The carnivore diet has gained significant attention in recent years, with proponents claiming it offers numerous health benefits, from weight loss to improved mental clarity. Rooted in the principle of eliminating plant-based foods and consuming only animal products, this diet challenges conventional nutrition advice. But what exactly are the benefits of the carnivore diet, and is it a sustainable choice for long-term health? Follow along to hear about mine and my husband’s experience with this diet thus far.
1. Simple and Elimination-Based Nutrition
One of the main advantages of the carnivore diet is its simplicity. Unlike other diets that require calorie counting or macro tracking, the carnivore diet revolves around a single rule—eat only animal-based foods. This naturally eliminates processed foods, added sugars, seed oils, and common allergens like gluten and lectins, which may contribute to inflammation and digestive distress. It is extremely easy to follow, and very black and white. Do the ingredients come from an animal? If no, it is off limits! This has helped us at gatherings, restaurants, work, etc. to easily determine if we should eat something or not. If we know there is a possibility we will not be able to have a certain meal, we pack our own food!
2. Potential Weight Loss
Many people turn to the carnivore diet for weight loss, and for good reason. Since animal-based foods are high in protein and fat, they provide satiety and reduce hunger cravings. Protein also has a high thermic effect, meaning the body burns more calories digesting it compared to fats and carbohydrates. Additionally, the absence of refined carbohydrates helps regulate insulin levels, preventing energy crashes and excess fat storage. After a 30 day trial with this diet, my husband (who has about 20 pounds total to lose to be at optimal weight) lost 15 pounds. I (who also have about 20 pounds total to lose to be at optimal weight) lost 11 pounds. We didn’t count calories, and we didn’t limit dairy. Going into the next 30 days I started counting calories and made sure I was in a decent sized deficit, and I lost about 2-3 pounds per week going forward until I hit maintenance.
3. Improved Digestion and Gut Health
Despite common concerns about fiber intake, many carnivore diet followers report improved digestion and relief from gastrointestinal issues like bloating, gas, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Some experts suggest that removing plant-based anti-nutrients, such as oxalates and lectins, may help those with sensitive digestive systems feel better. I kid you not, the bloat that constantly felt like it just lingered, was totally gone within 3 days of starting the diet. You aren’t filling up on a bunch of crap, so your body can easily digest and process these foods faster and more effectively. This was my favorite part. Even without dramatic weight loss at the beginning, my pants already fit better due to the lack of bloat!
4. Reduced Inflammation
Chronic inflammation is linked to various health conditions, including autoimmune diseases, arthritis, and heart disease. Since the carnivore diet eliminates many inflammatory foods like refined sugars, seed oils, and processed grains, many individuals experience reduced joint pain, better skin health, and overall decreased inflammation markers. This result was directly visible in our faces!
5. Mental Clarity and Stable Energy Levels
Many people report enhanced cognitive function, reduced brain fog, and improved mood on the carnivore diet. The brain thrives on ketones, which are produced when the body shifts into a fat-burning state. By eliminating blood sugar fluctuations caused by carbohydrate-heavy meals, the carnivore diet may contribute to more stable energy levels and better mental focus throughout the day. I am a working mom of 2 who works out 4-5 times a week and I feel like I am always doing the most while being on the go. I get mentally and physically exhausted when I get home from work sometimes and want to sit on the couch like a potato and do nothing. While on this diet, I have increased energy to be able to get up earlier and work out, which then boosts my energy for the work day. Then by the time I get home, I have more energy for my kids, we go on more walks, and I am excited to make dinner everyday vs. feeling exhausted and “not up for it”. This has been such an important impact for me!
6. Hormonal Balance and Metabolic Health
A diet high in quality animal proteins and healthy fats supports hormone production, including testosterone, estrogen, and thyroid hormones. For individuals dealing with metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes, the carnivore diet may help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. I haven’t had a ton of issue with this in the past, but I definitely feel like a million bucks while on this diet.
Is the Carnivore Diet for You?
While the carnivore diet has compelling benefits, it may not be suitable for everyone. Some individuals thrive on an animal-based diet, while others may require more dietary variety for optimal health. If you’re considering trying it, it’s important to listen to your body, consult with a healthcare professional, and monitor your progress.
At the end of the day, nutrition is highly individualized, and the best diet is the one that helps you feel and perform at your best. Whether you’re looking for weight loss, better digestion, or mental clarity, the carnivore diet may be worth exploring as part of your personal health journey.
My biggest advice would be – if you are going to try it, commit to a period of time and FULLY COMMIT. Do it exactly as the experts tell you too so that you actually experience results. Then by the end, you will likely WANT to do it for longer because you will feel so good! Then you can choose to make modifications. Modifying too early will defeat the purpose of the diet. SO – be strict and disciplined, don’t give in to peer pressure, enjoy the wonderful foods the circle of life provides for us, hydrate, and congratulations to you for caring about your health!
Have you tried the carnivore diet? Share your experiences in the comments!
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