Understanding the Carnivore Diet
The carnivore diet, sometimes called the lion diet, is an extreme elimination diet involving eating only meat and animal products. It excludes all other foods, including fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, dairy, sweets, and plant-based oils. The only drinks allowed are water and sometimes milk or bone broth.
Background on the All-Meat Diet
The carnivore diet was popularized by Canadian psychologist Jordan Peterson after he claimed eating only beef, salt, and water improved his depression, anxiety, and autoimmune symptoms. Supporters believe it can benefit conditions like:
- Autoimmune disorders
- Digestive issues
- Skin conditions
- Excess weight
- Diabetes
Allowed Foods and Drinks on the Plan
All foods must come from animal sources, with ruminant meat being key. Allowed meats include:
- Beef
- Lamb
- Goat
- Venison
- Pork
- Poultry
- Fish and shellfish
- Eggs
Dairy like cheese, butter, and heavy cream may be allowed by some followers. Offal meats such as liver and bone marrow are also permitted. Salt and pepper are used as basic seasonings.
Carnivore Diet Approved Drinks
On a true carnivore diet, the primary beverage consumed is water. Some versions allow additional drink options like bone broth or milk.
Water
Staying well hydrated by drinking plenty of water is key for health on a zero carb carnivore diet. Plain, filtered water should make up the bulk of fluid intake.
Bone Broth
Sipping on bone broth provides hydration plus vitamins, minerals, and collagen from animal bones. Opt for homemade bone broth so you control ingredients.
Milk
Raw, whole milk from pasture-raised cows contains lactose, fat, and protein to nourish those able to tolerate dairy. Goat or sheep milk may also be allowed.
Herbal Tea
Some carnivore followers permit unsweetened herbal teas like mint, chamomile or rooibos tea. However, others avoid due to plant compounds that may cause digestive upset.
Sparkling Water
Plain sparkling water adds bubbly refreshment without sugar or artificial ingredients. Opt for mineral water for a calcium boost.
Sample Carnivore Meal Plan and Drink Options
Following are carnivore diet drink options to accompany an all-meat meal plan for one week.
Day 1
Breakfast: Bacon and eggs with water
Lunch: Beef burger patty with bone broth
Dinner: Lamb chops with sparkling water
Day 2
Breakfast: Greek yogurt with strawberries
Lunch: Grilled chicken salad
Dinner: Veggie pizza
Day 3
Breakfast: Spinach and mushroom omelet
Lunch: Bean and veggie burrito
Dinner: Pasta primavera
Potential Benefits and Risks
Despite anecdotal benefits reported by fans of the carnivore diet, it remains a controversial approach. Consider potential pros and cons before trying long term.
Purported Benefits
- May relieve inflammation
- Can induce fat loss and ketosis
- Eliminates common allergens
Potential Risks and Drawbacks
- Nutrient deficiencies long term
- Kidney strain
- Heightened heart disease risk factors
- Lack of gut microbiome diversity
- Difficult to sustain socially
An extreme meat-only diet should only be followed with medical guidance and monitoring. Supplementation may be necessary to support certain restricted nutrients too.
The Bottom Line
The highly restrictive carnivore diet is difficult to maintain long term and lacks scientific evidence. Work closely with your healthcare provider to ensure safety and meet nutritional needs before trying this extreme meat-only approach.
FAQs
What can I drink on the carnivore diet?
The main drinks allowed are water, bone broth, milk such as whole cow's or goat's milk, sparkling/mineral water, and sometimes unsweetened herbal tea. Juices, diet sodas, coffee, and alcohol are not permitted.
Is diet soda allowed on the carnivore diet?
No, diet sodas and other artificially sweetened drinks are not permitted. The carnivore diet restricts anything except water and other animal-sourced drinks.
Can I drink coffee on the carnivore diet?
Most versions of the carnivore diet do not allow coffee or other caffeinated drinks aside from plain tea or water. This is due to compounds in coffee coming from plant sources.
Why is bone broth important on the carnivore diet?
Drinking bone broth provides hydration as well as important nutrients like protein, collagen, vitamins, and minerals missing from an all-meat diet. This helps counter potential nutritional deficiencies.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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