Deep down in your marrow (pun intended), you know you’re a carnivore. Yes, you —and you’re not alone. More and more people are sinking their teeth into the all-meat, no-veggie carnivore diet and claiming all sorts of health benefits. Love a T-bone but unsure about this trend? Put your steak knives down and I’ll answer all your meaty questions.
What on Earth is the Carnivore Diet?
The Carnivore Diet is almost exactly what it sounds like. Say goodbye to your cauliflower rice and quinoa; this style of eating calls for consuming only animal products. If you can catch it, hunt it, or fish it – it’s on the menu.
Should I say Goodbye to my Vegetables?
In theory, yes. In practice, it varies person to person. Hard-core carnivore dieters limit their intake to beef, salt, and water. However, carnivores with a less rigorous dietary approach might still enjoy foods like dairy or even the odd piece of fruit. Regardless of your level of commitment, one thing is certain: tofu and lentils are out of the question.
Will I Get Enough Nutrients?
Ironically, you might have healthier nutrient intake on a carnivore diet. Animal products – particularly organ meats – are crammed full of vitamins and minerals. Every bite of liver is a tasty multivitamin. Still worried about your vitamin C? Remember, scurvy was a pirate problem, not a Paleo diet problem.
Health Benefits and Risks.
The reported health benefits of this way of eating read like a Ginsu knife commercial. Supporters claim everything from weight loss, improved mental clarity, control of autoimmune issues, and increased athleticism. Some claim it even helps with depression and anxiety. Remember though, these musings are largely anecdotal. Scientific, peer-reviewed research on the Carnivore Diet is still in its infancy.
As for the risks, remember this isn’t your grandmother’s meat and potatoes diet. Yes, there is concern about the high intake of saturated fats, and the possible impact on heart health. You may need to remind your doctor that cholesterol levels are a little more complex than the “bad cholesterol / good cholesterol” mantra that has dominated the conversation for the last fifty years.
Transitioning to the Carnivore Diet.
It’s not just about deleting greenery on your plate. You must be proactive to keep your digestion running smoothly. Increasing your salt and water intake can help manage the ‘Carnivore Diet Transition Flu’ and keep your energy levels up. Take it slow — Rome wasn’t built in a day, and your gut needs time to adjust and optimize to a meat-only diet.
Plan Before You Pan Fry.
Before you embrace your inner carnivore, there are a couple of things you should plan for:
The “all meat, all the time” approach can be hard on the wallet, so be ready for potential increases in your grocery bills. Secondly, prepare yourself for the social implications – when was the last time you attended a dinner party where the main course was ‘steak with a side of steak’?
Lastly, remember that no diet, even the Carnivore Diet, is a one-size-fits-all solution. Check with your doctor or a nutrition professional to ensure this dietary approach is the best fit for your individual health and lifestyle.
Takeaway
Embracing the Carnivore Diet is a journey, not just a switch of pantry staples. Be prepared to experiment, and listen to your body’s feedback. It can be a game-changer for some, while others find their best health with a more balanced plate. So sharpen your knives, sear your steaks, and delve in to see if the Carnivore Diet is your brand of prime cut!