The carnivore diet is a restrictive eating plan that consists of only meat, fish, eggs, and dairy. It eliminates all plant foods, including fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, and nuts.
The diet was popularized by Shawn Baker, a former orthopedic surgeon who claims that the carnivore diet cured his autoimmune disease. Baker has written several books about the diet, and his website, MeatRx.com, has become a popular resource for people interested in trying the diet.
The carnivore diet is based on the idea that humans are not designed to eat plants. Proponents of the diet argue that our bodies are better suited to digesting meat, and that eating plants can cause inflammation and other health problems.
There is some scientific evidence to support the claims of the carnivore diet. For example, one study found that people who followed a carnivore diet for one month lost more weight than people who followed a standard low-fat diet. The carnivore diet also appears to improve blood sugar control and reduce inflammation.
However, there is also some evidence that the carnivore diet can be harmful. For example, one study found that people who followed a carnivore diet for one month had lower levels of vitamin C and other important nutrients. The diet can also be difficult to maintain, and it may not be suitable for everyone.
If you are considering trying the carnivore diet, it is important to talk to your doctor first. They can help you assess whether the diet is right for you and make sure that you are getting the nutrients you need.
Here are some of the things that happen when you go carnivore:
- Weight loss: Many people who go carnivore report losing weight. This is likely due to the fact that the diet is high in protein and fat, which are both very satiating.
- Improved blood sugar control: The carnivore diet can help to improve blood sugar control in people with diabetes or insulin resistance. This is because the diet is low in carbohydrates, which are the body’s main source of glucose.
- Reduced inflammation: The carnivore diet can help to reduce inflammation in the body. This is because the diet eliminates inflammatory foods, such as grains, legumes, and processed foods.
- Improved gut health: The carnivore diet can help to improve gut health by increasing the diversity of gut bacteria. This is because the diet is high in fiber, which is a food source for beneficial bacteria.
- More energy: Many people who go carnivore report having more energy. This is likely due to the fact that the diet is high in protein and fat, which are both metabolized slowly and provide a sustained release of energy.
- Clearer skin: The carnivore diet can help to improve skin clarity by reducing inflammation and increasing the production of collagen.
- Improved mood: The carnivore diet can help to improve mood by reducing inflammation and increasing the production of serotonin.
Here are some of the risks of the carnivore diet:
- Nutrient deficiencies: The carnivore diet can lead to nutrient deficiencies, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and fiber. This is because the diet eliminates many nutrient-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Kidney problems: The carnivore diet can be hard on the kidneys, especially if you have a pre-existing kidney condition. This is because the diet is high in protein, which can put a strain on the kidneys.
- Heart disease: The carnivore diet is high in saturated fat, which can increase your risk of heart disease.
- Cancer: The carnivore diet is high in red meat, which has been linked to an increased risk of cancer.
If you are considering trying the carnivore diet, it is important to talk to your doctor first. They can help you assess whether the diet is right for you and make sure that you are getting the nutrients you need.