Ross and Hugo Turner are human guinea pigs for their experiments
Identical twins often share uncanny similarities, from personality quirks to physical attributes. But what happens when you deliberately introduce a major dietary divergence? Ross and Hugo Turner, known for their adventurous experiments with the human body, decided to find out by embarking on a 12-week dietary trial, each adopting drastically different approaches to carbohydrate and fat intake.
The Experiment: Carb vs. Fat
The premise was simple: Ross would follow a high-fat, low-carb ketogenic diet, while Hugo would adhere to a high-carb, low-fat diet. Both brothers are passionate about fitness and documenting their experiences, making them ideal subjects for this type of investigation. Before starting, they underwent extensive health assessments, including blood tests, body composition analysis, and metabolic rate measurements. These baselines would serve as crucial reference points for comparing their results after the 12-week period.
The brothers are known for performing experiments on their bodies (Instagram/@theturnertwiins)
Ross’s Keto Journey: Embracing Fat as Fuel
Ross’s ketogenic diet focused on consuming plenty of healthy fats, moderate protein, and very few carbohydrates. This forced his body to enter a state of ketosis, where it primarily burns fat for energy instead of glucose. He diligently tracked his macros, prioritizing sources like avocados, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish. The initial adjustment period often involves experiencing the “keto flu,” characterized by fatigue and headaches, but Ross persevered.
Hugo’s Carb-Laden Path: Fueling with Glucose
In contrast, Hugo’s high-carb, low-fat diet revolved around fueling his body with plenty of carbohydrates, limiting his fat intake. His meals consisted of rice, potatoes, fruits, and other carbohydrate-rich foods. Like Ross, he meticulously tracked his macros to ensure he stuck to the prescribed dietary guidelines.
The Shocking Results: Beyond Weight Loss
After 12 weeks, the results were surprisingly nuanced. Both brothers experienced weight loss, suggesting that both dietary approaches can be effective for this purpose. However, the key differences emerged in other health markers.
- Body Composition: While both lost weight, the distribution of fat and muscle loss differed.
- Cholesterol Levels: Ross, on the keto diet, experienced changes in his cholesterol levels, a common consequence of high-fat consumption.
- Gut Microbiome: Preliminary analysis showed alterations in the gut microbiome of both twins, reflecting the distinct impact of their respective diets on the gut’s ecosystem.
- Energy Levels: Both reported fluctuations in energy levels throughout the experiment, highlighting the individual adaptation process to each diet.
Scientists found variations between the brother’s bodies but stressed a balanced diet is best overall (Getty Stock Images)
The Takeaway: No One-Size-Fits-All
This experiment, while not a scientifically rigorous controlled study, provides valuable insights into the individual responses to different macronutrient ratios. The Turner twins’ experience reinforces the idea that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to diet. What works well for one person may not be ideal for another. Factors such as genetics, activity levels, and individual metabolic responses play a significant role in determining the most effective dietary strategy. This experiment highlights the importance of personalized nutrition and emphasizes the need to consult with healthcare professionals before making drastic dietary changes. The twins’ journey serves as a compelling reminder that understanding your own body is paramount to achieving optimal health.
Featured Image Credit: Getty Stock Image/instagram :@theturnertwiins
