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When it comes to diets, many individuals have different opinions and preferences on what they like to eat and what not to eat. Of these topics, the carnivore diet often comes up in conversation. Often called the “no carb diet,” the carnivore diet is a meal plan set up for an individual to only eat meat, eggs, fish, and drink only water. It is based on the constant intake of meat and fish, cutting out foods such as fruits, vegetables, and nuts. Let’s explore the pros and cons of this diet to see if it is the one for you!   

Pros: 

  • Weight loss: When one undergoes the carnivore diet, they lose a significant amount of weight. This is because the diet is low in carbohydrates while high in protein and fat. 
  • Blood Sugar Regulation: Since the carnivore diet is low in carbohydrates, it has a large impact on blood sugar and insulin levels. Lower carbohydrate diets such as this usually result in lower blood sugar levels.
  • Improved Digestion: The carnivore diet can reduce inflammation and bloating. The elimination of a lot of different food groups on this diet can also help one’s body undergo a “cleanse,” allowing their body to look and feel at its top shape.
  • Increase in Energy: With the decrease of sugar as well as processed foods entering the body, there will be less room for energy crashed in the body. This also keeps blood sugar levels stable.

Cons:

  • High Intake of Red Meat: The carnivore diet is based on eating mostly red meat for your meals. A high increase of red meat has been closely linked to different cancers as well as heart disease. 
  • Unhealthy Fats: As previously stated, the carnivore diet is based on red meat, which comes from animals. Animal fat is said to be one of the unhealthiest fats, as it is mostly saturated, which raises cholesterol levels.
  • Rise in Cholesterol Levels: Since the carnivore diet is based off of the constant intake of meat, it can lead to very high protein intake. This can be closely associated with conditions such as osteoporosis and kidney stones. 
  • Low Plant Based Foods: The carnivore diet eliminates most plant based foods. Lack of plant based foods can lead to fatigue, poor gut health, and constipation. 

The carnivore diet is a diet that is based on the constant intake of meat and fish, cutting out foods such as fruits, vegetables, and nuts. Although there are many positives to the carnivore diet, there are also life threatening negatives associated with the diet. It is important to always research a diet you are considering undergoing, as there can be many underlying factors that need to be considered for you and your overall health. If this diet seems like the one for you, give it a try and see how it transforms you!

Written by GUADS intern Chris, with contributions from health.harvard.edu, stronghealth.com, and health.com.