We’ve all heard that optimal health consists of 80% diet and 20% working out. Sometimes it’s easier staying disciplined by going to the gym or attending pilates classes, but slacking when it comes to nutrition. We thought we’d take a look at a few different diets that are either currently or still trending out there.
This content is meant to be informative in nature, but it should not be taken as medical advice. The opinions and articles are not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention, and/or treatment of health problems. It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before beginning a new fitness, nutritional, and/or supplement routine. If you feel you may be deficient in a particular nutrient or nutrients, please seek out a medical professional.
In the realm of dietary trends, the Carnivore Diet has emerged as a polarising and much-debated topic. It is a diet that shuns traditional food groups in favour of an all-meat regime, drawing both curiosity and criticism from various quarters.
The Carnivore Diet: An Overview
At its core, the Carnivore Diet is a regimen that consists exclusively of animal products - primarily meat, along with cheese, milk, animal-based fats, and sometimes eggs. It completely eliminates grains, vegetables, and fruits, making it an antithesis to veganism. Often termed as the Zero Carb Diet, it aligns closely with the keto diet principles, prioritising fat and protein over carbohydrates.
Proposed benefits and celebrity endorsements
The diet gained significant attention after public endorsements by figures like Jordan Peterson and his daughter Mikhaila Peterson, as well as Joe Rogan. They credited this diet with alleviating various health issues, ranging from rheumatoid arthritis to mental health disorders. However, it is crucial to note that these claims lack robust scientific backing. Moreover, traditionally, anti-inflammatory diets are known to be plant-based, a stark contrast to the Carnivore Diet's approach.
Potential health benefits and weight-loss claims
Proponents of the Carnivore Diet argue its benefits in weight loss, owing to the high satiation levels from protein intake. It is believed to curb calorie intake and potentially induce a state of ketosis, where the body burns fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates. However, excess protein can disrupt this process, and the monotonous nature of the diet could also limit overeating.
Health risks and concerns
The diet's restrictive nature raises several health concerns. According to Liz Weinandy from the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, relying solely on meat can lead to deficiencies in vital nutrients abundant in plants, such as vitamin C and E. Additionally, a high intake of red and processed meats is linked to an increased risk of gastric cancer and can strain the kidneys. The diet's lack of fibre is another point of concern, particularly for colonic health.
The debate over saturated fats
One of the key debates surrounding the Carnivore Diet pertains to the intake of saturated fats from meats like steaks and bacon. While the role of dietary saturated fat in heart disease is contested, many studies recommend replacing saturated fats with unsaturated ones to reduce heart disease risk.
Cultural and historical contexts
Some Carnivore Diet followers cite historical examples, like the Inuit diet (the diet of Eskimos), to justify their food choices. However, these comparisons are often oversimplified and do not accurately represent the nutritional diversity in such traditional diets.
Who should and shouldn’t try the Carnivore Diet?
The Carnivore Diet may serve as a short-term elimination diet for identifying food intolerances, but its long-term safety remains unexplored. It's advised to consult a registered dietitian before embarking on such a restrictive diet, especially for individuals with chronic diseases or a history of disordered eating.
Final thoughts
While the Carnivore Diet may seem appealing for its simplicity and potential health benefits, it is important to approach it with caution. The absence of long-term research makes it a risky dietary experiment. Nutrition experts emphasise a balanced approach to diet, one that includes a variety of food groups, rather than extreme restrictions. The old wisdom of a balanced diet, inclusive of vegetables and fruits, remains the safer and more scientifically supported path to health and well-being.