6 Signs You Should Try the Carnivore Diet (and 3 Signs You Shouldn’t!)

The Carnivore Diet: Is It Right for You?

The carnivore diet has surged in popularity in recent years, with many claiming it has transformed their health, while others remain skeptical. This diet, which consists exclusively of animal-based foods, eliminates all plant-based foods, including vegetables, fruits, grains, and legumes.

For some, it offers relief from digestive issues, inflammation, and even mental health struggles. For others, it may not be sustainable or suitable. If you’ve been considering carnivore, here are six signs that suggest it might be a great fit for you—and three signs that indicate you should probably avoid it.

What Is the Carnivore Diet?

The carnivore diet is exactly what it sounds like—a diet made up entirely of animal-based foods. This means eating only meat, fish, eggs, and dairy (if tolerated), while eliminating all plant-based foods. The primary goal of this diet is to remove plant compounds that can cause inflammation, disrupt digestion, or lead to blood sugar imbalances.

While some people thrive on this diet, others may find it restrictive or unsuitable for their health needs. Let’s explore who is most likely to benefit from carnivore.

6 Signs You Should Try the Carnivore Diet

1. You Have Digestive Issues or Food Intolerances

If you experience frequent bloating, gas, acid reflux, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)-like symptoms, you may have food intolerances that are triggered by plant compounds such as lectins, oxalates, and fructose. The carnivore diet removes these potential irritants, giving your gut a chance to heal. Many people report improved digestion and relief from chronic gut discomfort after switching to carnivore.

2. You Struggle with Histamine Intolerance

Histamine intolerance can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

• Skin rashes, hives, or eczema

• Migraines or frequent headaches

• Runny nose, congestion, or asthma-like symptoms

Many plant-based foods are high in histamines or act as histamine triggers. Cutting them out can significantly reduce symptoms and improve overall well-being.

3. You Have Sugar Cravings and Blood Sugar Imbalances

If you constantly crave sweets, feel hangry between meals, or experience blood sugar crashes, you may have insulin resistance. The carnivore diet eliminates all sugar and carbohydrates, stabilizing insulin levels and reducing cravings. Many people find that after a few weeks on carnivore, their energy levels become more stable, and their cravings disappear.

4. You Want a Simple, Structured Approach to Weight Loss

One of the biggest appeals of the carnivore diet is its simplicity. There’s no need to count calories, track macros, or follow complicated meal plans. You eat when you’re hungry, stop when you’re full, and avoid all processed foods and carbohydrates. Because protein and fat are highly satiating, most people naturally eat fewer calories and lose weight effortlessly.

5. You’ve Struggled with Mental Health Issues

There is increasing evidence linking diet and mental health. Many people on the carnivore diet report:

• Improved focus and concentration

• Reduced anxiety and depression symptoms

• More stable moods

This could be due to the elimination of processed foods, sugar, and plant toxins that contribute to inflammation in the brain.

6. You Have an Autoimmune Condition

For those with autoimmune disorders, plant compounds can sometimes trigger flare-ups. The carnivore diet serves as the ultimate elimination diet, allowing individuals to identify food sensitivities and reduce inflammation. Some have seen improvements in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and psoriasis by switching to carnivore.

3 Signs You Shouldn’t Try the Carnivore Diet

1. You Tried It and Didn’t Feel Better

Not every diet works for everyone. If you gave carnivore a fair shot and felt worse, there’s no need to force it. Your body may thrive on more dietary variety, and that’s okay.

2. You’re Underweight and Struggle to Gain Weight

The carnivore diet is extremely satiating, meaning you might not eat enough calories. If you already struggle with:

• Keeping weight on

• Low appetite

• Energy issues due to undereating

Then the carnivore diet may not provide the necessary calories and nutrients your body needs.

3. You Don’t Enjoy Red Meat

While you can technically follow carnivore with poultry and seafood, red meat provides essential nutrients like vitamin B12, iron, and healthy fats that are hard to get elsewhere. If you don’t enjoy beef or lamb, this diet may be too restrictive.

Final Thoughts: Is Carnivore Right for You?

The carnivore diet isn’t for everyone, but it can be a game-changer for those struggling with digestive issues, autoimmune conditions, sugar cravings, and inflammation. If you identify with the six signs mentioned above, it may be worth trying. However, if you have difficulty maintaining your weight, dislike meat, or didn’t feel better on carnivore, it may not be the best fit for you.

The bottom line? Personalized nutrition is key. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to health and wellness.

Have you tried the carnivore diet? What was your experience like? Let me know in the comments!