10-14-25 DailyBriefs.info LennyAndMariaPodcasts.com 

welcome to the LennyAndMariaPodcasts.com series.

Today, we dive into an analysis of the escalating trade and technology conflicts between the United States and China, drawing exclusively on the insights presented in the source, "Climbing the escalation ladder," by Hua Bin. The main theme of this piece, published on October 13, 2025, centers on the premise that an all-in decoupling has begun, marked by significant moves from both sides on the trade and tech front.

Discussion of "Climbing the escalation ladder" by Hua Bin

The source material provides a detailed overview of how the US-China trade and tech war intensified to a peak. Following a pattern that seemed "pre-ordained," this major escalation occurred when China implemented a range of hard-hitting counter measures against the US, specifically in response to recent American provocations.

Key Takeaway Point 1: The Scope of US Provocations and the Reaction of the Trump Administration

The US initiated a series of aggressive trade and tech sanctions against China immediately after apparent diplomatic progress. For instance, the US launched sanctions right after the Madrid trade talks, mirroring a prior sneak attack launched against Iran following its fifth round of nuclear talks with Tehran. These actions indicate what the source describes as "bad faith" on the part of the Trump regime.

The specific actions taken by the US Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) were expansive and aggressive. Washington notably tightened its chip ban on China, broadening the embargo to encompass the sale of all semiconductor-related software and equipment to China, aiming to completely choke off China’s capability for chip production. The US also expanded its entity list, which is essentially a blacklist, designed to deny high- end sales to businesses operating outside of China that have 50% or more Chinese ownership.

Beyond the semiconductor sector, the US imposed significant financial and commercial burdens. Washington announced a plan to charge million-dollar port fees specifically for Chinese-operated shipping companies, Chinese-made ships, or even non-Chinese shippers if they had Chinese-made ships within their current fleet or on their order books, in a clear effort to undermine China’s global shipping building industry. Furthermore, Washington imposed a substantial 721% tariff on Chinese clean energy products, such as solar panels. High tariffs were also applied to semi-finished copper products and copper-intensive goods—including wiring and batteries—under Section 232, specifically targeting China's dominance in EV and technology supply chains. Finally, the US ended the de minimis exemption for low-value packages, a move which directly targeted e-commerce platforms originating from China, such as Temu and Shein.

In response to these provocations, the reaction from the Trump administration itself was predictable. Following China's countermeasures, Trump allegedly went into a "blind rage" and retaliated by raising import tariffs on Chinese goods by 100%. He also threatened to cancel a meeting with President Xi, a meeting that had, notably, never been confirmed by Beijing in the first place. The source suggests that Beijing has mastered the tactic of pushing "Trump’s button," effectively regulating his mood and behavior "like a toy" via remote control operated by Beijing's technocrats designing counter-US policies.

Key Takeaway Point 2: China's Swift and Targeted Countermeasures

Faced with the US regime’s bad faith, China swiftly implemented its own suite of counter actions. The central feature of this retaliation was Beijing’s publication of its latest restrictions on rare earth products. These restrictions are designed to deny the sale of any China-sourced rare earth magnets, processing technology, and related equipment to foreign military and semiconductor industries. This enhanced restriction on rare earth products is anticipated to inflict a massive blow to high-tech and military production in the US and its associated nations.

China also employed retaliatory measures in the agricultural and shipping sectors. Beijing revoked the import license for US lumber and soybeans. The source highlights the significance of this move, noting that China previously served as the largest buyer of US soybeans, accounting for over 50% of US export, and had issued an order for no purchases in 2025. In the shipping arena, China announced that it would charge reciprocal port fees for any US-operated or US-owned shipping companies. This move is strategic because China operates seven out of the world’s top ten container ports and experiences the highest volume of port calls globally. While the US builds few large ships or operates many large shipping companies, US financial interests are still targeted, as US pension funds and asset managers hold large shares in major global shipping companies like Maersk, which would now be subject to these new port fees.

In addition to rare earths, China tightened the export control of other strategically critical materials necessary for the ongoing "green transformation," specifically lithium ion and graphite anode. Furthermore, China expanded its own "unreliable list"—which serves as China’s equivalent to the US entity list—to include more US defense contractors, technology firms, and critical mineral companies. Concluding its counteroffensive, Beijing launched an anti-trust investigation against Qualcomm, a major US chip manufacturer. The totality of these retaliatory actions, this latest series of "tit for tats," strongly indicates that China is prepared and ready to move up the escalation ladder in the confrontation over trade and technology with the US.

Key Takeaway Point 3: China's Strategic Flip of the Foreign Direct Product Rule (FDPR)

A crucial strategic maneuver highlighted by the source is China's effective reversal of the US's extraterritorial control mechanisms. When the US imposed its chip technology embargo against China, it utilized the Foreign Direct Product Rule (FDPR). This rule allows the US to block the export of chips to China if non-US made chips happen to utilize any American technology, software, or equipment somewhere along their supply chain. Essentially, the FDPR provides the US with extraterritorial reach by allowing it to claim jurisdiction over any products that US technology has touched, even if those products were manufactured overseas, as is the case with major companies like TSMC and ASML.

With its enhanced rare earth restrictions, China has "flipped the logic back to the US". Beijing has announced a new rule: any non-Chinese company operating anywhere in the world must now obtain Beijing’s explicit approval to export rare earth magnets or semiconductors if those products contain Chinese original rare earth elements, or if they were produced using Chinese rare earth technology, process, or equipment. This represents a powerful restriction, as Beijing is denying all rare earth products, technology, equipment, and technical support to foreign end users that it has not approved.

Key Takeaway Point 4: Rare Earths as the Upstream Choke-Point in the Semiconductor Industry

The source underscores that China's leverage derives from its dominance in the rare earth supply chain, particularly the complex processing and refining stages. Rare earth products are far more complicated than merely mining the raw material. China controls over 90% of the global market share in the processing and refining stage. This control is even more complete, exceeding 99%, in the heavy rare earth segment, which is critical for military applications. Furthermore, China is actively tightening its control over rare earth products destined for use in semiconductor manufacturing.

The relationship between rare earths and advanced semiconductor production is fundamentally critical. Semiconductors simply cannot be produced "at yield, at scale, or at 3 nm, with today’s technology" without rare earths.

The main critical choke-points involving rare earths in the semiconductor supply chain include:

• Chemical–mechanical planarization (CMP): This process, used to polish wafer surfaces, has no viable substitute at the highly advanced sub-5 nm nodes.

• High-k gate dielectrics: These are necessary to effectively cut leakage in 3 nm-class logic chips.

• Lithography & etch-tool motors/robotics: The equipment in these critical manufacturing steps will halt if their magnets overheat.

The immediate impact of China's control has already been observed in the industry. A single delay in issuing a Chinese export-license early in 2025 reportedly forced ASML to quote extensions of lead-time for its EUV tools, measured in "weeks". Additionally, chipmakers have consistently observed that Nd-Pr magnet prices spiked by over 40% within a single quarter following previous Chinese quota restrictions. Washington attempted to strangle China's access to advanced chips without recognizing that China occupies the upstream position in the most advanced semiconductor supply chain due to its rare earth monopoly. The source points out that people situated downstream typically should not attempt to choke those who live upstream, as the US cannot change such physical laws. This demonstrates the concept of a sanction boomerang.

Key Takeaway Point 5: China's Industrial Strategic Bet

China's strategic actions are based on several calculated bets regarding the future technological competition.

First, China is making the strategic bet that it will successfully close its advanced chip gap much faster than the US and its allied nations can close the existing rare earth and reindustrialization gaps.

Second, Beijing is betting that the financial cost for the US to successfully "reinvent the rare earth wheel"—meaning establishing a fully independent, domestic, high-scale rare earth processing industry—will ultimately be higher than the cost incurred by China to build a self-reliant semiconductor supply chain.

Lastly, Beijing is confident in its internal capabilities, betting that it can execute its plans more effectively and possesses superior infrastructure, talent, and a capable bureaucracy to deliver on its ambitious industrial policy more successfully than its primary competitor, the US. Through these sweeping counter-sanctions, China ensures that the US is unable to negotiate from a desired "position of strength". The source concludes that while Trump may have started the trade and tech war, President Xi is demonstrating a determination to finish it.

thank you for listening to another session of the LennyAndMariaPodcasts.com series produced and archived at the website LennyAndMariaPodcasts.com

This text, an excerpt from the article "Climbing the Escalation Ladder" by Hua Bin on The Unz Review, details the rapidly intensifying trade and technology conflict between the US and China. The author describes a series of tit-for-tat actions, where US sanctions, such as expanding chip embargoes and raising tariffs, are met with swift Chinese counter-measures like restricting the export of rare earth products. The central argument highlights China's strategic advantage in controlling the global supply chain for rare earth elements, which are essential for US high-tech and military production, positioning China upstream in critical manufacturing processes and suggesting that US attempts to cripple China's semiconductor industry may ultimately boomerang. Ultimately, the author concludes that China is resolved to navigate this escalating confrontation to secure its long-term technological independence and global standing. 

Discuss US-China conflict.

The US-China conflict, particularly concerning trade and technology, has recently escalated to a peak where "all-in decoupling has started"1. This confrontation is characterized by a series of tit-for-tat sanctions and counter-measures, indicating that China is ready to move up the escalation ladder2.

US Escalation and Sanctions

The conflict is driven by US actions often described as "provocations" and "bad faith"34. Despite professed optimism in trade talks, the US quickly launched new sanctions5. Key US moves include:

• Tariffs and Trade Restrictions: President Trump raised import tariffs on Chinese goods by 100%3. Washington also imposed a 721% tariff on Chinese clean energy products like solar panels, and a 50% tariff on copper-intensive goods and semi-finished copper products, specifically targeting China’s dominance in EV/tech supply chains6. The US ended the de minimis exemption for low-value packages, affecting e-commerce platforms like Temu and Shein6.

• Technology and Chip Embargoes: The US Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) tightened its chip ban, expanding the embargo to cover all semiconductor-related software and equipment sales to China, with the goal of completely choking off China’s chip production ability6.

• Extraterritorial Reach: The US utilized the Foreign Direct Product Rule (FDPR), which asserts US jurisdiction over non-US made chips if they use any American technology, software, or equipment in the supply chain27. This rule grants the US extraterritorial reach, affecting companies like TSMC and ASML7.

• Shipping and Entity Lists: Washington expanded its "entity list" (or black list) to deny high-end sales to foreign businesses that are 50% or more Chinese-owned6. It also planned to charge million-dollar port fees for Chinese-made ships or vessels operated by Chinese companies6.

The US approach, particularly under the Trump administration, is seen by some as an attempt to bluff with a very weak hand8. The behavior of President Trump, who went into a "blind rage" and launched "bombastic twits" in response to Chinese retaliation, suggests to some that Beijing has "mastered the art of pushing Trump’s button"35.

China's Counter-Measures and Strategic Leverage

Faced with these sanctions, China retaliated swiftly with a suite of counter actions4:

• Rare Earth Restrictions (Flipping the Logic): China published severe restrictions on rare earth products, denying sales of China-sourced rare earth magnets, processing technology, and equipment to foreign military and semiconductor industries34.

    ◦ This move flips the logic of the US FDPR back onto Washington7. Beijing now requires approval for non-Chinese companies anywhere to export rare earth magnets or semiconductors if they contain Chinese original rare earth or are produced using Chinese rare earth technology or equipment7.

    ◦ This enhancement of rare earth restrictions is expected to deliver a massive blow to high-tech and military production in the US and its "vassals"2.

• Resource and Financial Targets: China revoked import licenses for US lumber and soybeans, noting that China was historically the largest buyer of US soybeans, accounting for over 50% of its export, but ordered no purchases in 20254. Beijing also tightened the export of lithium ion and graphite anode, materials critical for the green transformation4.

• Reciprocal Shipping Fees: China announced it would charge reciprocal port fees for any US-operated or US-owned shipping companies, directly targeting US financial interests. This is significant because China operates seven out of the world’s top ten container ports4.

• Unreliable Entity List: China expanded its "unreliable list" (its answer to the US entity list) to include more US defense contractors, tech firms, and critical mineral companies. An anti-trust investigation was also launched against US chip manufacturer Qualcomm4.

The Critical Role of Rare Earths

China's leverage is heavily concentrated in the rare earth supply chain9.

• Processing Monopoly: The most complicated phase of rare earth production is in processing and refining, where China controls over 90% of the global market share10. In the segment critical for military applications—heavy rare earth—China's control is complete, exceeding 99%10.

• Semiconductor Dependence: Semiconductor manufacturing heavily depends on rare-earth elements for critical steps like chemical–mechanical planarization (CMP), high-k gate dielectrics, and motors for lithography and etch tools11. Semiconductors cannot be built at scale, yield, or at 3 nm without rare earths using current technology9.

• Upstream Control: The source argues that Washington tried to stranglehold China's access to advanced chips without recognizing that China sits "upstream of the most advanced semiconductor supply chain with its rare earth monopoly"9. This has been called a "sanction boomerang"9.

China's Strategic Bets and Future Outlook

President Xi is determined to finish the trade and tech war that Trump started12. China is basing its long-term strategy on several key bets:

1. Closing the Chip Gap: China is betting it can close its advanced chip gap faster than the US and its allies can close the rare earth and reindustrialization gaps9.

2. Cost Comparison: Beijing bets the cost for the US to recreate its rare earth supply chain will be higher than the cost for China to build a self-reliant semiconductor supply chain12.

3. Execution and Infrastructure: Beijing is betting on its ability to execute better, leveraging superior infrastructure, talent, and capable bureaucracy to deliver industrial policy more effectively than its competitor12.

Some observers note that China may soon be at the leading edge of semiconductor technology without relying on the West, as the country has been forced to make the entire technology stack sanction-proof by localizing nearly everything, a successful effort driven by US sanctions1314. In contrast, predictions regarding the US reestablishing sufficient rare earth supplies vary significantly, with estimates ranging from one to three years for commercial and defense uses15, to five or ten years, depending on the US ability to acquire or steal refining technology16.

keep_pinSave to note

copy_all

thumb_up

thumb_down

Discuss Trade and tech.

The trade and technology conflict between the US and China has escalated to a peak, described in the sources as an "all-in decoupling"12. This confrontation involves frequent tit-for-tat actions, strongly indicating that China is prepared to move up the escalation ladder on these issues3. The sources suggest that China's technocrats have mastered the art of pushing the US President's "button," regulating his mood and behavior through policy design4.

US Trade and Technology Actions

Despite apparent optimism for de-escalation during trade talks in Madrid, the US swiftly launched new trade and tech sanctions against China4. These actions included a significant tightening of technological controls and the imposition of various tariffs:

Technology Controls (Semiconductors):

• The US Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) tightened its chip ban on China, expanding the embargo to cover all semiconductor-related software and equipment sales5. The goal of this expansion is to "completely choke off China’s ability for chip production"5.

• Washington expanded its entity list (black list), which denies high-end sales to businesses outside of China that have 50% or more Chinese ownership5.

• The US utilized the Foreign Direct Product Rule (FDPR), allowing it to claim jurisdiction over products made overseas (like those from TSMC and ASML) if they incorporate any American technology, software, or equipment in the supply chain, giving the US extraterritorial reach36.

Trade Tariffs and Restrictions:

• Tariffs on Chinese goods were raised by 100%2.

• A massive 721% tariff was put on Chinese clean energy products, such as solar panels5.

• A 50% tariff was imposed on semi-finished copper products and copper-intensive goods (like wiring and batteries) under Section 232, specifically targeting China’s dominance in EV/tech supply chains5.

• The de minimis exemption for low-value packages was ended, impacting Chinese e-commerce platforms like Temu and Shein5.

• Washington announced a plan to charge million-dollar port fees for Chinese-operated shipping companies, Chinese-made ships, or non-Chinese shippers using Chinese-made ships, aiming to undermine China’s shipping building industry5.

China's Countermeasures

China retaliated swiftly against the US actions7, particularly focusing on using its critical material monopolies to counter US technology restrictions23.

Rare Earth and Critical Mineral Restrictions (Tech):

• Beijing published enhanced restrictions on rare earth products2. These restrictions deny sales of China-sourced rare earth magnets, processing technology, and equipment to foreign military and semiconductor industries7. This move is anticipated to inflict a massive blow to high-tech and military production in the US and its allies3.

• China's new rare earth rules utilize a logic that mirrors the US FDPR, requiring non-Chinese companies operating anywhere to obtain Beijing’s approval to export rare earth magnets or semiconductors if those products contain Chinese original rare earth, or if they are produced using Chinese rare earth technology, process, or equipment6.

• China also tightened the export of lithium ion and graphite anode, materials described as critical for the "green transformation"78.

• Beijing expanded its unreliable list (China’s counterpart to the entity list) to cover more US defense contractors, tech firms, and critical mineral companies7.

• An anti-trust investigation was launched against Qualcomm, a large US chip manufacturer7.

Trade Counter-Tariffs and Restrictions:

• China revoked import licenses for US lumber and soybeans7. Historically, China was the largest buyer of US soybeans, accounting for over 50% of its export, but ordered no purchase in 20257.

• Beijing announced it would charge reciprocal port fees for any US-operated or US-owned shipping companies7. This move directly targets US financial interests, as US pension funds and asset managers own large shares in major global shipping companies like Maersk7. China controls 7 out of the world’s top ten container ports7.

The Rare Earth and Semiconductor Nexus

The conflict highlights the strategic dependence of advanced technology on rare earth elements9. China's counter-sanctions focus on rare earth materials because they are essential for semiconductor manufacturing10.

• China holds a monopoly on rare earth processing and refining, controlling over 90% of the global market share11. In the military-critical heavy rare earth segment, China’s control is complete, exceeding 99%11.

• The sources emphasize that semiconductors cannot be built without rare earths at yield, at scale, or at the 3 nm node, using today's technology9.

• Rare earth elements are concentrated in critical choke-points in the semiconductor supply chain, including chemical–mechanical planarization (CMP) used to polish wafer surfaces (where there is no viable substitute at <5 nm nodes), high-k gate dielectrics, and lithography & etch-tool motors/robotics10.

• An example of the impact is that a Chinese export-license delay in early 2025 forced ASML to extend lead-times on EUV tools by "weeks"10.

Strategic Bets on Technological Self-Reliance

The US tried to "stranglehold China’s access to advanced chips," without realizing China controls the upstream rare earth monopoly necessary for advanced semiconductor supply chains9.

China is pursuing a self-reliant strategy based on several key bets:

1. China believes it will close its advanced chip gap faster than the US and its allies can close the rare earth and reindustrialization gaps9.

2. Beijing is betting that the cost for the US to "reinvent the rare earth wheel" will be higher than the cost for China to build a self-reliant semiconductor supply chain12.

3. China believes it can execute better, possessing superior infrastructure, talent, and a capable bureaucracy to deliver on its industrial policy more effectively than its competitor12.

Some commentary supports China's confidence, noting that the tightening US sanctions may be ineffective or too late1314. Indications suggest China is nearing the leading edge of semiconductor technology without dependence on the West15. For example, Huawei's announced roadmap for its Ascend series and Zhaoxin's high-core CPUs suggest China's EUV lithography machines may be nearly ready1315. This effort to become sanction-proof by localizing the entire technology stack has been successful, potentially allowing China to dominate the global market for mature chips soon1416.

However, some dissenting views argue that while the US can reestablish rare earth supplies quickly (estimated at one to three years for commercial and defense uses), China will face a harder time with its semiconductor supply chain, which might take a decade to recreate and another decade to refine to world-class status due to the complexity of process machinery and software1718. Conversely, others assert that US rare earth refining is significantly underestimated and could take five to ten years1920.

keep_pinSave to note

copy_all

thumb_up

thumb_down

Discuss Rare earth restrictions.

The discussion of rare earth restrictions revolves around the countermeasures implemented by China in the escalating trade and technology conflict with the US1. These restrictions are considered hard-hitting counter measures launched by China in retaliation for US provocations, such as severe chip bans and sanctions1....

Details and Scope of Rare Earth Restrictions

China's latest actions include publishing restrictions on rare earth products specifically designed to deny sales of China-sourced rare earth magnets, processing technology, and equipment to foreign military and semiconductor industries3. These enhanced restrictions are expected to deliver a massive blow to high tech and military production in the US and its allied nations4.

The scope of the restrictions is comprehensive:

• Targeted Exports: Beijing is denying the export of all rare earth products, technology, equipment, and technical support to foreign end users it does not approve5.

• End Users: The restrictions specifically target the military and semiconductor industry3.

• Related Materials: In addition to rare earths, China also tightened up the export of lithium ion and graphite anode, which are critical for "green transformation" initiatives36.

The Mechanism: Flipping the Logic

China’s new policy utilizes a mechanism that mirrors the US's Foreign Direct Product Rule (FDPR), which the US uses to claim jurisdiction over products made overseas if they incorporate US technology47. China is now imposing a similar jurisdictional reach with its rare earth monopoly7:

• Beijing announced that any non-Chinese companies operating anywhere must obtain Beijing’s approval to export rare earth magnets or semiconductors7.

• This requirement applies if those products contain Chinese original rare earth or if they are produced using Chinese rare earth technology, process, or equipment7.

The Strategic Importance of China's Monopoly

The restrictions are particularly potent because China holds a monopoly on the most complex and critical segments of the rare earth supply chain8.

• Processing and Refining: Rare earth products are complicated, with the most difficult stage being processing and refining, where China controls over 90% of the global market share5.

• Heavy Rare Earth Segment: In the military-critical heavy rare earth segment, China’s control is described as complete, exceeding 99%5.

• Semiconductor Dependency: Semiconductors, which the US attempted to block China from accessing, cannot be built at yield, at scale, or at 3 nm without rare earths, given current technology8. China is tightening control of rare earth products specifically for use in semiconductor manufacturing5.

Key choke-points in the semiconductor supply chain that rely on rare-earth elements include9:

1. Chemical–mechanical planarization (CMP): Essential for polishing wafer surfaces, with no viable substitute at the <5 nm nodes9.

2. High-k gate dielectrics: Used to cut leakage in 3 nm-class logic chips9.

3. Lithography & etch-tool motors/robotics: Equipment will halt if the rare earth magnets in these components overheat9.

The immediate impact of China's control was illustrated in early 2025 when a single Chinese export-license delay forced ASML to quote "weeks-long" lead-time extensions on EUV tools9. Furthermore, prior Chinese quotas have caused Nd-Pr magnet prices for chipmakers to spike by over 40% within a quarter9.

The source material notes that China sits "upstream" in the advanced semiconductor supply chain due to its rare earth monopoly, highlighting the irony (or "sanction boomerang") of the US trying to choke China, which resides upstream8. China is betting that the cost for the US and its allies to "reinvent the rare earth wheel" will exceed the cost for China to build a self-reliant semiconductor supply chain10.

Differing Views on Western Recourse

Commenters in the source provide contrasting perspectives on the West's ability to counter these rare earth restrictions:

• Optimistic View: Some suggest that rare earths are "not particularly rare," and processing is a "well understood, solved problem"11. It was estimated that rare earth supplies for the West could be reestablished in approximately one year, with sufficient supplies firmed up within three years for all defense and commercial uses11. It is also noted that much of the rare earth is situated in Xinjiang, a region already boycotted by the USA12.

• Pessimistic View: Others argue that the difficulty of refining the ores (which are chemically similar and hard to separate) is severely underestimated13. Estimates for the US to learn to refine the ores range from five years (if technology is stolen from places like Australia) to ten years otherwise13. Another perspective holds that the US will never achieve at scale what China is currently doing, as China is continuously increasing capacity and improving processes at a pace that surpasses the US's archaic facilities14.

• Military Focus: The restrictions are explicitly intended to prevent rare earths from being used to build weapons against China15, although the Chinese government has specified that the export restrictions target only the military sector, not civilian sectors16.

keep_pinSave to note

copy_all

thumb_up

thumb_down

Discuss Semiconductor supply.

The discussion regarding semiconductor supply chains is central to the escalating trade and technology conflict between the US and China, with each side attempting to leverage critical choke points to gain dominance1.

US Efforts to Isolate China's Semiconductor Production

The US government has implemented strict measures aimed at severely limiting China's ability to produce advanced semiconductors2.

1. Chip and Equipment Embargoes: The US Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) tightened its chip ban on China, expanding the embargo to cover all semiconductor-related software and equipment sales to the country2. This action is intended to "completely choke off China’s ability for chip production"2.

2. Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (FDPR): Washington utilizes the Foreign Direct Product Rule (FDPR) to assert jurisdiction over non-US made chips if they incorporate any American technology, software, or equipment in their supply chain13. This rule grants the US extraterritorial reach and affects major non-US based semiconductor suppliers like TSMC and ASML3.

3. Blacklisting Foreign Entities: The US has also expanded its "entity list" (or black list) to deny high-end sales to businesses outside of China that have 50% or more Chinese ownership2.

China's Rare Earth Leverage and Counter-Chokehold

China holds significant upstream control over the semiconductor supply chain through its near-monopoly on rare earth elements4.

• Reliance on Rare Earths: Semiconductor manufacturing is heavily dependent on rare-earth elements5. Without rare earths, current technology prevents semiconductors from being built "at yield, at scale, or at 3 nm"4.

• Choke Points in Production: Rare earth elements are critical at several stages in the supply chain, including5:

    ◦ Chemical–mechanical planarization (CMP) used to polish wafer surfaces, where no viable substitute exists at nodes smaller than 5 nm5.

    ◦ High-k gate dielectrics necessary to cut leakage in 3 nm-class logic chips5.

    ◦ Components for lithography and etch-tool motors/robotics (where equipment can halt if magnets overheat)5.

• Refining Monopoly: While rare earths are not inherently rare in terms of mining, the complex part is the processing and refining stage67. China controls over 90% of the global market share in rare earth processing and refining6. In the military-critical heavy rare earth segment, China’s control exceeds 99%6.

• Flipping the FDPR Logic: China has retaliated against US sanctions by imposing severe restrictions on rare earth products, denying sales of China-sourced rare earth magnets, processing technology, and equipment to foreign military and semiconductor industries89. Beijing requires non-Chinese companies operating globally to obtain approval before exporting rare earth magnets or semiconductors if those products contain Chinese original rare earth or were produced using Chinese technology3. This action flips the logic of the US FDPR back onto Washington3.

The source argues that Washington attempted to "stranglehold China’s access to advanced chips, without realizing China sits at the upstream of the most advanced semiconductor supply chain with its rare earth monopoly"4.

China's Push for Self-Reliance

In response to US sanctions, China is focused on achieving a self-reliant semiconductor supply chain10.

• Strategic Bet: China is betting that it can close its advanced chip gap faster than the US and its allies can close the rare earth and reindustrialization gaps410.

• Ecosystem Development: The US sanctions have forced China's semiconductor ecosystem to become "wide and deep," developing the entire technology stack locally to ensure it is sanction-proof11.

• Domestic Progress: There is reported evidence suggesting China is rapidly progressing towards independence:

    ◦ The US BIS chip ban is viewed by some as "far too late"12.

    ◦ Huawei has announced a roadmap for its Ascend GPU series (950 to 970). The Ascend 930, built at 7 nanometers, is already described as competitive with NVIDIA’s H2012. The announced roadmap for later chips, which go beyond 7 nm, implies that China’s EUV lithography machines are nearly ready12.

    ◦ Zhaoxin announced the Zhaoxin 50000, a chip with up to 96 cores compatible with x86-64, putting it competitively close to AMD’s 5 nm EPYC 9004 (Genoa) chip13. This is seen as further evidence that China is nearing readiness with EUV lithography13.

• Market Impact: Due to this successful development effort, China is beginning to take over the global market for mature chips14. China’s mature chips are expected to make up 28% of world production, causing concern for Western companies14. Furthermore, Beijing's confidence in locally-made AI chips is demonstrated by the decision to ban the import of NVIDIA's chips14.

• Timeframes: If rebuilding a complete fab ecosystem is consistently pursued as a national priority, one estimation suggests it could be accomplished in about a decade, followed by another decade of refinement to achieve world-class status15. Conversely, others argue that since China started this development work five to seven years ago following Trump's sanctions, the most difficult work (like EUV lithography) is "nearly done"1116.

keep_pinSave to note

copy_all

thumb_up

thumb_down

Discuss Escalation ladder.

The term "Escalation Ladder" refers to the intensifying cycle of confrontation between the US and China, particularly concerning trade and technology issues1. The title of the sources, "Climbing the Escalation Ladder," confirms that this cycle has reached a point where "all-in decoupling has started"2....

The sources describe this conflict as escalating to a peak after the US launched a series of trade and tech sanctions following professed optimism in trade talks56. China's subsequent launch of hard-hitting counter-measures in retaliation for US "provocations" strongly indicates that Beijing is ready to move up the escalation ladder15.

China's Key Escalation Tactics

China's principal move up the escalation ladder is centered on its monopoly over the global rare earth supply chain, turning a US "sanction boomerang" back on Washington7.

1. Enhanced Rare Earth Restrictions: Beijing published severe restrictions on rare earth products, denying sales of China-sourced rare earth magnets, processing technology, and equipment to foreign military and semiconductor industries58. This is expected to deliver a massive blow to high tech and military production in the US and its "vassals"1.

2. Flipping the Foreign Direct Product Rule (FDPR): The US used the FDPR to claim extraterritorial jurisdiction over non-US made chips if they utilized any American technology in their supply chain9. China's enhanced rare earth restrictions flip this logic: Beijing now requires non-Chinese companies operating anywhere to obtain approval to export rare earth magnets or semiconductors if those products contain Chinese original rare earth or if they were produced using Chinese rare earth technology, process, or equipment9.

3. Targeting Critical Resources: China also tightened the export of lithium ion and graphite anode, materials deemed critical for the "green transformation"8.

4. Reciprocal Financial Measures: China announced it would charge reciprocal port fees for any US-operated or US-owned shipping companies8. This move directly targets US financial interests, leveraging the fact that China operates seven of the world’s top ten container ports8.

The Context of Escalation

The escalation began with US actions following the Madrid trade talks, including US sanctions and tariffs6. US escalations included:

• Raising import tariffs on Chinese goods by 100%5.

• Imposing a massive 721% tariff on Chinese clean energy products like solar panels, and a 50% tariff on copper-intensive goods10.

• Tightening the chip ban to cover all semiconductor-related software and equipment sales to "completely choke off China’s ability for chip production"10.

In response, China's actions constitute a definitive shift upward on the ladder1. China's strategy relies on its unique control over crucial raw materials, positioning itself "upstream of the most advanced semiconductor supply chain with its rare earth monopoly"7.

Ultimately, President Xi is determined to finish the trade and tech war that the Trump administration started, and China's escalation strategy is a bet on its ability to execute better and achieve technological self-reliance faster than the US can reestablish its rare earth supplies11. Through these sweeping sanctions and counter-measures, China seeks to deny the US any ability to negotiate from a position of strength11.

keep_pinSave to note

copy_all

thumb_up

thumb_down

1 source

send

chevron_right

Which country controls rare earth processing?

What are China's recent counter measures?

welcome to the LennyAndMariaPodcasts.com series

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Today, we delve into a controversial but foundational perspective on human biology, body composition, and what truly constitutes a natural and normal physiological state, drawing upon the extensive work and insights provided by Joachim Bartoll.

Discussion 1: Establishing the Fundamental Truths of Human Physiology

We begin by examining the core biological facts necessary for understanding human health and physique. A crucial realization, which the sources suggest is often obscured by centuries of misinformation and propaganda, is the simple truth that humans are an animal species, just like any other animal living in nature1.... This basic awareness is intended to lay the foundation for all understanding within human biology and physiology13.

Since we are a specific species, we are constructed and adapted for a very species-specific and species-appropriate diet24. The established fields of anthropology, biology, physiology, and biochemistry uniformly indicate that humans are obligate hyper carnivores24. This classification means we are meat-eaters and scavengers, adapted to consume cadavers from other kills if required2. Solid evidence for this classification lies in our natural stomach acid, which possesses a pH of 1.5, comparable to that of vultures2.

Furthermore, the sources argue that this obligate hyper carnivore status should be considered common sense, especially when evaluating what was available in nature before humans learned to cultivate plants5. Before cultivation, the few truly natural fruits were small, bitter, and toxic, making survival on them highly unlikely5. Not one modern cultivated fruit or vegetable exists naturally5. The sources assert that cooking diminishes our food, as it denaturates and destroys nutrients, leaving us with less nutrient density, implying that we do better on raw animal-based foods2.

The importance of recognizing our species-specific requirements is paramount for troubleshooting any health issues or determining what is physiologically "normal"3. We must ask what is natural and how the body would function without modern interventions3. All humans belong to the same species and possess the same requirements4. The only variations in human health status are attributed to factors such as pre-requisite physiological status (nourishment versus toxicity experienced during gestation and post-birth), the accumulated toxic load and tissue damage resulting from poor lifestyle choices, current nutritional status, stress levels, and prior traumas4. Because we are obligate hyper carnivores, bioavailable and bioactive nutrients can only be obtained from animal-based foods4. Conversely, the consumption of any plant-based food is stated to result in toxicity and damage4. Any "problem," "ailment," or "disease" can potentially be massively improved or fixed by eliminating offending toxins and properly nourishing the body so it can heal as intended4.

Discussion 2: Body Composition, Fat Accumulation, and the Carnivore Set-Point

Moving to the discussion of body fat and image, we start with the understanding that a natural human physique is an adaptation to their environment and the nutrients supplied by their natural diet6. If we look to other carnivore species in nature, such as lions, tigers, or wolves, we never observe them being overweight or blubbery7. A naturally lean animal only becomes fat in captivity when provided with an inappropriate diet7. The sources establish a parallel, noting that humans gain fat when deceived into consuming inappropriate foods, specifically processed and plant-based "slave foods"7.

A key takeaway is that every human who transitions back to the natural species-appropriate diet naturally loses body fat until they achieve their inherent, fairly lean set-point7. This occurs because such a diet is free of toxic load and provides the nutrients required for the body to detoxify, heal, and restore hormones7. Furthermore, it lacks carbohydrates, seed/vegetable oils, or toxins that actively promote fat storage7.

The sources strongly challenge the common modern belief that humans easily store fat as a "protective" mechanism against starvation8. This generalized statement is characterized as a clever lie designed to mask the damaging effects of the modern processed, plant-based foods that keep people weak, sickly, and dependent8. Fat certainly serves as stored energy8. Even an individual with a very low body fat level, such as 5%, still carries several pounds of fat (subcutaneous, intra-muscular, and around organs), equating to 10 lbs or more8. This amount is sufficient to sustain complete fasting for two weeks without sacrificing muscle mass8. Factoring in muscle mass, survival during long-term starvation could stretch to one or two months8. Since, in nature, humans would rarely go without food for more than a few days, the argument that we need massive fat stores for survival is refuted8. Even "athletic people" at about 10% body fat could easily fast for three to six months without risk9.

The sources stress that being "chubby," defined by blurred abdominal muscles and smoothed muscle definition, is not a natural state10. The accumulation of fat to the point of being overweight or obese primarily occurs because fat not only stores energy but also stores toxins that the body cannot keep up with expelling10. This extreme toxicity comes from inappropriate plant-based and processed foods10. The consumption of anything our physiology is not built for leads to toxin accumulation, which damages tissues and organs10. The body attempts to limit this damage by storing toxins in fat cells, and if overwhelmed, it may even create new fat cells for storage10. This mechanism is identified as a direct cause of the current extreme levels of obesity10. In cases where the toxins are too poisonous, the body may attempt to shield them off into tumors, leading to conditions like cancer10.

A crucial physiological concept highlighted is that ketosis is our natural metabolic state9. We are designed to run efficiently on fat, whether derived from animals or stored on our own bodies9. We can generate all the necessary glucose for intense physical efforts through gluconeogenesis9. For a person to feel well and perform optimally during fasting or famine, they must be "fat adapted" and accustomed to ketosis9. Conversely, individuals used to toxic carbohydrates or suffering from nutrient deficiencies will feel lethargic and suffer severely during fasting periods9.

Discussion 3: The Experiment in Leanness and Redefining "Normal"

With the foundational physiological principles established, the sources pivot to what a natural human should look like6. The author undertook an experiment to demonstrate the ease of shedding body fat and remaining "extremely lean" according to modern societal standards11. The natural state of humanity is asserted to be lean and strong11.

The experiment began after a four-month period where the author attempted to gain weight by eating as much as possible12. The sources highlight that it is impossible to gain body fat purely by eating fatty meat, organ meats, fish, and eggs12. Weight gain was only achieved by adding raw dairy, yogurt, butter, and heavy cream, which contain natural sugars12.

Starting the experiment at nearly 80 kg (176 lbs) and just below 10% body fat, the author embarked on an 11-week regimen1213. This regimen involved eating animal-based foods to full satiety across three meals a day, incorporating one or two "low days" weekly, and adding a few 36-hour fasts13. Over the course of 77 days, with only about 20 days categorized as "dieting," the author dropped from 8.5% to 5.2% body fat1314. The total fat loss was estimated to be 6 kg (13 lbs) or more, achieved without hunger, tiredness, or cravings13. The most impressive outcome noted was the ease of maintaining this low body fat level while thriving and progressing, due to being fully nourished by species-appropriate, fully bioavailable foods13. The process involved nourishing the body while only encouraging fat burning a couple of times a week, working with physiology rather than against it13.

The sources emphasize that the majority of people today are overweight, leading to an altered perception of reality regarding body image, a state driven by agendas that have successfully confused reality for close to 100 years15. The author asserts that if one finds the natural presentation of a muscular and lean human body to be "gross," this is evidence of having been successfully brainwashed and having lost all connection with nature, biology, and human physiology1516. This altered perception needs correction by reconnecting with reality and what it truly means to be human, starting with the species-appropriate diet16.

To understand the natural look, one must refer to older photographs of indigenous hunter tribes who consumed raw meat, organ meats, blood, and raw milk17. These individuals, despite only engaging in a few hours of physical work daily (like building traps or hunting), displayed athletic, muscular, and very lean physiques17. They often looked better and leaner than modern short-distance runners17. This level of low body fat and muscularity is stated to be natural for our species when consuming the appropriate diet and maintaining physical activity17.

A very low body fat level is concluded to be neither unnatural nor dangerous, nor does it pose a health risk, provided the individual remains fully nourished with plenty of species-appropriate foods18. The true risks are toxicity, unnatural stress, and malnutrition18. Low body fat is only a drawback if one faces famine, as stored energy is limited18. Furthermore, the author notes that low body fat does not negatively impact hormones, a point proven by this experiment18. The appeal of muscle definition and athletic rawness, as seen in activities like combat sports and bodybuilding, is viewed as a natural impulse that seeks the raw, natural aesthetic missing in modern society19.

Discussion 4: Context and Resources

The author, Joachim Bartoll, provides extensive credentials supporting his perspective2021. The article "Body Fat, Body Image, Human Physiology, And What Actually Is Normal And Natural" was written on October 14, 202520.

Joachim Bartoll is recognized as the founder of the first Health & Fitness internet community, Ironmag, dating back to 199621. He served as Editor-in-Chief for two magazines and founded Sweden’s largest discussion board, Kolozzeum21. Over 31 years, he has written over 600 officially published articles, more than 1800 self-published articles, and 8 books21. He is an Elite-level trainer/coach, nutritionist, and body transformation specialist with over 35 years of experience, having worked with more than 1200 clients21.

Crucially, his current perspective is informed by a significant personal journey21. After 17 years of studies in Western ‘Modern’ Medicine and Pharmacology, he spent over 6 years studying Human Physiology, Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, The Terrain Theory, and 3.5 years studying German New Medicine21. These studies facilitated his healing from cancer and failing organs in 2018, as well as curing his lifelong asthma and allergies, marking his transition to animal-based nutrition in 201821. He offers coaching, consultation, and animal-based (carnivore) educational coaching services for those seeking help with health problems or transitioning to the natural way of eating19.... The author’s work is stated to be his thoughts, views, and speculations based on his experiences and knowledge24.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

thank you for listening to another session of the LennyAndMariaPodcasts.com series produced and archived at the website LennyAndMariaPodcasts.com

keep_pinSave to note

copy_all

thumb_up

thumb_down

This extensive article by Joachim Bartoll, titled "Body Fat, Body Image, Human Physiology, And What Actually Is Normal And Natural," fundamentally argues that humans are obligate hyper carnivores, meaning our natural, species-appropriate diet consists solely of animal-based foods. The author contends that the modern understanding of body composition and obesity is flawed due to widespread "misinformation and propaganda" from the food and pharmaceutical industries. Bartoll advocates that returning to an animal-based diet naturally leads to a lean and muscular physique, similar to wild carnivores and indigenous hunter-gatherers, suggesting that excess body fat is primarily a result of the body storing toxins from inappropriate plant-based and processed foods. He utilizes a personal experiment showing significant and easy fat loss on a carnivore diet to demonstrate that low body fat is the natural human state and is not detrimental to health, provided the body remains fully nourished.

Natural Human Diet

Obligate Hyper Carnivores

Body Fat Loss

Discuss Natural Human Diet.

The discussion of the Natural Human Diet, often referred to as the species-appropriate or species-specific diet, fundamentally begins with the understanding that humans are an animal species12. This awareness is considered the basic foundation for everything within human biology and physiology34.

Classification of the Natural Human Diet

The established fields of anthropology, biology, physiology, and biochemistry suggest that humans are obligate hyper carnivores12. This classification means humans are essentially meat-eaters and scavengers, adapted to consume cadavers from other kills if necessary1.

Key aspects of the natural human diet and physiology include:

1. Composition: The species-appropriate natural diet is animal-based2.... Historically, indigenous hunter tribes lived on raw meat, organ meats, blood, and raw milk6.

2. Raw Foods: Consuming raw animal-based foods is beneficial because cooking is said to denature and destroy nutrients, resulting in less nutrient density1.

3. Physiological Adaptation: The natural human stomach acid level (pH 1.5) is at the level of vultures, which supports the classification of humans as obligate hyper carnivores adapted for scavenging1.

4. Nutrient Availability: Humans can only obtain bioavailable and bioactive nutrients from animal-based foods2.

The Rejection of Plant-Based Foods

According to the sources, the idea that humans thrive on plant foods contradicts common sense and scientific findings:

• Toxicity and Availability: Before humans learned to cultivate and cross-breed plants, natural plants were largely inaccessible and toxic7. Not a single modern cultivated fruit or vegetable exists in nature7. The few "edible" items available in nature, such as small berries, roots, nuts, and mushrooms, were generally so toxic and tasted so terrible that a person could not consume enough to survive for long periods7.

• Toxicity and Damage: Any kind of plant-based food is said to cause toxicity and damage2. When humans consume things their physiology is not built for, they accumulate toxins, which damage tissues and organs8.

• Modern Disease: The introduction of cultivated and cross-bred plants resulted in "toxic high-yielding slave foods" that shortened lifespan and created "diseases" within a generation7.

Metabolic State and Body Composition

The natural human diet is intrinsically linked to the physical composition of the human body and metabolic function:

• Natural Leanness: As carnivores, humans following their species-appropriate diet would naturally be lean and strong6.... Naturally lean animals, such as lions or wolves, do not become fat in nature11.

• Fat Accumulation as Toxicity Storage: Fat accumulation, leading to people becoming chubby, overweight, or obese, is primarily due to consuming inappropriate food, such as plant-based and processed foods811. Fat acts as an energy storage but also stores toxins when the body cannot keep up with expelling them8. This toxicity overwhelms the body, leading to the accumulation of toxins in fat cells or even the creation of new fat cells8.

• Natural Metabolic State (Ketosis): The natural metabolic state for humans is ketosis, where the body runs efficiently on fat derived from animals or stored body fat12. All necessary glucose for intense physical bouts can be produced through gluconeogenesis12. Individuals who are fat adapted and used to ketosis are better prepared for fasting or famine situations12.

• Body Image in Nature: Indigenous carnivorous hunter tribes who consumed raw animal-based foods were typically athletic and very lean, exhibiting a level of muscularity and low body fat that is considered natural for the species6. This contrasts sharply with modern society, where the perception of what is "normal" has been altered due to widespread obesity and consumption of processed food13.

When humans transition back to this natural, species-appropriate diet (animal-based nutrition), they reportedly lose body fat until they reach their natural set-point11. Such a diet lacks the carbohydrates, seed/vegetable oils, or toxins that otherwise promote fat storage11. Furthermore, following this fully nourishing diet is suggested to allow individuals to maintain a low body fat level while thriving, healing, restoring hormones, and making progress14.

keep_pinSave to note

copy_all

thumb_up

thumb_down

Discuss Obligate Hyper Carnivores.

The discussion of obligate hyper carnivores, according to the sources, focuses primarily on the classification of humans as this type of animal species, the resulting physiological adaptations, and the implications for the species-appropriate diet and natural body composition12.

Definition and Classification of Humans

The sources assert that every fact and finding within the established fields of anthropology, biology, physiology, and biochemistry indicates that humans are obligate hyper carnivores1.

This classification is defined as:

• Meat-eaters and scavengers1.

• An animal adapted to be able to consume cadavers from other kills if necessary1.

• Humans are considered an animal species, just like any other animal living in nature, and are constructed and adapted for a very species-specific and species-appropriate diet12.

This simple fact—the origin of the natural human—is described as crucial to understand for future debates and lays the foundation for understanding everything within human biology and physiology13. The understanding that humans are obligate hyper carnivores is presented as something that should be common sense24.

Physiological and Metabolic Characteristics

The classification of humans as obligate hyper carnivores is supported by specific physiological characteristics:

• Stomach Acidity: Humans' natural stomach acid is at the level of vultures (pH 1.5)1. This high acidity is noted as a necessary adaptation for scavenging1.

• Optimal Food State: Being obligate hyper carnivores explains why humans perform better on raw animal-based foods1. Cooking is said to denature and destroy nutrients, reducing nutrient density1.

• Metabolic State: The knowledge that humans are obligate hyper carnivores proves that ketosis is our natural metabolic state5. We run efficiently on fat (either from animals or stored body fat) and produce all necessary glucose for intense physical bouts via gluconeogenesis5. This state of being "fat adapted" and in ketosis is deemed necessary for survival situations, such as fasting or famine5.

Dietary Requirements and Natural Appearance

As obligate hyper carnivores, humans have specific dietary requirements that should be followed to maintain health:

• Nutrient Source: Humans can only obtain bioavailable and bioactive nutrients from animal-based foods2.

• Plant-Based Foods: Consuming any kind of plant-based food will reportedly cause toxicity and damage2. Before man learned to cultivate and cross-breed plants, the only truly edible things available were animal-based foods4. Any plant foods available naturally were sparse, small, bitter, and often toxic4.

• Natural Body Composition: Carnivores in nature (like wolves, lions, and tigers) are typically quick and agile6. Naturally lean carnivore species do not become overweight or fat in nature; this only occurs in captivity when they are fed an inappropriate diet7.

• Human Body Fat: The natural state for humans, as obligate hyper carnivores, is to be fairly lean and strong78. Fat accumulation (becoming "chubby" or losing muscle definition) is considered unnatural and is primarily attributed to the extreme toxicity of inappropriate plant-based and processed foods79.

keep_pinSave to note

copy_all

thumb_up

thumb_down

Discuss Body Fat Loss.

The discussion of body fat loss, within the context of human physiology and what is considered natural, starts with the premise that humans are an animal species classified as obligate hyper carnivores12. For such a species, the natural state is to be lean and strong3.

The Natural Human Body Composition

In nature, lean animals do not become fat when following a species-appropriate diet4. You would never see an overweight lion, tiger, or wolf in the wild4. Similarly, the natural set-point for a human who adheres to their species-appropriate diet is to become fairly lean4.

Historical examples, such as indigenous hunter tribes who consumed raw meat, organ meats, blood, and raw milk, show athletic and very lean physiques5. Many of these individuals achieved a level of leanness and muscularity comparable to or better than modern short-distance runners (who often have body fat levels in the 6% to 8% range) without weight-lifting5.

The sources argue that low body fat is not unnatural, dangerous, or a health problem, provided the body remains fully nourished by consuming species-appropriate foods6. Toxicity, unnatural stress, and malnutrition are cited as the only problems6.

The Primary Cause of Fat Accumulation

Fat accumulation in modern humans is seen as a direct result of consuming an inappropriate diet47.

1. Inappropriate Foods: Humans become fat when they are consuming inappropriate food, such as plant-based and processed slave foods4. This food is described as being toxic and not appropriate for the human species7.

2. Toxicity and Storage: Extreme toxicity from plant-based and processed foods is the main reason people become overweight or obese7. The body accumulates toxins, which damage tissues and organs7. To limit this damage, the body tries to expel the toxins, but if it is overwhelmed by toxicity, stress, or nutrient deficiencies, it will store these toxins in existing fat cells or even create new fat cells to hold them7. This storage mechanism is cited as the recipe for the rapid fat gain leading to the extreme levels of obesity seen today7.

3. Absence of Fat-Promoting Toxins: The species-appropriate, animal-based diet is free from the toxins, carbohydrates, and seed/vegetable oils that promote fat storage4.

The Path to Body Fat Loss

The simplest method for fat loss is transitioning back to the natural species-appropriate diet4.

When a human switches to the natural, animal-based diet:

• They slowly lose body fat until their natural set-point is reached4.

• The toxic load is removed4.

• The body receives all the necessary nutrients to detoxify, heal, restore hormones, and repair accumulated damage4.

This approach works by operating with the body’s natural physiology rather than against it8.

Role of Ketosis and Fasting

The sources assert that the natural metabolic state for humans is ketosis, where the body runs efficiently on fat derived from animals or stored body fat9. Glucose needed for more intense physical activity is produced via gluconeogenesis9.

Strategies incorporating temporary restriction or fasting accelerate fat loss:

• Fasting: Fat loss and fasting are related topics in the material10. Fasting is considered something that would happen naturally in nature at times3.

• Energy Reserves: Even individuals with low body fat (e.g., 5% body fat, which may include 10 lbs or more of fat) have enough stored energy to sustain two weeks of complete fasting without losing muscle mass11. People around 10% body fat could fast or starve for three to six months without risk of dying9.

• Fat Adaptation is Crucial: To successfully fast or starve without feeling lethargic or suffering, a person needs to be fat adapted and accustomed to being in ketosis9. If a person has a damaged gluconeogenesis (often resulting from a diet high in toxic carbohydrates) or nutrient deficiencies (often from plant-based foods), they will suffer during a fast9.

• Experimental Results: A personal experiment detailed in the source demonstrated achieving significant fat loss by combining full satiety eating (animal-based foods) with incorporating a few "low days" every week and throwing in a few 36-hour fasts38. Over 77 days, with only about 20 days dedicated to this kind of "dieting," the individual dropped from 8.5% body fat to 5.2% (a loss of 6 kg or more of pure body fat)812. This was achieved without feeling tired, hungry, or experiencing cravings, proving it is possible to maintain a very low body fat level while thriving and making progress, provided the body is fully nourished8.

keep_pinSave to note

copy_all

thumb_up

thumb_down

Discuss Species Appropriate Diet.

The Species-Appropriate Diet, also referred to as the species-specific natural diet1, is described as the foundational and necessary eating plan for human biology, constructed based on the classification of the human species23.

Classification and Foundation

The entire approach to the species-appropriate diet begins with the understanding that humans are an animal species, constructed and adapted for a specific diet, just like any other animal in nature23.

Every fact and finding across the established fields of anthropology, biology, physiology, and biochemistry suggests that humans are obligate hyper carnivores24. This means humans are meat-eaters and scavengers, physiologically adapted to consume cadavers if necessary2.

Key facts supporting this classification and dictating the appropriate diet include:

• Stomach Acidity: The natural human stomach acid level is at the level of vultures (pH 1.5)2.

• Nutrient Availability: Humans can only acquire bioavailable and bioactive nutrients from animal-based foods4.

Composition of the Species-Appropriate Diet

The diet determined to be species-appropriate is animal-based45.

Historically, indigenous hunter tribes thrived on raw meat, organ meats, blood, and raw milk6. The preference for raw consumption is noted because cooking is said to denature and destroy nutrients, resulting in decreased nutrient density2.

The species-appropriate diet must supply all the nutrients the body needs to heal, detoxify, and restore hormones7.

Exclusion of Plant-Based Foods

A central component of defining the species-appropriate diet is the rigorous exclusion of plant-based foods, which are considered fundamentally toxic to human physiology:

• Toxicity and Damage: Any form of plant-based food is believed to cause toxicity and damage to the human body4. When a person consumes things their physiology is not built for, they accumulate toxins that harm tissues and organs8.

• Unnatural Origins: The natural diet existed before humans learned to cultivate and cross-breed plants9. Not one single modern cultivated fruit or vegetable exists in nature9.

• Historical Toxicity: The few natural items available in the wild—such as very small berries, roots, nuts, and mushrooms—were generally so toxic and tasted so terrible that early humans could not consume enough to survive for longer periods9.

• Modern Disease: The introduction of cultivated plants resulted in "toxic high-yielding slave foods" that reportedly shortened lifespans and created "diseases" within a generation9.

Impact on Metabolism and Body Composition

Following the species-appropriate diet aligns the body with its natural metabolic state and physical appearance10.

1. Natural Metabolic State (Ketosis): The knowledge that humans are obligate hyper carnivores proves that ketosis is our natural metabolic state11. The body is designed to run efficiently on fat derived from animals or stored body fat. This state allows the body to produce all necessary glucose for intense physical activity via gluconeogenesis11.

2. Natural Leanness: As carnivores, humans following their species-appropriate diet are naturally lean and strong12. It is considered impossible for a naturally lean animal species (like a lion or wolf) to become fat in nature while following its appropriate diet7.

3. Fat Loss and Detoxification: When humans transition back to this natural diet, they typically slowly lose body fat until they reach their natural set-point7. Fat accumulation (being chubby, overweight, or obese) is primarily attributed to consuming inappropriate food, specifically plant-based and processed foods78. Fat acts as energy storage but also stores toxins when the body is overwhelmed and cannot expel them8. The species-appropriate diet lacks the toxins, carbohydrates, or seed/vegetable oils that promote fat storage7.

4. Body Image: Indigenous carnivorous hunter tribes who consumed raw animal-based foods were typically athletic and very lean, often looking better and leaner than modern short-distance runners6. This low body fat level is considered natural for the species when following the appropriate diet and being physically active6. A very low level of body fat is deemed harmless as long as the person remains fully nourished by consuming plenty of species-appropriate foods13.

keep_pinSave to note

copy_all

thumb_up

thumb_down

Discuss Toxicity and Obesity.

The connection between toxicity and obesity, according to the sources, is presented as a fundamental consequence of consuming foods inappropriate for the human species, which is classified as **The connection between toxicity and obesity, according to the sources, is presented as a fundamental consequence of consuming foods inappropriate for the human species, which is classified as obligate hyper carnivore12.

The Role of Toxicity in Fat Accumulation

The core argument regarding obesity is that fat accumulation (becoming chubby, overweight, or obese) is not the natural state for humans3.

1. Storage of Toxins: While body fat serves as stored energy, a major reason people become overweight or obese is that fat stores toxins when the body cannot keep up with expelling them34.

2. Source of Toxicity: The primary source of this toxicity is the consumption of inappropriate food, specifically plant-based and processed slave foods35. Any item consumed that human physiology is not built for will lead to the accumulation of toxins23.

3. Accumulation and Damage: These accumulated toxins damage tissues and organs23. The body attempts to limit this damage by trying its best to get rid of the toxins3.

4. Creating New Fat Cells: If an individual is overwhelmed by toxicity and/or stress, or if they have nutrient deficiencies, the body may respond by storing toxins in existing fat cells or even creating new fat cells to hold these toxins3. This mechanism is described as a recipe for rapid fat gain, which explains the extreme levels of obesity observed today3.

The Unnaturalness of Obesity

The sources emphasize that obesity is an unnatural state for humans, who are naturally intended to be lean and strong5....

• Natural Carnivores: Natural, lean carnivore species (like lions or wolves) do not become fat in nature5. They only become fat in captivity when fed an inappropriate diet5.

• Human Body Composition: Being merely "chubby," which is described as having blurred abdominal muscles and smoothed muscle bellies and insertions, is considered unnatural3. No lean animal would accumulate so much fat on a species-appropriate diet that they would lose all muscle definition3.

• Dietary Contrast: The extreme toxicity of plant-based and processed foods is what causes the fat accumulation seen in modern humans3. In contrast, the natural, species-appropriate diet is animal-based and contains no carbohydrates, seed/vegetable oils, or toxins that promote fat storage5.

Healing and Restoration through Species-Appropriate Diet

Switching back to the natural, species-appropriate diet is presented as the solution to removing toxicity and restoring the body to its natural state:

• Detoxification and Healing: A fully nourished, animal-based diet supplies all the necessary nutrients the body needs to detoxify, heal, restore hormones, and work as intended25.

• Natural Leanness: Every human who transitions back to the natural species-appropriate diet reportedly slowly loses body fat until they reach their natural set-point, becoming fairly lean56.

• Health Problems: Any "problem," "ailment," or "disease" can thus be fixed or massively improved by removing the offending toxins and nourishing the body2.

The only caveat for low body fat is the increased vulnerability to famine due to less stored energy, but this does not negatively impact hormones or health, provided the individual remains fully nourished on species-appropriate foods8. The only problems are cited as toxicity, unnatural stress, and malnutrition8.

keep_pinSave to note

copy_all

thumb_up

thumb_down