From the Guidelines
The carnivore diet is not recommended due to limited scientific research supporting its long-term safety and efficacy in humans, and potential risks to nutritional adequacy and cardiovascular health. While some observational studies and case reports suggest potential benefits for certain individuals, particularly those with autoimmune conditions or inflammatory disorders, comprehensive clinical trials are lacking 1. Some research indicates that certain indigenous populations like traditional Inuit have historically consumed predominantly animal-based diets with apparent health, though these populations often consumed specific organ meats and had genetic adaptations. Short-term studies have shown that carnivore diets may improve certain metabolic markers and reduce inflammation in some individuals, potentially due to the elimination of plant compounds that may trigger sensitivities in susceptible people. However, concerns remain about nutritional adequacy, particularly regarding fiber, certain vitamins, and phytonutrients, as well as potential long-term cardiovascular impacts from high saturated fat intake. The diet may pose risks including potential kidney stress, altered gut microbiome, and increased environmental impact.
Key Considerations
- Limited scientific research supporting the carnivore diet
- Potential risks to nutritional adequacy and cardiovascular health
- Importance of medical supervision and regular monitoring of health markers
- Individual responses to the diet may vary significantly, and long-term outcomes remain largely unknown
Recommendations
- A balanced and varied diet that includes a range of whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, is recommended for overall health and well-being.
- Individuals considering a carnivore diet should do so under medical supervision and with regular monitoring of health markers.
- More research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of a carnivore diet.
From the Research
Research on Carnivore Diet in Humans
There are no research papers provided that directly support the carnivore diet in humans. The studies available focus on different aspects of nutrition, such as dietary fiber, vitamin and mineral supplements, and the association of dietary calcium with mortality.
Studies on Related Topics
- The study 2 discusses the importance of dietary fiber in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes, which may not be directly relevant to a carnivore diet.
- The study 3 examines the benefits and harms of vitamin and mineral supplementation in healthy adults, finding little to no benefit in preventing cancer, cardiovascular disease, and death.
- The study 4 investigates the effect of vitamin D supplementation on the risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease, concluding that it did not result in a lower incidence of invasive cancer or cardiovascular events.
- The study 5 explores the association between dietary calcium and mortality from all causes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer in people with hypertension, suggesting that elevated dietary calcium may be associated with lower mortality risk.
- The study 6 reviews the benefits of low-carbohydrate diets for weight management and type 2 diabetes, highlighting the controversies and unresolved issues surrounding this topic.
Key Findings
- The available studies do not provide direct evidence to support the carnivore diet in humans.
- Dietary fiber, vitamin and mineral supplements, and dietary calcium may have various health benefits, but their relevance to a carnivore diet is unclear.
- Low-carbohydrate diets may have benefits for weight management and type 2 diabetes, but more research is needed to fully understand their effects.