Jeffrey Salazar
The carnivore diet is a restrictive eating plan that involves consuming only animal products and a few other items. Popular figures like Joe Rogan and Jordan Peterson have endorsed the diet for its weight loss and brain health benefits. However, there is a lack of scientific evidence to confirm the safety of the diet, and it has been criticised for its lack of controlled trials to support its health claims. While some adherents report positive outcomes such as clearer skin, weight loss, and reduced body odour, others have experienced negative side effects, including vitamin and mineral deficiencies, kidney issues, and constipation. There are also concerns about the long-term sustainability of the diet due to its restrictive nature. Although no specific deaths have been attributed to the carnivore diet, health professionals consistently warn about its potential risks, and one social media influencer, Eve Catherine, was hospitalised after developing kidney stones and related health issues from her high-protein, meat-based diet.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Deaths | No direct deaths reported, but a social media influencer was hospitalized due to kidney stones |
| Health Risks | Increased risk of heart disease, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, kidney issues, constipation, headaches, bad breath, high blood pressure, and cancer |
| Criticism | Lack of controlled studies and randomized controlled trials to confirm the safety of the diet and back up health claims |
| Sustainability | Difficult to sustain long-term due to being highly restrictive |
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What You'll Learn
Lack of controlled studies confirming safety
The carnivore diet is a highly restrictive diet that consists of only animal products and a few other items. It is among the latest and most extreme examples of the low-carbohydrate fad, and it has gained popularity due to the influence of social media personalities, authors, and bloggers. While some people claim that the carnivore diet has helped clear their skin, helped them lose weight, and improved their overall health, there is a lack of scientific evidence and controlled studies to confirm the safety of this diet.
The phrase "carnivore diet" did not appear in the title of a scientific paper until 2020, and even then, the author, Amber O'Hearn, lacked scientific research credentials. While O'Hearn's lack of credentials does not necessarily discredit her knowledge or enthusiasm, it does highlight the lack of scientific literature on the subject.
There have been some surveys and studies conducted on the carnivore diet, but the results may not be generalizable to the general population. For example, one survey of over 2000 adults following a carnivore diet found that they experienced few adverse effects and reported health benefits and high satisfaction. However, individuals who experienced adverse effects or lack of health benefits are likely to have abandoned the diet and would not have been captured in this survey. Additionally, the survey participants were recruited from social media communities commonly frequented by carnivore dieters, which may have biased the results.
Another study by two Arctic explorers who consumed a diet containing only meat for one year reported good health and displayed no clinical evidence of vitamin deficiency. However, this study had a small sample size and may not be representative of the general population. Furthermore, the animal-based diets consumed in this study incorporated a variety of lean and fatty meats, including organ meats, which may not be the case for all carnivore dieters.
While there is limited evidence to support the potential benefits of the carnivore diet, there are also concerns about the potential risks and long-term health consequences. For example, diets that are rich in plant-based foods have been associated with a lower risk of certain long-term conditions such as Alzheimer's, heart disease, and Type 2 diabetes. On the other hand, a diet high in red and processed meats has been linked to an increased risk of cancer, including colon and rectal cancer. Additionally, the carnivore diet may lead to vitamin and mineral deficiencies, particularly vitamins A, C, and B12.
In conclusion, while there may be anecdotal evidence and success stories associated with the carnivore diet, there is a lack of controlled studies to confirm its safety. More research is needed to understand the long-term effects of this dietary pattern and to determine if the potential risks outweigh the potential benefits. As with any diet, it is important for individuals to weigh the potential risks and benefits and make informed decisions about their health and wellness.
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Increased risk of heart disease
The carnivore diet is a restrictive eating plan that involves consuming only animal products and a few other items. While some proponents of the diet claim that it has benefits such as clearer skin, fewer migraines, and weight loss, there are concerns about its impact on cardiovascular health and the risk of heart disease.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, and diet plays a significant role in its development. Plant-based diets have been strongly associated with a reduced risk of heart disease, while diets high in animal products have been linked to an increased risk. Research suggests that a diet high in red and processed meat contributes to elevated cholesterol levels, which can lead to the build-up of plaques in blood vessels, restricting blood flow and increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
The carnivore diet's exclusion of plant-based foods may result in vitamin and mineral deficiencies, particularly vitamins A, C, and B12, which are essential for optimal wellness. Additionally, the high consumption of animal protein can place stress on the kidneys and has been linked to an increased risk of certain cancers.
While some studies suggest that low-carbohydrate diets may help manage insulin resistance and inflammation, which are root causes of heart disease, the exclusion of carbohydrates and the high saturated fat content of the carnivore diet may have negative consequences. Saturated fats can increase LDL cholesterol levels, which is a known risk factor for heart disease. A systematic review of 7,446 studies found links between both processed and unprocessed red meat consumption and a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, with stronger associations in Western populations.
Despite these concerns, some people following the carnivore diet report minimal negative effects and claim various health improvements. However, there is a lack of controlled studies and long-term data to confirm the safety of the diet, and it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before making any drastic dietary changes.
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High blood pressure
Some people believe that the carnivore diet may lead to high blood pressure due to the high intake of red meat and lack of carbohydrates. Red meat is high in saturated fat, which can lead to cholesterol buildup in the arteries, resulting in high cholesterol numbers and hypertension. However, there is also evidence that a low-carb diet is the best way to avoid heart disease. A low-carb diet can lower insulin levels, which are related to high blood pressure, and reduce systemic inflammation, which is a major factor in high blood pressure.
Some people have reported that their blood pressure decreased after starting the carnivore diet. One person's blood pressure went from 140/90 to 115/75 within six months of starting the diet. Another person's blood pressure went from 145/98 to 115/65 in 18 months, and they were able to stop taking blood pressure medication.
On the other hand, some people have concerns about the potential impact of the carnivore diet on blood pressure. One person shared that their blood pressure went up after starting the diet, but they had hypotension before. Another person expressed worry about the amount of red meat in the diet and its potential impact on blood pressure.
Overall, while there may be mixed experiences and opinions regarding the carnivore diet and high blood pressure, it is important to note that diet is just one factor that can affect blood pressure. Physical activity, weight, genetics, and stress levels can also influence blood pressure levels.
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Kidney issues
The carnivore diet is a high-fat, low-carb, moderate-protein diet that involves eating only animal-based foods. It includes meat, poultry, eggs, seafood, fish, and some dairy products, while excluding all plant-based foods such as vegetables, fruits, grains, legumes, seeds, and nuts.
One of the main concerns regarding the carnivore diet is its potential impact on kidney health. The kidneys are responsible for filtering out waste products from the blood, regulating electrolytes, and maintaining proper fluid levels. They also play a crucial role in filtering out the byproducts of protein metabolism, such as urea and ammonia.
The concern that the carnivore diet may harm the kidneys stems from the belief that high protein intake can lead to "hyperfiltration," putting a strain on the kidneys and potentially causing damage. However, studies have shown that while increased protein intake does require the kidneys to filter more nitrogen, there is no evidence that this harms healthy kidneys. On the contrary, the carnivore diet may even reduce the risk factors for developing kidney disease by addressing issues such as metabolic syndrome and type-II diabetes.
For individuals with healthy kidneys, the increased protein metabolism and filtration associated with the carnivore diet appear to be a normal, adaptive, and harmless response. However, those with pre-existing kidney conditions or a family history of kidney problems may need to be more cautious. The carnivore diet has been linked to an increased risk of kidney stones, especially with prolonged adherence. Additionally, individuals with chronic kidney disease or a higher susceptibility to kidney stones may need to avoid this diet altogether.
To ensure kidney health while on the carnivore diet, it is recommended to stay hydrated, vary protein sources, and monitor sodium intake. Regular blood tests and kidney screenings can also help identify potential issues early on, such as elevated creatinine or urea levels that may indicate kidney stress. While the carnivore diet may not directly cause kidney issues in healthy individuals, it is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant dietary changes.
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Vitamin and mineral deficiencies
Although there is no evidence of anyone dying from the carnivore diet, the diet has been criticized for its lack of controlled studies to confirm its safety. The carnivore diet is a highly restrictive diet that recommends the consumption of only animal products and a few other items. This exclusion of plant-based nutrients can lead to vitamin and mineral deficiencies, which can have negative health consequences.
Vitamin deficiencies that may occur on the carnivore diet include vitamins A, C, and B12. Vitamin A is important for the function of the eyes, heart, lungs, and kidneys, and a deficiency can cause night blindness. While vitamin A can be obtained from organ meats like liver, kidney, and sweetbreads, it is still difficult to meet the daily recommended intake of 700-900 mcg per day from meat alone.
Vitamin C is another essential vitamin that is challenging to obtain on a carnivore diet. Our bodies cannot produce Vitamin C, yet it is crucial for making certain hormones and collagen. The recommended daily intake of vitamin C for an adult is 75-90 mg, but most meat sources contain very little vitamin C. Even with the inclusion of organ meats, it is difficult to obtain enough vitamin C on a carnivore diet, and supplementation may be necessary. Multiple cases of people developing scurvy, a disease caused by vitamin C deficiency, have been reported among those following a carnivore diet.
In terms of vitamin B deficiencies, the carnivore diet may be insufficient in thiamin (vitamin B1). Thiamin is important for carbohydrate metabolism, and inadequate intake can lead to the development of rare diseases such as beri beri and Wernicke's encephalopathy. On the other hand, the carnivore diet typically provides sufficient amounts of riboflavin, niacin, and vitamin B6.
Mineral deficiencies that may occur on the carnivore diet include calcium, magnesium, and potassium. These minerals are typically obtained from plant-based sources, and their intake may be below the recommended levels on a carnivore diet. Supplementation with mineral electrolytes is a common practice among those following the carnivore diet to address these inadequacies.
Overall, while the carnivore diet may offer benefits for managing certain chronic conditions, it is important to be aware of the potential risks of vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Tailored nutritional guidance and supplementation strategies may be necessary to prevent deficiencies and maintain optimal health.
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Frequently asked questions
There is no evidence of anyone dying from following the carnivore diet. However, it has gained criticism from health professionals for its potential risks, including kidney stone formation and an increased risk of heart disease.
The carnivore diet is a restrictive diet that advises the consumption of only animal products. This can lead to vitamin and mineral deficiencies, especially vitamins A, C, and B12. The high consumption of red and processed meat can also lead to an increased risk of cancer and heart disease. The diet is also associated with negative side effects such as constipation, headaches, and bad breath, and diarrhea.
The carnivore diet is controversial due to a lack of controlled studies and randomized controlled trials to back up the health claims made by its followers. The diet is also criticized for being unsustainable in the long term due to its restrictive nature.
