People have noticed the difference and more and more are asking me about the Carnivore Diet. Actually, Carnivores will tell you that it’s not a diet, it’s a Way of Eating (WoE). I’m no expert on the subject, far from there. But I did my research prior to embarking into this crazy lifestyle change. I’ll tell you that, in a nutshell, Carnivores are re-conditioning their body to change from feeding on carbs and sugar and to feed on fat, while dropping processed foods. I will provide below a lot of details which will answer many of your questions, including a list of medical experts you can follow to learn more.
So on June 20th, 2024, I embarked into this life changing experience called the Carnivore Lifestyle.
I was hoping that it would help with some chronic issues that I’ve had, many of them carrying over a long, long time: (in no particular order of importance)
Sinus issues since 1999 (congestion, several surgeries)
Allergies
Sleep Apnea
Snoring
Heartburn
High blood pressure (taking two different medications)
A bit of cholesterol
Don’t feel sharp minded (foggy)
Low energy
Weight loss
Joints weakness and pain
Sore, bleeding gums quite regularly in spite of flossing and brushing daily
Having now reached the “magic” 90-days plateau, I want to share MY truth, MY experience and MY results. See for yourself.
Day 90 OBSERVATIONS
40 lbs lighter
No bloating
No more sleep apnea
No more snoring
No more chronic congestion and sinus issues
No more heartburn
No more sensitive and bleeding gums
No more hunger cravings
No more joints pains
Blood pressure down drastically
RESEARCH
The Carnivore Diet, which involves consuming only animal products and excluding all plant-based foods, has gained popularity in recent years. While it’s still a subject of ongoing research, several potential benefits are associated with the diet, some of which are supported by scientific evidence, while others are based on anecdotal reports. Here are the main benefits:
1. Weight Loss
Science-Backed: The Carnivore Diet is naturally very low in carbohydrates, which can lead to weight loss due to reduced insulin levels and water weight loss. Additionally, high-protein diets tend to promote satiety, helping individuals consume fewer calories.
Evidence: Research supports that low-carb, high-protein diets can be effective for weight loss, particularly in the short term.
2. Improved Blood Sugar Control
Science-Backed: Eliminating carbohydrates can lead to better blood sugar control and improved insulin sensitivity, especially in people with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes.
Evidence: Studies on low-carb diets, like ketogenic diets, show improved blood sugar regulation, which can be beneficial for managing type 2 diabetes.
3. Reduced Inflammation
Mixed Evidence: Some proponents of the Carnivore Diet claim it reduces inflammation, possibly due to the elimination of potential food allergens, anti-nutrients found in plants (like lectins and oxalates), and processed foods.
Science: There is some evidence that reducing certain plant compounds can lower inflammation in sensitive individuals, but more research is needed specifically on the Carnivore Diet.
4. Improved Mental Clarity and Mood
Anecdotal: Many people on the Carnivore Diet report better mental clarity, focus, and mood stability. This may be related to more stable blood sugar levels and the absence of inflammatory plant compounds.
Science: While there is some support for improved cognitive function on low-carb diets, robust evidence specific to the Carnivore Diet is lacking.
5. Increased Energy Levels
Anecdotal: Some individuals report higher energy levels on the Carnivore Diet, potentially due to more stable blood glucose levels and the absence of food-related intolerances.
Science: High-protein and high-fat diets can provide a steady source of energy, though individual responses vary.
6. Simplified Eating
Practical Benefit: The diet’s simplicity—eating primarily meat, fish, and other animal products—can make meal planning and preparation easier for some people.
Science: While not a direct health benefit, the simplicity of the diet can reduce decision fatigue and make it easier to stick to a routine.
7. Improved Gut Health for Some
Anecdotal: Some people report improvements in gut health, such as reduced bloating, gas, and digestive discomfort. This could be due to the elimination of fiber, which can be irritating for some individuals with certain gut conditions.
Science: There’s mixed evidence on the role of fiber in gut health. While fiber is beneficial for most, some individuals with conditions like IBS may experience relief on a low-fiber diet. However, long-term effects on gut health are still unclear.
8. Potential for Autoimmune Disease Management
Anecdotal: Some people with autoimmune conditions claim relief from symptoms on the Carnivore Diet, possibly due to the elimination of certain foods that may trigger immune responses.
Science: While some studies suggest that eliminating certain foods can help manage autoimmune conditions, more research is needed specifically on the Carnivore Diet.
9. Potential Muscle Gain and Retention
Science-Backed: High-protein diets can help with muscle gain and retention, especially when combined with resistance training. The Carnivore Diet provides ample protein, which is crucial for muscle health.
Evidence: Studies on high-protein diets consistently show benefits for muscle mass and strength.
10. Reduction in Food Cravings
Anecdotal: Many people on the Carnivore Diet report reduced cravings for sugar and processed foods, likely due to the absence of carbohydrates and highly palatable, processed foods.
Science: Low-carb diets have been shown to reduce cravings for sweets and refined carbohydrates.
Is it for everyone? I don’t know. Again, I’m no medical expert nor have I ever proclaimed to be. I will list some of them later on however. What I do know is that due to the “old school” way of thinking, if you ask most doctors, they will not recommend it. I also know that more progressive nutritionists who have spent more time studying nutrition are seeing the benefits of it. Simply do your research and be smart about it. Mostly though, listen to your body.
Supplements that I take:
2-3 Electrolytes (one first thing in the morning, one around dinner, when hot outside, I take 3): Includes Sodium, Potassium and Magnesium
Vitamins:
A: Vitamin A is vitally important for the functioning of your eyes, heart, lungs, kidneys, and other organs. With a recommended daily intake of 700-900 mcg per day, deficiency in this vitamin can cause health challenges, including challenges with vision. Beef liver can also be a great source of vitamin A.
B3 (Niacin): Helps prevent cholesterol from oxidizing and increase your HDL, therefore you get a better ratio to TRIglycerides levels.
E: You have some options available to you, though, including: Atlantic salmon, goose meat, and rainbow trout. To get to the recommended daily allowance of 15 mg, though, you may want to consider a supplement.
D3 and K2: Vitamin D helps fight disease, supports the immune system, regulates moods and reduces depression symptoms, supports weight loss. The suggested dosage is 15 mcg a day. It can be found in salmon, sardines, tuna, cold, beef liver, egg yolk, yogurt, amongst other places. Vitamin K comprises a family of compounds of similar structure and helps our bodies maintain healthy blood clotting factors and bone health. For those 19 years of age and above, the recommended daily allowance is 90-120 mcg. Consuming dairy products can help with vitamin K levels, and so can eating grass-fed beef and chicken. Nonetheless, a vitamin K supplement might be a good call.
Omega-3: Omega-3 fatty acids help all the cells in your body function as they should. They’re a vital part of your cell membranes, helping to provide structure and supporting interactions between cells. While they’re important to all your cells, omega-3s are concentrated in high levels in cells in your eyes and brain. In addition, omega-3s provide your body with energy (calories) and support the health of many body systems. These include your cardiovascular system and endocrine system.
Multivitamin Men 50+: probably an overkill with the diet and supplements I take
2 cups of black coffee in the morning. Some put butter and/or heavy cream in it, I don’t.
2-3 litres of water a day. It is easy to get dehydrated on Carnivore. Water and electrolytes are essential. Some Carnivores add a pinch of natural, unrefined salt to their water for extra electrolytes.
Himalayan pink salt on pretty much all food. There are other good (unrefined) good salts out there too.
Please look for the following experts on the matter on different social media platforms:
I encourage you to also visit my TikTok account as I have not only documented my journey as a Carnivore, but I have also created a few videos to help you get started, if that’s something you are considering doing.
* Please note that I am getting no renumeration for this blog or any of my social media accounts, including TikTok. These are not click-baits, but simply information about my own personal journey.
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