushroom Extract---Recommended
Lion's Mane Mushroom Extract---Recommended
Exogenous Ketones (BHB Salts)---Recommended
Essential Amino Acids (EAAs)---Recommended

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Dr. Paul Saladino's and Ben Greenfield's protocols?

Compare Dr. Paul Saladino's animal-based protocol with Ben Greenfield's longevity protocol. Both draw from ancestral health principles and reject mainstream dietary dogma — but Saladino builds his protocol around nose-to-tail animal nutrition while eliminating most plant foods, whereas Greenfield embraces a broader biohacking toolkit including adaptogens, functional mushrooms, cold/heat exposure, and exogenous ketones alongside ancestral eating. They share key supplements but diverge sharply on plant food inclusion.

What do Dr. Paul Saladino and Ben Greenfield both recommend?

Both experts recommend Creatine Monohydrate, Omega-3 Fish Oil (High EPA), Magnesium (Threonate/Glycinate), Electrolyte Mix, Bovine Colostrum, Vitamin D3 (5000 IU), Collagen Peptides. These shared recommendations carry extra weight because they represent consensus across two independent, well-informed approaches to longevity.

Which protocol is better for beginners?

Both protocols can be adapted for beginners. Start with the fundamentals both experts agree on — Creatine Monohydrate, Omega-3 Fish Oil (High EPA), Magnesium (Threonate/Glycinate), Electrolyte Mix, Bovine Colostrum, Vitamin D3 (5000 IU), Collagen Peptides — then gradually explore the unique elements of each protocol based on your specific health goals and budget.

All Products From Both Protocols

Creatine Monohydrate

supplements

Omega-3 Fish Oil (High EPA)

supplements

Magnesium (Threonate/Glycinate)

supplements

Electrolyte Mix

supplements

Bovine Colostrum

supplements

Vitamin D3 (5000 IU)

supplements

Collagen Peptides

supplements

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Organ Meats (Grass-Fed)

foods

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Pasture-Raised Eggs

foods

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Raw Honey

foods

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Wild-Caught Salmon

foods

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Bone Broth

foods

Zinc (Picolinate)

supplements

Ashwagandha (KSM-66)

supplements

Cordyceps Mushroom Extract

supplements

Lion's Mane Mushroom Extract

supplements

Exogenous Ketones (BHB Salts)

supplements

Essential Amino Acids (EAAs)

supplements

Molecular Hydrogen Tablets

supplements

Quercetin

supplements

Glutathione (Liposomal)

supplements

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