How to Start the Carnivore Diet
There is testimonial after testimonial online of people starting the carnivore diet and losing fat rapidly, reducing autoimmune symptoms and improving mental health - but is this diet too good to be true?
In this post we go into exactly why the carnivore diet is effective, how it can improve your health and how to get started today!
What is the Carnivore Diet?
The carnivore diet is a way of eating where you only eat food from the animal kingdom. It is also known as "Zero Carb" (although some animal products do contain small amounts of carbohydrates. Because this way of eating is high in fat and low in carb, your body will begin producing ketones for energy (this is also known as "being in ketosis"). If you are not already familiar with ketosis, read this first.
You might be wondering what makes the carnivore diet different from a keto diet. The difference is the keto diet still includes plants (fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, etc.), whereas the carnivore diet does not. While some people can do well and reach their goals on a keto diet, I believe the carnivore diet is superior.
Benefits of the Carnivore Diet
So why would someone want to eat this way? As previously mentioned, when you are eating minimal carbs you will be in ketosis. Some of the benefits of the carnivore diet stem from this, but some go beyond that. Here are some improvements others have experienced from the carnivore diet:
rapid fat loss
increased energy
blood sugar regulation
more in tune with hunger cues
improved digestion
reduced bloating
cleared acne
higher quality sleep
general improvements to skin, hair and nails
improved thyroid function
reduced arthritis
cleared psoriasis and eczema
increased libido
The list goes on!
What Can You Eat on the Carnivore Diet?
On a carnivore diet you can eat any type of meat, fish or animal product. All animals and foods that come from animals (ex. eggs) are allowed.
Some of the foods you might eat include:
beef
lamb
pork
chicken
turkey
goat
oysters
shrimp
lobster
crab
deer
organ meats
bone broth
dairy (if you tolerate it)
When cooking you can use:
tallow
lard
duck fat
ghee
butter
Food You Cannot Eat on a Carnivore Diet
Here are some foods that are not apart of, and can be counterproductive, to a carnivore diet:
fruits
vegetables
grains
wheat
seeds
nuts
beans
plant oils
Exceptions to the Rule
Coffee is the one plant food that is generally accepted on the carnivore diet. Drink it black if possible, or add a bit of butter or heavy cream (if including dairy).
Herbs and spices are also generally accepted on the carnivore diet.
The benefits of the carnivore diet are plentiful and the downsides are minimal. Why not give the diet a try and see how it can benefit you?
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN TRYING THE CARNIVORE DIET BUT NOT SURE WHERE TO START?
This website is for general informational purposes only. It must never be considered a substitute for advice provided by a doctor or other qualified healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare professional with questions you may have regarding your medical condition.