What can you eat on a carnivore diet? - Chef's Resource (2024)

The carnivore diet is a type of diet that primarily focuses on consuming animal products while eliminating all plant-based foods. It has gained popularity in recent years as an extreme version of the low-carb, high-fat ketogenic diet. The main idea behind this diet is to rely solely on animal products for obtaining all essential nutrients and promoting weight loss. Let’s delve into exactly what you can eat on a carnivore diet.

Contents

What can you eat on a carnivore diet?

On a carnivore diet, you can consume an array of animal-based products. The key is to focus on consuming high-quality, nutrient-dense foods:

1. Meat: This includes beef, pork, lamb, venison, bison, and any other type of red or white meat.

2. Poultry: Chicken, turkey, duck, and other fowl make excellent protein sources on a carnivore diet.

3. Fish and seafood: Enjoy a variety of fish and shellfish, such as salmon, mackerel, shrimp, crab, and lobster, which provide Omega-3 fatty acids and other essential nutrients.

4. Organ meats: Liver, kidney, heart, and other organ meats contain a wide range of vitamins and minerals, including iron and vitamin A.

5. Eggs: A highly versatile food, eggs offer an abundant source of both protein and fats.

It is crucial to prioritize the consumption of high-quality, grass-fed or pasture-raised animal products, as they tend to have more favorable nutrient profiles compared to conventionally raised counterparts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the carnivore diet healthy?

The carnivore diet can provide adequate protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. However, it lacks the variety of nutrients that come from plant-based foods and may not be suitable for everyone in the long run.

2. Can I consume dairy on a carnivore diet?

While dairy products such as cheese, butter, and heavy cream are considered low-carb and high-fat, they are not strict components of the carnivore diet. Some individuals choose to include them, while others eliminate them entirely.

3. Are condiments allowed on the carnivore diet?

The carnivore diet typically excludes most condiments due to their plant-based ingredients. However, some individuals may opt for animal-based condiments like bone broth, lard, or tallow.

4. Can I drink coffee or tea while on the carnivore diet?

Both coffee and tea are generally low in carbohydrates, making them suitable for a carnivore diet. However, some individuals may choose to avoid these beverages due to their potential side effects, such as increased heart rate or sleep disturbances.

5. Is it necessary to supplement on a carnivore diet?

While the carnivore diet can provide essential nutrients, some individuals may benefit from certain supplements like electrolytes, omega-3 fatty acids, or vitamin D. Consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended to determine individual needs.

6. What about fiber on a carnivore diet?

Fiber is mainly found in plant-based foods, so a carnivore diet is naturally low in fiber. While some might experience changes in bowel movements, many individuals report no negative effects on digestion.

7. Can I follow a carnivore diet as a vegetarian?

Due to its heavy reliance on animal products, it is not possible to follow a carnivore diet while still adhering to vegetarian principles.

8. How long should I follow the carnivore diet?

The length of time one should follow a carnivore diet varies from person to person. Some individuals find success in short-term stints, while others adopt it as a long-term lifestyle. Regular blood work and consultation with a healthcare professional can help monitor progress.

9. Will I lose weight on a carnivore diet?

Many people experience weight loss on a carnivore diet due to its low carbohydrate content, which can promote fat burning. However, individual results may vary.

10. Are cheat meals allowed on a carnivore diet?

Cheat meals, which typically include indulgent foods outside the carnivore guidelines, are not recommended. They can potentially disrupt the desired metabolic state and make it more challenging to maintain the diet.

11. Can a carnivore diet help with certain health conditions?

Some individuals have reported improvements in conditions such as autoimmune disorders, inflammation, and digestive issues when following a carnivore diet. However, more research is needed to fully understand its effects on specific health conditions.

12. Is the carnivore diet suitable for athletes or those with high activity levels?

Athletes and those with high activity levels may require more carbohydrates for optimal performance and recovery. The carnivore diet may not provide enough fuel for intense exercise and could hinder athletic performance.

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What can you eat on a carnivore diet? - Chef's Resource (2024)

FAQs

What are all the foods you can eat on the carnivore diet? ›

Following the diet involves eliminating all plant foods from your diet and exclusively eating meat, fish, eggs, and small amounts of low-lactose dairy products. Foods to eat include beef, chicken, pork, lamb, turkey, organ meats, salmon, sardines, white fish, and small amounts of heavy cream and hard cheese.

What is Joe Rogan's carnivore diet? ›

Joe Rogan's daily intake, while on the Carnivore Diet, primarily consisted of meat. He often mentioned consuming elk, bison, and other game meats, along with more traditional meats like beef. Organ meats, particularly liver, were also a part of his diet.

What sides can you eat on a carnivore diet? ›

Seafood Sides Like Shrimp, Oysters, Clams, and More

They can be served raw with a squeeze of lemon for flavor. Clams are one of our favorite carnivore diet sides too. We love them steamed and served in their own juice, as this can provide a briny taste of the sea that pairs wonderfully with meaty main dishes.

What is the 80 20 carnivore diet? ›

Some carnivore enthusiasts even go for an 80/20 carnivore diet. This means 80% fat and 20% protein — no carbs at all. This fat-to-protein ratio carnivore diet is typically for experienced people on a carnivore diet.

What cheese can you eat on a carnivore diet? ›

The Best Cheese for Carnivore Diet List: Cottage Cheese, Goat Cheese, Cream Cheese, and More. Cheese, with its vast variety, can be a great way to add flavor and nutrition to your carnivore diet.

What vegetables can you eat on a carnivore diet? ›

While strict carnivores eat ZERO fruits and vegetables, non-sweet fruits like avocados (a fat we love!) and cucumbers are usually considered permissible on more relaxed carnivore plans. Some dieters include fruits and vegetables to aid digestion.

Is bacon ok for a carnivore diet? ›

Beef, butter, bacon and eggs — that's what some influencers swear by for the "carnivore diet." The diet beefs up on meat and minimizes or cuts out fruit and vegetables entirely.

Can you have coffee on a carnivore diet? ›

Yes, you can drink coffee on a carnivore diet. Despite its plant origin, many followers of the carnivore diet still consume coffee, considering caffeine's stimulating properties. However, caution must be taken as excessive intake of caffeine may add stress to the body's metabolism and disrupt sleep patterns.

Can I eat bananas on a carnivore diet? ›

Although less restrictive versions of the carnivore diet exist, the following foods are usually restricted or completely avoided by those following this eating pattern: Fruit: Berries, apples, grapes, bananas, avocados, and peaches. Vegetables: Potatoes, zucchini, broccoli, asparagus, and greens.

What is the best food to eat on a carnivore diet? ›

What can I eat on the carnivore diet?
  • Red meats, including beef, lamb, pork and venison.
  • Offal, such as liver and kidney.
  • Fish.
  • Eggs.
  • Bone marrow.
  • Lard, dripping, butter and ghee.
  • Some followers also choose to include milk, yogurt and cheese (low lactose)
Aug 16, 2023

What is the healthiest carnivore diet? ›

On the carnivore diet, look for sources like grass-fed beef, free-range chicken, or wild-caught fish to get these important macronutrients. Additionally, don't forget to incorporate some healthy fats such as olive oil, avocado oil, eggs, fatty fish, nut butters, and ghee into your meals.

What is the carnivore diet for beginners? ›

This kind of diet usually calls for grass-fed, pasture-raised meats and wild-caught seafood. Most carnivore dieters fill their cart with “nose-to-tail” cuts of meat and fish, which can include organ meats as well as oft-overlooked parts of the animal ranging from fish eyes to bone marrow.

Do you still poop on carnivore diet? ›

It may sometimes cause constipation. The diet is contrary to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans , which emphasize the importance of fiber for good health. Some may worry about becoming constipated due to this diet's lack of fiber.

How many steaks a day on carnivore diet? ›

The quantities of meat recommended on a carnivore diet range considerably. An individual typically requires between 1-2 pounds of meat per day, though this will vary based on age, sex, weight, and activity level.

How many pounds can you lose on carnivore diet in 30 days? ›

But personal reports show that Carnivores could lose 7kg (15.4 pounds) in 30 days, 121 lbs in 12 months, and so on. Generally, aiming to lose between 0.5 – 0.75% of your starting body weight can be realistic.

Can I have avocado on a carnivore diet? ›

Often mistaken as a vegetable, avocados are indeed a fruit and a fantastic choice for the carnivore diet. High in healthy fats, fiber, and various essential nutrients, they can complement your meals without disturbing your macronutrient balance significantly.

Can I have coffee on a carnivore diet? ›

Yes, you can drink coffee on a carnivore diet. Despite its plant origin, many followers of the carnivore diet still consume coffee, considering caffeine's stimulating properties. However, caution must be taken as excessive intake of caffeine may add stress to the body's metabolism and disrupt sleep patterns.

How do you fill up on the carnivore diet? ›

Your main calorie source should come from fatty cuts of grass-fed meat like NY strip steak, porterhouse, ribeye, 80/20 ground beef, t-bone, bacon, pork chops, and flank steak. Since you're restricting carbohydrates, meats with more fat content are preferred so your body can use those fats as a source of energy.

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