Pros and Cons of the Controversial Carnivore Diet
Considering the Carnivore Diet? When I first heard about people exclusively eating animal products, I thought they were a bit out there. After experimenting with various elimination diets to alleviate my chronic health struggles, the carnivore diet for histamine intolerance, autoimmunity, and mast cell activation caught my attention.
I had tried the carnivore diet once and quit after only 4 days. But, last year, my husband’s interest in the carnivore diet for weight loss sparked my curiosity once again.
With success stories from my own family, and countless testimonials from those in the mast cell activation and histamine intolerance community, and the autoimmune community, I set aside skepticism and committed to 90 days of a carnivore diet experiment.
In this article, I’ll share the highs and lows of the carnivore diet from my personal experience.
Disclaimer: I want to make it clear that I’m not here to advocate for or criticize any particular diet. Instead, I’m opening up about my own journey and viewpoint as someone with chronic health issues. Throughout my struggles, I’ve experimented with various dietary modifications in an attempt to find relief. It’s important to note that nothing I say in this article, or anywhere on this website, should be construed as medical or dietary advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
What is the carnivore diet?
The basis of the carnivore diet is eating primarily animal products, and eliminating all fruits, vegetables, and processed foods. There are varying recommendations of what foods are permitted and the level of restriction.
The version of carnivore that I tried is what I call “Dirty Carnivore.” This is a less strict version of carnivore that can make transitioning to the carnivore diet a little less painful. Those with autoimmune and mast cell issues may wish to eliminate additional foods and seasonings after the adjustment period. There are some concerns with “oxalate dumping” if you jump right in to eating only meats and animal fats. I believe that I may have experienced this during my first try.
What can you eat on the carnivore diet?
While opinions on “allowed” foods differ, common carnivore diet options include beef, venison, lamb, chicken, turkey, pork, bacon, ham, eggs, seafood, dairy, broth, and organ meats. In addition, many include other animal products such as dairy and honey.
Many who eat a carnivore diet for weight loss or metabolic health eat a less restrictive version of carnivore than those who come to this approach for autoimmunity and inflammatory or mast cell conditions.
Herbs and Spices on the Carnivore Diet
The use of herbs and spices depends on your goals. For weight loss, small amounts likely won’t hinder results. However, for healing purposes, being selective may be beneficial.
When I tried the carnivore diet, I ate what I call “Dirty Carnivore” and in hindsight, because of my health struggles, I may have been better suited to to eat a more strict version of carnivore such as the lion diet. The most strict version of the carnivore diet is Lion diet and the only permitted foods are red meat and salt.
The “dirty carnivore” version allows for liberal use of seasoning and is better suited for those seeking weight loss rather than healing, although it can be a great place to start for newbies.
Carnivore Diet for Autoimmunity and Histamine Intolerance
If symptoms persist on “dirty carnivore,” sensitivity to certain foods may be the culprit. Many experts recommend eliminating spices, herbs, dairy, and eggs for at least 30 days for those with autoimmune or mast cell conditions.
If this feels too restrictive (it did for me) start where you are comfortable. It’s okay to ease into it and find what works for you. Many people experience great results without eliminating these additional foods.
Pros of the Carnivore Diet
- Protein intake
- Nutrient density
- Potential for weight loss if needed
- Elimination of anti-nutrients and common food sensitivities
- Increased energy and mental clarity
- Simplified meal preparation (Read my additional pros list HERE)
- Clear guidelines, no complex food lists or label reading
- Reduced cravings
Cons of the Carnivore Diet
- Potential for undesired weight loss
- Social restrictions
- Doctor disapproval
- Controversial and perceived health risks
- Difficulty in adherence
- Adjustment period may be challenging
Expert Opinions on the Carnivore Diet
Criticism abounds for the carnivore diet, with concerns about its health implications. Like many elimination type diets, when cutting out whole food groups, particularly foods that are generally considered “healthy,” it’s no surprise that the carnivore diet has been highly criticized as not only unhealthy, but dangerous.
Yet, in online support groups and communities, positive experiences are prevalent. Figures like Jordan and Mikahla Peterson (who coined the term “lion diet”) are examples of carnivore success stories.
Some physicians such Dr. Ken Barry, Dr Paul Saladino, Dr. Shawn Baker, and Dr, Anthony Chaffe, to name a few, advocate for its benefits.
My mother’s physician was horrified when she told him of her plan to try the carnivore diet, but he agreed to monitor her more closely during her experiment. He has been impressed with the improvements in her health, she has now been in great health for the past 2 years on a “Dirty Carnivore” diet, and she seems to be aging backwards.
My experience was not so positive, although I admit that “dirty carnivore” was probably not the best route for my personal situation. In hindsight, there are things that I should have done differently. It may be an experiment for the future, but for now I will stick with my anti-inflammatory low histamine protocol.
Conclusion
The carnivore diet remains extremely controversial, drawing both support and opposition from medical professionals. In my non-professional opinion, gleaned from two attempts and quits, I recommend conducting your own research and listening to your body. Trust in government and medical institutions has waned, making individual exploration essential.
I am willing to give the carnivore another try in the future.
For an in-depth look at my carnivore diet experience and reasons for quitting, read my article HERE.