The Carnivore Diet: A Whole-Food Approach to Animal-Based Eating

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The carnivore diet is a whole-food dietary approach that focuses on consuming only animal-based foods such as meat, fish, eggs, and, optionally, dairy. Advocates of this diet often view it as a simplified way of eating that aligns with how early humans may have eaten.

What Does the Carnivore Diet Include?

A typical carnivore diet includes:

• Beef: steak, mince, roasts
• Pork: chops, bacon, ham
• Poultry: chicken, turkey
• Lamb and mutton
• Fish and seafood: salmon, sardines, tuna, shellfish
• Eggs: chicken, duck, or quail
• Dairy (optional): cheese, cream, butter, yogurt (depending on individual tolerance)
• Organ meats: liver, kidney, heart, etc.

Many people who follow this diet also include bone broth and organ meats for a broader range of nutrients.

Why Some Choose This Diet

Supporters of the carnivore diet may choose it for various reasons, including dietary simplicity or interest in nutrient-dense animal products. Whole animal foods naturally contain essential nutrients such as:

• Vitamin B12: supports energy metabolism and normal neurological function
• Iron: needed for normal oxygen transport in the blood
• Zinc: supports immune health
• Vitamin A (from liver): involved in vision and skin health
• Omega-3s (from fish): support normal brain function

These nutrients are typically more bioavailable in animal-based foods, meaning they are generally easier for the body to absorb and utilise.

Example: A Simple 7-Day Carnivore Meal Plan

Day 1

• Breakfast: Scrambled eggs and bacon
• Lunch: Grilled chicken thighs
• Dinner: Ribeye steak

Day 2

• Breakfast: Boiled eggs
• Lunch: Sardines
• Dinner: Pork chops

Day 3

• Breakfast: Omelette with minced lamb
• Lunch: Lamb cutlets
• Dinner: Salmon fillet

Day 4

• Breakfast: Fried eggs
• Lunch: Beef patties
• Dinner: Roasted mackerel

Day 5

• Breakfast: Poached eggs
• Lunch: Chicken drumsticks
• Dinner: Pork belly

Day 6

• Breakfast: Duck eggs
• Lunch: Grilled steak
• Dinner: Baked fish

Day 7

• Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with liver (optional)
• Lunch: Turkey breast
• Dinner: Lamb shoulder

This sample plan highlights the variety within the diet and how it can be tailored to individual preferences.

A Note on Organ Meats

Organ meats such as liver, kidney, and heart provide a concentrated source of important nutrients including vitamin A, folate, iron, and copper. Including these occasionally in the diet can help support diverse nutrient intake.

Important Considerations

This way of eating may not be suitable for everyone, and its restrictive nature means careful planning is important to avoid nutritional gaps. It is highly recommended to:

• Consult with a qualified healthcare professional or dietitian before starting
• Consider personal health status and dietary needs
• Focus on variety within animal-based options to help meet nutrient requirements

This content is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health condition. Please consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle.