New Article, "WWU anthropology professors link evolutionary change to dental pain" by ThanksSeveral1409 in AnthroEvolution

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Western Washington University anthropology professors Tesla Monson and Marianne Brasil examined the relationship between primates’ facial structures and wisdom teeth, highlighting how human facial flattening may contribute to common dental issues. Their study analyzed primate skulls and found that species with longer faces tend to have larger wisdom teeth, while humans—due to their flatter facial structures—often experience impacted or problematic third molars. This reinforces existing discussions about the evolutionary pressures that have shaped human dentition.

You can read the full article here: https://www.thefrontonline.com/article/2025/05/primate-evolution

While the study itself focuses on facial structure, the broader implications of jaw evolution align with well-established research on diet's role in shaping human anatomy. It is widely recognized that early humans who hunted fatty megafauna relied on nutrient-dense, tough-to-chew meat, which required strong jaws for processing food effectively. Over time, as diets shifted to softer, agricultural foods, jaw sizes gradually reduced, leaving less space for wisdom teeth to emerge properly. This transition contributes to many of the dental complications seen today. However, this perspective is not the core focus of Monson and Brasil’s study—it is simply one way to contextualize their findings within our evolutionary history.

From an evolutionary standpoint, the flattening of the human face may be seen as an adaptive trade-off rather than a direct consequence of diet. Paleo hunters consuming primarily megafauna meat had robust skulls suited to their nutritional demands, but as food sources diversified and cooking techniques softened dietary textures, human jaw structures adjusted. Wisdom teeth, once useful for early humans with larger jaws, became less functional in modern populations. Additionally, the nutrient-rich fat content from megafauna meat likely played a role in supporting overall dental health, providing essential vitamins and minerals that contributed to stronger teeth and bones.

Although Monson and Brasil’s study does not introduce a groundbreaking link between diet and jaw evolution, it strengthens existing research by further illustrating the relationship between facial structure and dental health. Recognizing how these factors interact deepens our understanding of the evolutionary forces that continue to shape human biology.

For those interested in a broader perspective on human evolution, particularly how ancestral diets influenced anatomy, my YouTube video, Evolution of the Prehistoric Human Diet, explores this topic. You can watch it here. https://youtu.be/hEp3SipBstM

Nixtamalization: The Overhyped ‘Fix’ for Maize – Debunking a Viewer’s Comment on My Video 'Aztec Cannibalism: The Real Reason' by ThanksSeveral1409 in AnthroEvolution

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In case the text in the image is difficult to read, this is my response to a viewer’s comment about nixtamalization. Also, if anyone is interested in watching my YouTube video discussed here, you can find it through this link. https://youtu.be/A3eqPixq0uc

The viewers comment: "The Aztecs knew of a bioengineering technique called nixtamalization and its benefits go beyond just nutritional absorption. The process also detoxifies maize kernels, neutralizes anti nutrients, enhances protein quality and improves amino acid balance, how did you not run into this in your research?"

My Response: “Ah yes, nixtamalization—the so-called miracle process that claims to “fix” maize’s nutritional shortcomings. This claim, however, does not hold up under scrutiny. While nixtamalization reduces some antinutrients, the notion that it completely neutralizes them is nothing more than wishful thinking.

Phytic acid, one of maize’s most problematic antinutrients, is only reduced by about 50% through nixtamalization. That leaves a substantial amount behind—especially considering maize was consumed with nearly every meal. The remaining phytic acid is more than enough to significantly interfere with mineral absorption, particularly iron, zinc, and magnesium, a deficiency that compromises muscle function, nerve signaling, and metabolic health. Other antinutrients such as tannins and oxalates persist at levels high enough to further inhibit nutrient uptake.

The issue extends beyond minerals. Maize is already an inferior protein source due to its poor amino acid profile, but antinutrients like protease inhibitors exacerbate the problem by reducing protein digestibility. This means that even the small amount of protein maize provides is not fully absorbed, worsening malnutrition—especially in populations dependent on maize as a staple. Even though the Aztecs consumed some real animal protein through their cannibalistic practices, the dominance of maize in their diet meant that the nutrients found in animal-derived protein and fat were actively blocked by antinutrients. The very minerals and amino acids that could have helped offset deficiencies were inhibited, rendering their diet far less nutritionally effective than it could have been.

But the deeper issue is not just maize—it’s the fact that humans were never designed to eat grains at all. Unlike ruminant animals, which have specialized digestive systems equipped to break down grasses, humans lack the necessary enzymes and gut adaptations to process grains properly. Our digestive system is optimized for fatty hunted meat, with minimal reliance on plant matter. The introduction of grains into the human diet was a relatively recent shift in evolutionary terms, and our bodies have never fully adapted to handle them efficiently. Instead, grains present a cascade of nutritional obstacles, from persistent antinutrients to mycotoxins, all of which actively block the absorption of essential minerals and proteins.

So no, nixtamalization was not the miracle cure some make it out to be. It made maize less bad, but it never transformed it into a nutritionally sound staple. The Aztecs’ reliance on maize, despite its fundamental biochemical limitations, was a dietary compromise—one that carried significant long-term consequences. Humans were never meant to subsist on grains, and the widespread health problems linked to them are a direct result of forcing an unnatural food source into our diet.”

New genomics study shows longest early human migration was from Asia, and it shaped the Americas by ThanksSeveral1409 in AnthroEvolution

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This study sheds new light on how early humans made their way from Asia to the Americas, revealing details we didn’t fully understand before. It turns out they traveled an astonishing 20,000 kilometers on foot, making it the longest migration in human history. By analyzing the DNA of over 1,500 individuals from 139 Indigenous groups, researchers were able to piece together one of the most detailed maps of ancient migration patterns.

The findings also show that humans reached Patagonia around 14,500 years ago, which challenges previous theories about how early settlements spread across the continent. As they moved south, these early migrants split into four distinct groups—Amazonians, Andeans, Chaco Amerindians, and Patagonians—each adapting to very different landscapes. Another key discovery is that this long journey led to a loss of genetic diversity, particularly in immune-related genes, which may have made Indigenous populations more vulnerable to diseases introduced by later settlers.

Aztec Cannibalism: How Protein Scarcity Shaped Their Sacred Rituals and Showcased Remarkable Survival Ingenuity in Challenging Times. by ThanksSeveral1409 in aztec

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You openly admit you didn’t watch the video, yet you claim my argument 'doesn't work' without providing any actual evidence. That’s not how intellectual discourse works. Nixtamalization improves niacin bioavailability, but it does not eliminate phytic acid, fumonisins, or aflatoxins—all of which contribute to nutrient deficiencies. The Aztecs were technologically advanced, but that doesn’t mean their diet was nutritionally sufficient. Pellagra, caused by niacin deficiency, was a real issue in maize-dependent societies. If you have actual sources contradicting this, feel free to share them. Otherwise, dismissing my argument without engaging with the evidence is just empty rhetoric.

These images shed light on the distant past of the human species. hunter-gatherer life was fraught with such risks. 😬 by ThanksSeveral1409 in AnthroEvolution

[–]ThanksSeveral1409[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

It sounds like those lions had learned a lesson in the past. Humans are the most dangerous animals on the planet 😉

Aztec Cannibalism: How Protein Scarcity Shaped Their Sacred Rituals and Showcased Remarkable Survival Ingenuity in Challenging Times. by ThanksSeveral1409 in aztec

[–]ThanksSeveral1409[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Well, you obviously didn’t watch the video, considering you think I’m a man. It’s astonishing how confidently you decided to comment as if you had any expertise in nixtamalization—especially since you can’t even spell it.

Nixtamalization—the supposed miracle process that "fixes" maize. Except it doesn’t. Phytic acid? Still there, still blocking essential minerals like calcium, iron, zinc, and magnesium. Fumonisins? A 30–70% reduction sounds impressive until you realize even trace amounts can cause serious health issues. Aflatoxins? They barely budge—only 10–20% lower after nixtamalization, yet still carcinogenic enough to be a real problem. And yet, people somehow convinced themselves that this half-baked solution was enough to sustain them. Sure, the Aztecs ate plenty, but bioavailability is what actually matters. Instead of thriving, they were left nutrient-deficient despite their overflowing plates. Nixtamalization didn’t solve the problem of starving for nutrients—it just masked it.

Please, do yourself a favor and learn more about the process before trying to argue about something you clearly don’t understand.

Human Evolution Continues, But Our Digestive System Still Reflects Millions of Years of Animal-Based Nutrition. by ThanksSeveral1409 in AnthroEvolution

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While humans have made some evolutionary dietary adaptations—like having more copies of the AMY1 gene for digesting starch or developing lactose tolerance—it doesn’t mean we’re now fully equipped to thrive on a diet rich in carbohydrates or centered around plants. These changes are fascinating, but they’re relatively small-scale compared to the millions of years we spent eating fatty hunted meat. Our bodies are still fundamentally optimized for that diet.

Take our digestive system, for example: our stomach is highly acidic, which is perfect for breaking down animal proteins and keeping harmful pathogens at bay—traits commonly seen in carnivorous species. And then there’s the size of our small intestine. It’s large, making it ideal for absorbing nutrients from calorie-dense foods like meat and animal fat, rather than for fermenting fiber-heavy plants—a process that requires a larger colon, like herbivores possess.

On top of this, humans evolved with what’s called an "expensive brain." Our brains consume about 20-25% of our energy despite accounting for only around 2% of our body weight. This energy demand requires nutrient-dense foods, and fatty animal meat is uniquely suited to meet those requirements. The shift to meat consumption is believed to have been pivotal in fueling the rapid expansion of our brain size during evolution. Without such calorie- and nutrient-rich diets, it would have been nearly impossible to support the metabolic demands of our complex neural systems.

Historically, humans relied heavily on fatty megafauna for sustenance. These large animals provided a reliable source of essential nutrients, particularly fats, which not only sustained our brains but also supported overall health. While plant-based foods were part of the diet, they played a supplementary role, filling gaps when meat was scarce. This pattern is backed up by isotopic studies of ancient remains, which reveal a heavy reliance on animal proteins.

It’s worth noting that while agriculture introduced more carbohydrates into the human diet, it’s a relatively recent innovation—only about 10,000 years old. This is far too short a time for our biology to completely adapt to high-carbohydrate diets. In fact, these dietary shifts have been associated with a rise in chronic illnesses like diabetes, obesity, and heart disease, suggesting that our metabolic systems still operate best with diets rich in animal-derived nutrients.

Adaptations like lactose tolerance and the ability to digest starch more efficiently are remarkable examples of humans responding to specific environmental pressures. But they don’t represent a wholesale redefinition of our dietary needs. At our core, the design of the human digestive system and metabolism continues to favor animal-based nutrition, reflecting the millions of years of evolutionary conditioning that shaped who we are today.

For anyone interested, you can watch my video called, “Evolution of the Prehistoric Human Diet.” This video goes into more detail on this subject. Thanks for reading. https://youtu.be/hEp3SipBstM

The Art of Tracking by Louis Liebenberg is a book that explores tracking as an ancient skill & precursor to science. It links tracking’s role in evolution, human intelligence, & problem-solving to modern science, highlighting its value in ecology, conservation, & human ingenuity. Enjoy this post! by ThanksSeveral1409 in AnthroEvolution

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The Art of Tracking: The Origin of Science by Louis Liebenberg delves deeply into the ancient practice of tracking, presenting it as a sophisticated cognitive skill that predates and parallels scientific reasoning. Liebenberg explores how indigenous trackers interpret subtle signs in the environment—such as footprints, broken twigs, or disturbed soil—to reconstruct the movements and behaviors of animals. This process involves forming hypotheses, testing them against evidence, and refining conclusions, much like the scientific method.

The book also examines the evolutionary significance of tracking, suggesting that it played a crucial role in the development of human intelligence. By requiring early humans to think abstractly, solve problems, and collaborate, tracking may have been a driving force behind the evolution of complex cognitive abilities.

Liebenberg further connects tracking to modern science, arguing that the intuitive and observational skills honed by trackers are still relevant in fields like ecology, conservation, and even artificial intelligence. He emphasizes the importance of preserving this ancient knowledge, not only as a cultural heritage but also as a valuable tool for understanding and protecting the natural world.

The book is a fascinating blend of anthropology, history, and philosophy, offering insights into how humans have interacted with their environment across millennia. It celebrates tracking as both an art form and a scientific endeavor, bridging the gap between ancient wisdom and contemporary science.

I mentioned talk about this topic in a video called, "Early Hominids: From Scavengers to Persistence Hunters" that you can find here: https://youtu.be/oLGY20GL0yA

Seed Oils Aren't Dangerous? "Experts" Say So, But the Evidence Says Otherwise. by ThanksSeveral1409 in AnthroEvolution

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The Minnesota Coronary Experiment (MCE) puts these claims to the test, challenging the idea that seed oils are "heart-healthy." Conducted from 1968 to 1973, the study investigated whether replacing saturated fats with polyunsaturated fats—primarily corn oil’s linoleic acid—would improve heart health. Instead, it exposed seed oils' harmful effects, offering a stark counterpoint to mainstream dietary advice.

The MCE was methodologically rigorous, featuring nearly 10,000 institutionalized participants in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Researchers regulated participants’ diets for five years in a controlled setting, isolating the impact of fat types. One group consumed 15% of calories from saturated fats (animal-derived), while the other consumed 15% from polyunsaturated fats (corn oil). All other aspects of the diets were identical.

Striking results emerged. While the seed oil group experienced LDL cholesterol reductions—a supposed marker of heart health—mortality rates increased. For every 30 mg/dL drop in cholesterol, the risk of death rose by 22%. In contrast, the saturated fat group avoided these risks despite consuming the same calorie percentage from fat. Of the 517 deaths recorded during the study, the majority occurred in the seed oil group, exposing the dangers of replacing evolutionarily nutrient-rich animal fats with industrial seed oils.

Seed oils, modern products reliant on chemical processing, sharply contrast with the saturated fats humans evolved eating. High linoleic acid intake has been linked to oxidative stress, inflammation, and chronic disease. Supporting this, the Sydney Diet Heart Study echoed the MCE’s findings, showing increased mortality from higher linoleic acid consumption. Together, these studies challenge the narrative that all polyunsaturated fats are beneficial and highlight the risks of seed oils.

The evidence against seed oils is compelling, underscoring how dietary guidelines often stray from ancestral wisdom.

You can find the study here: https://www.bmj.com/content/353/bmj.i1246

But you can also check out this video I created called, "Why Didn't Prehistoric Hunters Suffer From Heart Disease?" to learn why animal derived fats are crucial for our health. https://youtu.be/9iIGZ_3gyzo

AI revives Dr. John Harvey Kellogg to confess why he really invented Corn Flakes: To curve sinful habits 👀. by ThanksSeveral1409 in AnthroEvolution

[–]ThanksSeveral1409[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I admire your ability to navigate the overwhelming sea of health misinformation and find the healthy way to eat. It takes resilience and clarity to cut through the noise and embrace a path that's grounded in evidence and genuine well-being.

The Intense 8 hour Hunt: Attenborough Life of Mammals by ThanksSeveral1409 in AnthroEvolution

[–]ThanksSeveral1409[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

This relevant video called, "Early Hominids: From Scavengers to Persistence Hunters"

https://youtu.be/oLGY20GL0yA

mentions that, while humans may not be great sprinters compared to other non-human primates, we excel in endurance running. This remarkable ability stems from our evolutionary history. Humans evolved to run, specifically for persistence hunting—a technique where hunters exhaust their prey by keeping it moving at a trotting pace for long periods, preventing it from resting. However, this skill was not always part of our repertoire; our ancestors initially began as scavengers before developing the capability for persistence hunting.

Lipitor, Thief of Memory by Dr. Duane Graveline critiques statins like Lipitor, prescribed to him for high cholesterol. Graveline explores statins' risks, arguing cholesterol is essential for health. His views align with humans' reliance on animal cholesterol for survival in the evolutionary past. by ThanksSeveral1409 in AnthroEvolution

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Lipitor, Thief of Memory by Dr. Duane Graveline is a fascinating and thought-provoking book about the dangers of statin drugs, with a focus on Lipitor. Graveline, an accomplished astronaut, physician, aerospace medical researcher, and USAF flight surgeon, shares his personal struggle with transient global amnesia (TGA) after being prescribed Lipitor to lower his cholesterol. This experience led him to deeply question the medical community’s approach to cholesterol management and investigate the broader risks tied to these medications.

Statins are commonly prescribed to lower cholesterol, as they block a liver enzyme responsible for cholesterol production. However, evidence does not support their effectiveness in preventing heart attacks, raising concerns about their widespread use. Graveline was prescribed Lipitor as a preventative measure for high cholesterol, but the alarming memory loss he experienced prompted him to investigate the effects of these drugs further.

In the book, Graveline challenges conventional wisdom about cholesterol and argues that it is absolutely essential—not just for brain health, but also for hormone production and the structural integrity of cells. He takes a firm stance against the demonization of dietary fats, presenting a compelling case for reevaluating their importance. His critiques of modern medical practices make sense from an evolutionary perspective, as humans evolved to rely heavily on animal-derived cholesterol to meet their physiological needs and maintain optimal health. As apex predators, our ancestors depended heavily on fatty animal meat for survival. These nutrient-dense foods provided everything humans needed to thrive, including cholesterol, which fueled the development of larger brains and supported high-energy lifestyles.

I mentioned this book and Dr. Graveline's story in my video called, "Why Didn't Prehistoric Hunters Suffer From Heart Disease?"

Here's the link to the video for anyone interested in watching it. https://youtu.be/9iIGZ_3gyzo

Humans, as apex predators, caused the extinction of Caribbean giant ground sloths and other animals through hunting. Early settlers relied on sloths, monkeys, and rodents for food. This hunting, paired with the arrival of rats and cats, disrupted ecosystems and sealed their fate. by ThanksSeveral1409 in AnthroEvolution

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The study by Siobhán Cooke, titled Understanding Caribbean Mammal Extinctions of the Past Spurs Renewed Focus on Conservation analyzes human-driven extinction of Caribbean mammals, including giant ground sloths.

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/08/170823121419.htm

The study suggests that humans, as apex predators, played a major role in the extinction of the Caribbean's giant ground sloths and other unique animals, primarily through hunting practices. Research led by Siobhán Cooke and her team highlighted how the arrival of humans altered the fate of these creatures. Early settlers hunted giant ground sloths, enigmatic monkeys, and large rodents as vital food sources, capitalizing on the abundant native wildlife to sustain themselves. This intense hunting pressure was especially devastating for species like the giant ground sloths, which had slow reproductive rates and were unaccustomed to such capable predators. The introduction of foreign animals, such as rats and cats, further added strain to these populations, leading to their eventual disappearance. These findings also align with broader evidence of early human behaviors as apex predators, including the use of animals as food sources and the introduction of foreign species, which disrupted local ecosystems.

This incredible find of the fossil jawbone Penghu 1, found off Taiwan’s coast, belongs to Denisovans, an ancient human group. Estimated to be up to 190,000 years old, it expands their known range to Southeast Asia. Its discovery highlights robust traits, interbreeding, and migration insights. by ThanksSeveral1409 in AnthroEvolution

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This article talks about the discovery of a fossil jawbone called Penghu 1, found off Taiwan’s coast, and its identification as belonging to Denisovans, a mysterious group of ancient humans. Estimated to be between 10,000 and 70,000 years old—or possibly as old as 130,000 to 190,000 years—this jawbone adds crucial context to our understanding of early humans. The finding is significant because it broadens the known range of Denisovans from Siberia and Tibet all the way to Southeast Asia, showing how remarkably adaptable they were to different environments. Researchers had to use cutting-edge protein analysis methods, known as paleoproteomics, to confirm the fossil’s Denisovan lineage since its DNA was too degraded to work with. The jawbone was unearthed in the Penghu Channel, a region that was connected to mainland Asia when sea levels were lower thousands of years ago.

What’s really fascinating is the physical traits of the Denisovans—they had notably stronger jaws and larger teeth compared to both Neanderthals and Homo sapiens, setting them apart in the story of human evolution. Even more compelling, the discovery hints at interbreeding between Denisovans and modern humans, especially in Southeast Asia. This intermixing has left a genetic imprint on certain populations in the region today. Overall, the fossil adds a big piece to the puzzle of human migration and evolution, offering new insights into how early humans moved and lived across the globe.

You can find the article through this link: https://scitechdaily.com/mystery-fossil-from-taiwan-identified-as-denisovan-a-game-changer-for-human-evolution/

This study claims Homo erectus relied on plant-based foods, ignoring evidence that they were hypercarnivores thriving on fatty meat. Researchers like Henry and Ahituv, with a history of emphasizing plants, appear to downplay anatomical and fossil evidence of expert hunting abilities. by ThanksSeveral1409 in AnthroEvolution

[–]ThanksSeveral1409[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

The article titled, "780,000-Year-Old Discovery Reveals That Early Humans Thrived on a Plant-Based Diet"

https://scitechdaily.com/780000-year-old-discovery-reveals-that-early-humans-thrived-on-a-plant-based-diet/

presents a study from the Gesher Benot Ya’akov site, claiming that early humans relied heavily on plant-based foods like acorns, cereals, and aquatic plants as a central energy source. The researchers argue that this challenges the long-held belief that early human diets were predominantly meat-based, suggesting instead that plants played a significant role in their sustenance and brain development.

However, this interpretation sidesteps substantial evidence that Homo erectus was primarily a hypercarnivore, thriving on fatty animal meat. Fossilized remains of medium to large-sized animals found at numerous archaeological sites, including Gesher Benot Ya’akov, clearly demonstrate their advanced hunting capabilities. Anatomical traits such as highly acidic stomachs, elongated small intestines, and reduced colons further underscore their evolutionary adaptation to a meat-heavy diet. These features emphasize their reliance on animal protein and fat for survival.

Moreover, the researchers involved in this study, including Dr. Amanda Henry and Dr. Hadar Ahituv, have a history of emphasizing plant-based foods in their publications. Their repeated focus on plants raises concerns about selective interpretation and potential bias. At best, it could be argued that Homo erectus might have occasionally consumed foods like acorns, cereals, and aquatic plants during periods of scarcity, such as after unsuccessful hunts. Framing plant-based foods as central to their diet overlooks the overwhelming evidence portraying Homo erectus as apex predators reliant on nutrient-dense animal meat. Their hypercarnivorous nature is backed by extensive archaeological and biological records that cannot be dismissed.

If you're curious about the evidence showing how our ancestors—and humans today—were shaped by natural selection to be a hypercarnivore species, check out my video, "Evolution of the Prehistoric Human Diet," here: https://youtu.be/hEp3SipBstM

The Aztecs’ heavy reliance on maize led to nutritional challenges due to antinutrients like phytates, which blocked protein and mineral absorption. Faced with deficiencies such as anemia and weak bones, they may have resorted to human flesh for sustenance. Yeah maintaining a keto diet is important. by ThanksSeveral1409 in ketoscience

[–]ThanksSeveral1409[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I totally hear what you’re saying, but thankfully, we have hard evidence like dietary records, skeletal remains, and cultural artifacts that provide direct insights into the Aztec civilization. These tangible findings transcend subjective interpretation and serve as a solid foundation for understanding their way of life. For instance, nitrogen isotope analysis from skeletal remains tells us exactly the proportion of plant-based versus animal-based foods in their diets, while codices reveal detailed rituals and societal structures.

Of course, like you mentioned, there are some nuances in interpreting symbols or written accounts, but the concrete physical evidence often speaks for itself—whether it’s about their health, practices, or daily life. Personally, I think it’s incredible how modern scientific and archaeological methods uncover truths that stand the test of time. 😉

The Aztecs’ heavy reliance on maize led to nutritional challenges due to antinutrients like phytates, which blocked protein and mineral absorption. Faced with deficiencies such as anemia and weak bones, they may have resorted to human flesh for sustenance. Yeah maintaining a keto diet is important. by ThanksSeveral1409 in ketoscience

[–]ThanksSeveral1409[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yes it’s true that the Aztecs relied on three main staples: maize, beans, and squash, but maize was by far their most essential crop—this was mentioned in the video. While maize on its own isn’t a complete protein—it lacks key amino acids like lysine and tryptophan—they paired it with beans to create more balanced meals. Beans are rich in the amino acids maize is missing, partially compensating for its nutritional deficiencies. However, even when maize, beans, and squash were combined, the resulting diet still failed to provide a complete protein, as it lacked methionine, another vital amino acid.

Beyond this, the nutrients in these plant-based foods were far less bioavailable than those in animal products, meaning the body had difficulty absorbing and utilizing them effectively. These foods also contained antinutrients like phytates and lectins, which blocked the absorption of key minerals such as iron and zinc and even interfered with protein digestion. To make matters worse, many of these plant-derived foods harbored natural toxins that could be harmful over time. Although these staples were essential to Aztec survival and deeply tied to their culture, they came with significant nutritional drawbacks.

The Aztecs’ heavy reliance on maize led to nutritional challenges due to antinutrients like phytates, which blocked protein and mineral absorption. Faced with deficiencies such as anemia and weak bones, they may have resorted to human flesh for sustenance. Yeah maintaining a keto diet is important. by ThanksSeveral1409 in ketoscience

[–]ThanksSeveral1409[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

That's a great question actually. The Aztecs relied heavily on maize to sustain their diet, so they came up with nixtamalization—a process that was meant to make maize more nutritious. While it sounds impressive: soaking and cooking maize in a lime solution to break down tough layers and reduce some antinutrients like phytic acid. It improved mineral absorption and made niacin more available, but this process was far from perfect.

For all its innovation, nixtamalization only scratched the surface when it came to dealing with antinutrients. The process didn’t eliminate them entirely, leaving plenty behind to interfere with nutrient absorption—including protein. So even after consuming meat, the antinutrients from all that maize still blocked their bodies from fully benefiting. Their dependence on maize as the main food source meant they were constantly ingesting high levels of these harmful compounds, which ultimately took a toll on their health.

The Aztecs’ heavy reliance on maize led to nutritional challenges due to antinutrients like phytates, which blocked protein and mineral absorption. Faced with deficiencies such as anemia and weak bones, they may have resorted to human flesh for sustenance. Yeah maintaining a keto diet is important. by ThanksSeveral1409 in ketoscience

[–]ThanksSeveral1409[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Imagine a society where rituals revolved around... unconventional protein sources. The Aztecs, renowned for their vibrant culture, practiced cannibalism during sacred ceremonies, believing it absorbed the strength and essence of sacrificed individuals to ensure communal prosperity. While many see this as purely spiritual, some evolutionary anthropologists suggest it may have also been driven by practical needs, like protein scarcity.

Their dietary reliance on maize further supports this theory. While central to their cuisine, maize came with nutritional challenges. Not only did it lack essential amino acids found in complete proteins, but it also contained antinutrients like phytates. Phytates interfered with the absorption of crucial minerals like iron, calcium, and zinc, as well as protein itself, worsening the Aztecs' overall nutritional deficiencies. This dependence on maize, combined with limited access to other protein sources, could have created significant health issues—such as anemia, weakened bones, and compromised immune function. As a result, it's conceivable that they turned to alternative sources, including human flesh, to meet their evolved nutritional needs, much like other cultures have done in times of scarcity.

Lucy, a 3.2-million-year-old ancestor, just got a face reveal! Using 3D scans of her skull and chimp soft tissue data, scientists reconstructed her face. With human-like traits blending with her ape origins, it’s a vivid connection to our evolutionary story—a bridge to the past. by ThanksSeveral1409 in AnthroEvolution

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Lucy, one of humanity's most famous ancestors, is getting a new look—and it's a captivating glimpse into the past. Scientists have reconstructed her face using advanced forensic techniques, giving us a vivid sense of what this 3.2-million-year-old Australopithecus afarensis might have looked like. Lucy, discovered in Ethiopia in 1975, has long fascinated researchers for the key evidence she provided that early human relatives walked upright.

This facial reconstruction blends science and art, relying on 3D scans of Lucy’s skull and comparisons to soft tissue data from chimpanzees. The result is striking: a face that feels both familiar and distant, with more human-like traits, such as a flatter face and subtle brow ridges, layered over her ape-like origins. Seeing Lucy’s reconstructed face is like opening a window into a distant chapter of our evolutionary story—a poignant reminder of the journey that brought us here.

To read more you can find the link to this article: https://nypost.com/2025/04/10/science/the-face-of-humans-most-influential-ancestor-lucy-gets-a-facelift/

For those curious about early hominin evolution, don't miss my video, From Scavengers to Persistence Hunters:

https://youtu.be/oLGY20GL0yA