Ray Peat: Why Excess Glygolysis Is Dangerous

Introduction

Excess glycolysis, the metabolic pathway where glucose is broken down to lactic acid, has been identified by Ray Peat as a significant health concern. While glycolysis is a normal cellular process, its overactivation can lead to a range of metabolic and cellular issues.

Inefficiency and Energy Drain

Peat highlights that glycolysis is a less efficient energy-producing process compared to mitochondrial respiration. Excess glycolysis leads to the production of lactate, which drains energy when converted back to glucose in the liver​​.

Impact on Mitochondrial Function

Excessive glycolysis, according to Peat, can degrade mitochondrial structure and function. This is particularly due to the accumulation of lactic acid, which disrupts the stability of the mitochondrial phase. The Crabtree effect, which is the suppression of respiration by glycolysis, is often observed in this context​​.

Lactic Acid as a Toxic Byproduct

Peat considers lactic acid, a byproduct of glycolysis, as potentially toxic. Excessive lactic acid production and accumulation can lead to a decrease in cellular energy and adaptability, impacting overall cellular health​​.

Aerobic Glycolysis and Cancer

Aerobic glycolysis, where glucose is converted to lactic acid even in the presence of oxygen, is a hallmark of cancer metabolism. Peat suggests that minimizing endotoxin absorption and optimizing hormones and nutrition could counteract aerobic glycolysis, improving bowel health and hormonal functions​​.

Glycolysis During Stress

Peat notes that stress can activate glycolysis while shutting down more efficient oxidative metabolism. This response is maladaptive and contributes to the Crabtree effect, where respiration is inhibited in the presence of lactate​​.

Hormonal and Metabolic Effects

Hormones like estrogen can activate the glycolytic pathway, which is detrimental to mitochondrial respiration. Conversely, substances like aspirin can activate both glycolysis and mitochondrial respiration, leading to a favorable shift in metabolism​​.

Glycolysis and Diseases

Peat observes that diseases like diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and general aging are associated with increased glycolysis and lactic acid production. This leads to mitochondrial damage and a suppression of glucose oxidation​​.

Preventative Measures

To prevent the harmful effects of excess glycolysis, Peat recommends avoiding foods containing lactic acid and stress-promoting antithyroid unsaturated oils. He emphasizes the importance of a high carbon dioxide background to prevent anaerobic glycolysis​​.

Conclusion

Excess glycolysis, according to Ray Peat, poses a significant threat to cellular and metabolic health, particularly due to the production of lactic acid and its impact on mitochondrial function. By understanding and moderating this metabolic pathway through dietary and lifestyle changes, individuals can improve their overall health and mitigate the risks associated with excess glycolysis.