I wrote a Haiku:

Trying to diet

Trying to diet harder

Soft in the middle

And then I chatted with AI:

1. Is it safe for humans to be frugivores? Being a frugivore – someone who eats primarily or exclusively fruit – can be safe for short periods and might have some health benefits, but it also comes with serious nutritional risks if followed long term without careful planning.

2. Please list the benefits if done right. 

Potential Benefits (short-term or well-planned):

• High in antioxidants: Fruits are rich in vitamins (like C and A), minerals, and phytonutrients.

• Hydrating: Many fruits have high water content.

• Digestive support: High in fiber (though too much can irritate the gut for some).

• Weight loss: Low in fat and protein, high in volume—can reduce calorie intake.

3. How about the risks? 

Potential Risks (especially long-term):

• Protein Deficiency – Fruits contain very little protein. Long-term lack of protein can lead to muscle loss, fatigue, and immune dysfunction.

• Vitamin and Mineral Deficiencies. B12 is found only in animal products or supplements. Iron, zinc, calcium is harder to get from fruit alone, and less bioavailable. Omega-3 fatty acids: Not present in significant amounts in fruit.

• Blood Sugar Spikes – Fruits are high in natural sugars, which can affect blood glucose levels, especially in people with insulin resistance or diabetes.

• Tooth decay – Constant exposure to fruit sugars and acids can damage enamel.

• Low calorie intake – You might struggle to get enough energy from fruit alone, leading to fatigue and weight loss (not always desired).

4. What is the best diet for a human being? 

Great question – and a big one! [I love it when AI throws a compliment]. The best diet for a human being isn’t one-size-fits-all, but there are some core principles backed by science that apply to nearly everyone. The “best” diet really depends on your goals, lifestyle, health status, and even your genetics and culture. These are the common denominators found in populations with high longevity and low disease (like Blue Zones):

• Whole, minimally processed foods

• Plants: Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds

• Healthy fats: Avocados, olive oil, fatty fish, nuts

• Lean protein: Fish, eggs, legumes, tofu, occasional meat if desired

• Fermented foods: Yogurt, kimchi, miso, kefir for gut health

• Water as the main drink

Limit or avoid:

• Ultra-processed foods (chips, sugary drinks, most fast food)

• Refined sugars and grains

• Excess red or processed meat

• Trans fats and industrial seed oils (e.g., hydrogenated oils)

• Alcohol (or keep it moderate)

Diets That Tend to Work Well Long-Term include:

Mediterranean Diet – heart-healthy, balanced, includes wine, fish, olive oil, lots of veggies.

Whole Food Plant-Based – Great for heart health, longevity, lower inflammation.

DASH Diet – Designed to lower blood pressure; high in plants, low in salt.

Flexitarian Diet – Mostly plant-based with occasional animal products – easier to stick with.

Traditional Asian or Nordic diets – Emphasis on seasonal, local, balanced meals – low in processed food.

5.  Is ravioli considered a processed food?

Yep – ravioli is generally considered a processed food, though there are degrees to it depending on how it’s made. [Dang!]

6.   Is Keto ice cream considered a processed food?

Yes, Keto ice cream is considered a processed food, even though it may have a “health halo” because of the low carb label. If you’re doing Keto or low-carb and craving a treat, Keto ice cream is way better than grabbing a regular pint of Ben & Jerry’s—but it’s still a sometimes food, not a health food.

RAMONA JAN is the Founder and Director of Yarnslingers, a storytelling group that tells tales both fantastic and true. She is also the roving historian for Callicoon, NY and is often seen giving tours around town. You can email her at callicoonwalkingtours@gmail.com.