Five reasons to rethink the carnivore diet

Before you jump on board with the carnivore diet, it’s important that you know the risks.

1. Nutritional deficiencies

If you get rid of plant-based foods, you also miss out on all the essential vitamins and minerals they offer, including:

• Vitamin C
• Potassium
• Magnesium
• Fiber

2. Increased risk of heart disease

Eating more red meat can raise ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol and blood lipids, which is dangerous for heart health.

3. Gut health issues

Meat doesn’t contain any fiber, which can spell trouble for your digestion and result in constipation. It can also affect your gut microbiome, which is important for digestion and immunity.

4. Stress on your kidneys

Ketosis puts stress on your whole body – especially the kidneys. In some cases, it may even cause kidney stones and kidney damage.

5. Increased risk of colon cancer

A diet high in red or processed meats, coupled with low fiber intake, can actually increase your chances of getting colon cancer.

Extreme diets are never the answer!

In general, eliminating entire food groups is a bad idea.

“This isn’t a diet that I ever recommend,” says Haynes. “Instead of cutting out a food group, try focusing on balance.”

Instead of filling your plate with one food group, try using the MyPlate approach to create a nutritious, well-balanced meal.

“This means filling a quarter of your plate with protein, a quarter with carbs, and half with vegetables,” Haynes explains. “This can help you create a balanced, satisfying plate, without cutting out your favorite foods.”