Madeleine Hull
The carnivore diet is a restrictive diet that consists primarily of meat, with some practitioners also including seafood, eggs, and dairy. The diet is based on the belief that our ancestors thrived on a meat-centric diet and that modern health issues stem from the introduction of plant-based foods. While strict carnivores consume only animal products, some practitioners include small amounts of herbs and spices to enhance the flavour of their meals. However, there is ongoing debate within the community about the inclusion of plant-based ingredients, with some arguing that herbs and spices contain toxins, heavy metals, and antinutrients that can be harmful to health. Ultimately, the decision to include herbs and spices in the carnivore diet depends on individual preferences and goals, with some finding that small amounts of plant-based seasonings help them adhere to the diet long-term.
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What You'll Learn
The pros of adding herbs to the carnivore diet
The carnivore diet is a restrictive, meat-based diet that eliminates plant-based foods, including vegetables, fruits, and grains. While some strict carnivore diet followers refrain from using any herbs and spices due to their plant-based origins, others find that incorporating small amounts of these seasonings enhances their overall experience. Here are some pros of adding herbs to the carnivore diet:
Improved Taste and Sustainability
Herbs and spices can make meals more enjoyable and flavourful, increasing the likelihood of adhering to the diet long-term. The carnivore diet, with its focus on meat, seafood, and eggs, can become monotonous, and herbs can add variety.
Nutritional Benefits
Salt, a common seasoning, is crucial for carnivores as it supports various bodily functions. With the elimination of carbs, the body excretes more sodium, making salt essential. Additionally, black pepper, another permissible seasoning, offers improved digestive health, cancer prevention, and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Minimal Impact on Metabolism
The small quantities of herbs and spices used for seasoning have a negligible impact on metabolism. For example, a teaspoon of dried oregano contains less than 1 gram of carbohydrates, which, when spread across an entire meal, becomes insignificant.
Health Benefits of Specific Herbs
Certain herbs like basil, dill, and garlic are considered beneficial additions to the carnivore diet. These herbs can provide flavour without exposing the body to harmful plant chemicals or anti-nutrients that bind to nutrients in the meat.
While the carnivore diet has its enthusiasts, it is important to note that it can lead to health issues such as kidney trouble, digestive problems, and increased LDL levels associated with heart disease. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a dietitian before starting this or any other restrictive diet.
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The cons of adding herbs to the carnivore diet
The carnivore diet is a restrictive diet that focuses on consuming animal-based foods, primarily meat, and eliminating plant-based foods. While some practitioners of the diet allow for small amounts of herbs and spices, others adhere to a stricter interpretation that excludes all plant matter, including herbs and spices. Here are some cons of adding herbs to the carnivore diet:
Contamination and Toxins: Herbs and spices may be contaminated with toxins and heavy metals during the production process. Modern life already exposes individuals to heavy metals through food, air, and water, and the body can become overwhelmed by relentless exposure. Adding herbs and spices, particularly in dried and powdered forms, may increase the risk of ingesting harmful substances.
Anti-nutrients: Herbs and spices can contain high amounts of anti-nutrients, such as oxalates, which can interfere with the absorption of nutrients from meat. When combined with heavy metals, oxalates can be especially problematic, leading to potential health issues.
Inflammatory Response: The carnivore diet emphasizes the elimination of plant foods that contain inflammatory plant toxins. Herbs and spices, being plant-based, may introduce these inflammatory compounds back into the diet, potentially triggering digestive issues and inflammatory responses.
Compromising the Integrity of the Diet: The carnivore diet, at its core, is about simplicity and consuming only animal products. Adding herbs and spices as exceptions to the strict elimination of plant-based foods may compromise the integrity of the diet and its intended benefits. Some strict carnivore purists argue that any plant-based additions should be avoided to maintain the purity of the diet.
Individual Variations: The carnivore diet is highly individualized, and different practitioners may have varying interpretations and restrictions. Some practitioners may choose to exclude all herbs and spices to maintain a consistent and strict approach to the diet, believing that even minimal amounts of plant matter can impact their physiology and digestion.
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The best herbs to add to the carnivore diet
The carnivore diet is a trending eating plan that focuses on meat, seafood, eggs, and sometimes dairy. It is similar to the keto diet in that it is very low in carbohydrates, with calories coming almost exclusively from protein and fat. While some purists advocate for a meat-only approach, others adopt a more relaxed version of the diet, which can include herbs and spices.
It is important to note that the carnivore diet is not a one-size-fits-all plan, and individuals should adapt it according to their personal goals, preferences, and physical reactions. Some people may find that adding herbs and spices helps them stay on the diet, while others may choose to avoid these ingredients due to potential contaminants and antinutrients.
If you decide to include herbs and spices in your carnivore diet, here are some tips to minimize potential risks:
- Avoid dried and powdered spices, opting for fresh herbs like oregano, cilantro, curry leaves, thyme, and dill instead.
- Be cautious when purchasing spices in bulk, as they may contain higher levels of contaminants.
- Be mindful of the potential for heavy metals, insect parts, and other contaminants in spices and herbs, especially when buying overseas or online.
Some of the least inflammatory herbs and spices to consider include:
- Garlic
- Cayenne
- Paprika
- Cilantro
- Oregano
- Thyme
- Dill
Remember, the key to the carnivore diet is eliminating plant foods that contain inflammatory plant toxins and antinutrients. If you feel that you need to include herbs and spices for flavor, it is important to be mindful of the potential risks and choose fresh, low-antinutrient options.
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The worst herbs to add to the carnivore diet
The carnivore diet is a popular trend, especially on TikTok, that involves eating only meat, seafood, eggs, and sometimes dairy. It is a type of ancestral diet, and some people use it as a "reset" or temporary elimination diet to address certain health issues. While some people choose to include herbs and spices in their carnivore diet, others opt for a "strict carnivore" or "lion diet" that eliminates all plant matter, including herbs and spices.
It is important to note that the carnivore diet is not backed by scientific evidence, and eliminating entire food groups can lead to nutritional deficiencies. Additionally, the consumption of herbs and spices on the carnivore diet is controversial due to the presence of antinutrients and toxins in these plant-based ingredients. However, some people find that adding herbs and spices helps them stay on the diet and makes their meals more enjoyable.
Turmeric and Cinnamon: These herbs are listed as high-oxalate spices. When combined with heavy metals, oxalates can contribute to kidney stone formation and make it difficult to eliminate metals from the body.
Garlic: While garlic has antimicrobial properties and may support heart health, it should be used in moderation. Excessive garlic consumption may cause bad breath, body odour, heartburn, and gastrointestinal issues.
Dried and Powdered Spices: It is recommended to avoid dried and powdered spices, as they may be more likely to contain contaminants and antinutrients. Instead, opt for fresh herbs like oregano, cilantro, curry leaves, thyme, and dill.
Bulk Spices: Spices bought in bulk may pose a higher risk of containing toxins such as lead, arsenic, and cadmium. It is suggested to avoid buying spices in bulk or when travelling overseas.
Ultimately, the decision to include or avoid herbs and spices in the carnivore diet depends on individual preferences and goals. Some people may find that a strict carnivore diet works best for them, while others may prefer to include small amounts of herbs and spices for flavour and variety. It is always important to listen to your body and consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant dietary changes.
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Alternatives to herbs on the carnivore diet
The carnivore diet is a type of primal and ancestral diet that consists of eating only animal products, primarily meat, fish, and eggs. Some people also include dairy products, such as milk and butter, in their diet. While the carnivore diet is primarily meat-based, some people may find it challenging to consume only meat. Here are some alternatives to herbs for those who want to add flavour to their meals without compromising the core principles of the carnivore diet:
Salt
Salt is a crucial mineral that supports various bodily functions and enhances the flavour of food. When following a low-carb diet, the body excretes more sodium, making salt supplementation essential.
Butter
Butter is another animal-based fat that can be used to enhance the flavour of meat. It can be added to meat dishes or used as a dipping sauce for burgers.
Animal Fats
Strict carnivore diets only allow animal fats like tallow and lard. Adding supplemental fat in the form of avocado oil or extra virgin olive oil is also acceptable for those following a more relaxed version of the diet.
Fresh Herbs
Although technically not carnivore food, some people choose to include small amounts of herbs in their diet. If you decide to use herbs, it is recommended to choose fresh herbs over dried and powdered spices. Fresh oregano, cilantro, curry leaves, thyme, and dill are some options to consider.
Bone Broth
Bone broth is a savoury liquid made from boiling the bones of meat, fish, or poultry. It is a popular beverage among those following the carnivore diet and can add flavour to meals.
It is important to note that the carnivore diet does not have a set of strict rules, and individuals can adjust it based on their preferences and goals. Some people may choose to exclude all plant matter, including herbs and spices, while others may include small amounts without compromising the benefits of the diet. Ultimately, the decision to include or exclude herbs and spices in the carnivore diet is a personal choice, and it is essential to pay attention to how your body responds to different foods.
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Frequently asked questions
The carnivore diet is an eating plan that consists of meat, seafood, eggs, and sometimes dairy. It is a very low-carbohydrate diet, with calories coming almost exclusively from protein and fat.
The carnivore diet is meant to be an overwhelmingly positive experience, so it is flexible and can be modified according to individual goals and preferences. While strict carnivores avoid herbs, many practitioners include them in small amounts to enhance their overall experience and make the transition more enjoyable and sustainable.
Some herbs that can be used in small quantities include garlic, basil, dill, tarragon, parsley, cilantro, and mustard. Salt and pepper are also permissible but should be consumed in moderation.
Some known risks of the carnivore diet include kidney trouble, digestive issues due to the large amounts of meat and lack of fiber, and increased LDL levels associated with heart disease. It is always a good idea to consult a dietitian and get blood work done before beginning the diet to check for potential health risks.
