Carnivore Diet: Pros and Cons
The carnivore diet is pretty simple – you only eat meat and animal products. It's become popular with people who want to return to our natural, ancestral way of eating and believe it has tons of health benefits. But like any diet, there are both positives and negatives to consider.
Pros of the Carnivore Diet
Weight loss: Because it's high in protein and low in carbs, the carnivore diet can help you shed pounds very quickly. In fact, you can even expect to lose around 7kg (15.4 pounds) in 30 days! Protein-rich foods like meat, eggs, and some dairy products keep you feeling full, so you may naturally eat less.
Less inflammation: Some people say they feel less sore and achy after switching to a carnivore diet, especially if they have autoimmune conditions. This could be because the diet cuts out nuts and grains, which are usually the culprits that cause inflammation.
Clearer thinking: You'll likely feel sharper and more focused mentally once you start following the carnivore diet. The reason is that a high-protein, low-carb diet causes less fluctuations in your blood sugar levels in the day and keeps your energy levels stable.
Easy meal planning: A lot of people spend hours of their precious time thinking about what to make for their next meal. Well, not anymore! The carnivore diet focuses on a few food groups, so planning and cooking gets way easier. It makes it easier to stick to the diet too!
Improved digestion: Because you cut out a lot of plant-based foods that can cause bloating and upset stomachs, you might find you have fewer digestive issues on this diet.
Cons of the Carnivore Diet
Missing out on nutrients: Fruits, veggies, and other plants have vitamins, minerals, and fiber that your body needs to work its best. Without them, you could end up with health problems down the road.
Risks to your heart: Eating lots of meat means lots of saturated fat, which can clog up your heart over time. It's always smart to get your cholesterol checked and have a chat with your doctor before starting a diet like this.
Hard to stay consistent: Let's be real, eating only meat can get boring. It makes going out to eat tough and might leave you feeling a bit isolated. This kind of diet can be hard to stick to.
Can be expensive: Meat isn't exactly cheap, especially if it's all you're eating. That can add up quickly and make it difficult to stay within a budget! Some personal reports suggest that you can expect to spend at least $120+ per week on the carnivore diet.
The carnivore diet does have its perks but be sure to weigh the risks carefully. It's a good idea to talk to a doctor or dietician to see if this diet is a safe choice for you. And remember, the research on this diet is still ongoing and although there are a lot more positive signs, it's important to be aware of the potential dangers too.
