What is a carnivorous diet - nutrition carnivore

The carnivorous diet is a strict dietary approach based solely on the consumption of animal products to the complete exclusion of plant-based foods. In recent years it has gained popularity, especially for the benefits attributed to weight loss and improvements in health.

What is the Carnivorous Diet?

The carnivore diet consists of eating only foods of animal origin. This includes red meats such as beef and pork, poultry, fish, seafood, high-fat dairy products and eggs. Unlike other low-carbohydrate diets such as the ketogenic diet, the carnivore diet completely eliminates vegetables, fruits, grains, legumes and seeds.

Foods Allowed on the Carnivore Diet

Foods that can be consumed on the carnivorous diet include:

• Red Meat: Beef, pork, lamb and game meats.
• Poultry: Chicken, turkey and duck.
• Fish and Seafood: Salmon, tuna, shrimp, crab, among others.
• Organs: Liver, kidneys, bone marrow and heart.
• Eggs: Chicken, duck and goose eggs.
• Dairy: Butter, cheese and cream.

These foods provide proteins, fats and certain essential nutrients. However, the absence of vegetables implies a lack of fiber and other important phytonutrients for health.

Benefits of the Carnivore Diet

Supporters of the carnivorous diet claim that it can offer several health benefits, such as:

• Weight Loss: Protein and fat help you feel fuller longer, which can reduce daily caloric intake.
• Digestive Improvement: Some people experience relief from digestive problems by eliminating foods that can cause inflammation.
• Blood Sugar Stabilization: Eliminating carbohydrates can help regulate glucose levels, which is beneficial for those with insulin resistance or diabetes.

Risks and Disadvantages of the Carnivore Diet.

Despite the potential benefits, the carnivorous diet also carries significant risks and disadvantages:

• Nutrient Deficiency: Lack of fruits and vegetables can lead to deficiencies of vitamins, minerals and fiber, such as vitamin C or E.
• Digestive Problems: Lack of fiber in the diet can cause constipation and other digestive problems.
• Cardiovascular Risk: A high intake of saturated fat may increase the risk of heart disease, although this is still a matter of debate.
• Difficult to Maintain: It is a very restrictive diet that can be difficult to follow over the long term, which could lead to abandoning the plan and regaining weight.

Sample Daily Menu in the Carnivore Diet

An example of a daily menu in this diet could be:

• Breakfast: Three eggs cooked in butter, accompanied by ham and cheese.
• Lunch: One rib-eye steak.
• Dinner: Beef patties with bacon.

It is not usual to include snacks, since meals rich in proteins and fats are usually very satiating.

Conclusion

The carnivorous diet is a radical approach that may provide some short-term benefits, but it also presents significant health risks. Before starting any restrictive diet, it is essential to consult with a health professional to ensure that it is safe and suitable for your personal needs.