Hey, fellow food lovers! Have you ever thought to yourself, “Wow, I could really go for a steak right now… and for every other meal of my life?” If that sounds like a dream come true, then buckle up, because boy do I have a diet plan for you! Welcome to the wild world of the Carnivore Diet, where it’s meat o’clock all the time.
What is the Carnivore Diet?
Think Paleo, but with an extra dose of Jurassic Park. The Carnivore Diet is a movement that advocates for a diet consisting entirely —yes, entirely— of meat and animal products. Fruits, vegetables, grains, sugars, other carbs? Sorry, those don’t have a place here. This diet literally means “meat and two veg” without the two veg.
Why on Earth Would I do This?
Good question, my skeptical friend. Advocates of the Carnivore Diet make the argument that our ancient human ancestors were predominantly meat-eaters and that our bodies are idealistically designed to digest and use meat for fuel.
Some people choose the Carnivore Diet for weight loss, boosted energy, food allergy alleviation, or mood stabilization. Everyone has their reasons, and it’s vital to consult with a health professional before making significant dietary changes.
What Can I Eat on the Carnivore Diet?
Without the risk of sounding repetitive: meat!
Beef, chicken, pork, lamb, fish— it’s all on the menu. Remember that variety is essential even while riding the Carnivore train. Additionally, you’re not limited to just lean cuts. The Carnivore Diet encourages appreciating the whole spectrum of meat, including organ meats, bone marrow, and even animal-based proteins like eggs.
What Can’t I Eat on the Carnivore Diet?
It’d be easier to list what you can eat, but, for clarity’s sake, here’s the list: fruits, vegetables, legumes, seeds, nuts, grains, bread, sugary sweets, and anything else that doesn’t moo, cluck, or swim.
Wait, What About Nutrients?!
Ah, I see you’re thinking critically. Yes, it’s true that most of our society’s primary nutrient sources don’t have a place in the Carnivore Diet. However, proponents of this dietary lifestyle assert that our bodies can access all necessary nutrients from meat alone. Of course, like any diet, individual results and experiences may vary.
Let’s Talk About Side Effects
The Carnivore Diet isn’t for everyone (much to the relief of vegetarians and vegans everywhere).
Some people report experiencing ‘low-carb flu’ symptoms such as muscle aches, fatigue, and brain fog as they transition to the Carnivore Diet. Others experience severe cravings for nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables (shocking, I know).
Negative effects can include constipation due to the lack of dietary fiber, nutrient deficiencies, and potential harm from increased intake of harmful substances in meat such as certain chemicals and saturated fats. It’s a high-cholesterol, high-sodium eating plan which means it’s not recommended to those with heart issues, kidney diseases or hypertension.
The Meat and Potatoes… Err… Just Meat of the Matter
Going full Carnivore is a big decision and should be approached with careful consideration and advice from a healthcare professional. But, for those carnivores among us who already feel a strong kinship with the T-Rex way of life— it might just be a worthwhile experiment. Just remember to balance your meats, include diversity, and always keep an eye on how you’re feeling. Happy dining!