For all the meat lovers out there, this one might just be for you. Recently, the carnivore diet has imploded over social media as a radical approach to nutrition, advocating for a diet composed solely of animal products.
With many carnivore diet eaters claiming health benefits and critics warning of potential risks, the question on everyones mind is, is it a fad? We are debunking the intricacies of what is known as the carnivore diet.
What is the carnivore diet?
The carnivore diet is a dietary approach or meal plan, derived from a ketogenic diet, which emphasises the consumption of animal products, excluding all plant-based foods.
Followers of this diet typically consume meat, chicken, pork, fish, eggs, and certain dairy products for every meal of the day, while avoiding fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, and processed foods.
On a regular day, our bodies use glucose from carbohydrates as a source of energy. When glucose is absent, the process of ketosis occurs in the body. During ketosis, the body burns fat instead of carbohydrates as a fuel source.
With carbs missing in action, the liver steps forward to break down fat storage to produce energy.
Before you start!
Before adopting this dietary approach, it’s essential to weigh the potential benefits against the drawbacks of this diet. The best way to do so is to make an informed decision with the guidance of healthcare professionals.
Anyone who is pregnant or nursing, living with diabetes, having cardiac issues or having gallbladder stones should avoid this dietary approach at all costs.
Are there any health benefits?
Reported weight loss
Some individuals have reported significant weight loss while consuming a carnivore diet. The reduced carbohydrate intake and increased satiety from protein-rich foods have proven that this eating habit could be an option when looking to slim down.
@gutpunchmommy ✨Well the thing is…..Moderation never worked for ME…CARNIVORE changed my life💪🏼 #worldcarnivoremonth #carnivoretok #carnivorediet #carnivorebenefits #carnivore #beforeandafter ♬ original sound – Gutpunchmommy
The simple choice
Advocates praise the simplicity of this diet as it eliminates the need for complex meal planning and food choices. There are processed foods when it comes to eating a full, free-range, organic carnivore diet.
Hold the inflammation
If you are feeling a bit puffy and heavy due to internal inflammation, the carnivore diet is something to consider. Certain inflammatory conditions may improve on from carnivore diet due to the elimination of potentially irritating plant foods.
Other benefits include:
- Clear skin
- Zero brain fog
- Easy bowel movements
But what are the risks?
- Nutrient deficiencies: The exclusion of plant foods can lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients such as fibre, vitamins C and E, potassium, and phytonutrients, increasing the risk of long-term health complications.
- Increased risk of heart disease: A diet high in animal products, particularly red meat, is associated with a higher risk of heart disease and stroke as the fat content could be high. Watch out for gout as well
- Digestive issues: A diet filled with meat sounds heavy. The lack of fibre from plant foods can disrupt gut health and lead to constipation, digestive discomfort, and an imbalance in gut microbiota.
The day in the life of a carnivore eater
So what do meat times look like while partaking in the carnivore diet?
Breakfast: Three eggs cooked in butter, ham or bacon and cheese (optional)
Lunch: Rib eye steak, bone broth and biltong
Dinner: Hamburger patties and bacon
Snack: Cubes of parmesan cheese
@steakandbuttergal #carnivorediet #carnivore #butter #animalbased ♬ original sound – Steakandbuttergal | Carnivore
Health tip: There has been concern about kidney function leading to damage from the high protein intake so it is advised to consult a medical practitioner before starting a radical eating plan like this one.
Compiled by: Amy Steenkamp
First published by Woman & home
Also see: This is what happens when you reduce your daily sugar intake
