Unveil the Restricted Foods of This Diet
The carnivore diet is more than just a catchy name; it accurately describes the essence of the diet: meat. While variations of the carnivore diet have existed for centuries, some claim even thousands of years, the modern interpretation of this meat-centric regimen gained popularity in 2019 with the publication of a book by Shawn Baker. Although “meat” is unquestionably synonymous with the carnivore diet, what about other animal-based products like eggs and dairy? Keep reading to discover all the specifics of what is permitted on this contentious eating plan.
What Exactly Is The Carnivore Diet?
This dietary regimen revolves exclusively around animal-based foods. According to Lauren Manaker, MS, RDN, LD, CLEC, a registered dietitian, the diet primarily consists of meat, fish, eggs, and sometimes animal-derived products like dairy. The carnivore diet excludes all plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Manaker explains, “The concept behind the carnivore diet is to depend on nutrient-rich, animal-based sources for sustenance and energy while avoiding potential irritants or allergens present in plant foods.” Michelle Routhenstein, MS, RD, CDCES, CDN, a dietitian specializing in heart disease, describes the carnivore diet as an “extreme elimination diet.”
Why Is the Carnivore Diet Gaining Popularity?
Riding on the coattails of the trendy keto and low-carb diets, the carnivore diet has become a popular choice within the fitness community. Influencers have promoted its perceived health benefits and success stories. Manaker notes that many individuals have reported improvements in weight management, gut health, mental clarity, and reduced inflammation. Some proponents argue that early human ancestors predominantly consumed animal-based diets, making carnivory a part of human evolution. By reducing glucose and other sugar sources, the body burns fat. While traditional keto diets may permit minimal carbohydrate intake, the carnivore diet is the most extreme, completely eliminating carbs. The potential relief from gastric issues and weight loss are attractive short-term incentives.
What Foods Are Prominent in the Carnivore Diet?
The mainstays of the carnivore diet include nutrient-dense cuts of beef, pork, lamb, chicken, and fish. Organ meats like liver and heart are encouraged due to their high vitamin and mineral content, and eggs are often included in many versions of the diet. Eggs are considered a fundamental food item for many followers due to their rich protein content, beneficial fats, and essential nutrients such as vitamins A, D, E, and K. Low-lactose dairy products like butter, heavy cream, and certain cheeses are commonly allowed. Bone broth is also favored for its collagen and healing properties.
What Foods Are Prohibited on the Carnivore Diet?
If it’s not animal-based, it has no place in the carnivore diet. Routhenstein emphasizes that the diet excludes all
“Nesium, which are more abundant in fruits and vegetables. As a cardiovascular dietitian, I do not recommend the carnivore diet,” Routhenstein says. “It is very high in saturated fat and low in essential nutrients like fiber, vitamin C, folate, and antioxidants, which are vital for optimal heart health. A diet high in saturated fat can raise atherogenic cholesterol levels and contribute to insulin resistance, both of which are key factors in cardiometabolic health. The restrictive nature of the diet can make it difficult for some to sustain, posing challenges to both adherence and overall nutritional balance, and the long-term impacts of the diet are not fully studied. The bottom line: The carnivore diet puts a focus squarely on animal-based food ingredients—from meat to animal-derived products such as eggs and dairy—and eliminates plant-based and processed foods. While some report benefits in weight loss and fewer gastric irritants, dietitians recommend a balanced diet with a mix of nutrients for long-term health. You Might Also Like Insanely Easy Weeknight Dinners To Try This Week 29 Insanely Delicious Vodka Cocktails.”
