Carnivore Diet: The Ultimate Guide

2 min read

Introduction, what it is, benefits

Carnivore visual food guide

Carnivore meal plan

Verified by Oscar Tong, Dietitian (APD 056821)

What is the carnivore diet?

The carnivore diet is a high-protein, high-fat plan focusing solely on animal products, often inducing ketosis by drastically reducing carbs and promoting fat-burning for energy.

Benefits of the carnivore diet

Keto Weight loss

Eliminates carbs and sugars, promoting fat burning and ketosis.

Mental Clarity

Reduces brain fog by stabilising blood sugar and supporting ketone energy.

Muscle Growth

High protein supports muscle repair and strength.

Lower Inflammation

Cuts out inflammatory plant compounds and processed foods.

Simplified Eating

Offers an easy, straightforward meal plan with minimal food choices.

Improved Digestion

Improves gut health by eliminating common irritants like fibre, gluten, and plant antinutrients.

Stable Energy

Fat is a clean, lasting fuel that avoids sugar crashes and keeps energy steady.

Skin Health

Reduces acne or eczema by removing common dietary triggers.

How does it work?

1. Eliminate Carbs

Cut carbs to nearly 0%, eating only animal-based foods with around 30-40% protein and 60-70% fat.

2. Ketosis Begins

Without carbs, the body shifts to burning fat for energy, entering ketosis and producing ketones for fuel.

3. Benefits

This leads to weight loss, improved mental clarity, reduced inflammation, and clean stable energy levels.

Carnivore visual food guide

👉 Scroll right to see full list


Example 1500 Calorie Carnivore Meal Plan

📊 Total for the Day:
🥩 125g protein, 🥓 115g fat, 🍞 0g carbs

  • Breakfast

    🥚 3 large eggs (210 calories)
    🥓 2 slices of bacon (80 calories)
    🧈 1 tbsp butter (100 calories)
    🧀 30g cheddar cheese (110 calories)

    Macros: 500cal, 40g protein, 40g fat, 0g carb

  • Lunch

    🍗 150g chicken thigh (270 calories)
    🧈 1 tbsp ghee (120 calories)
    🧀 30g cheese (110 calories)
    Macros: ~45g protein, ~35g fat, 0g carbs

  • Dinner

    🥩 200g ribeye steak (500 calories)
    Macros: ~40g protein, ~40g fat, 0g carbs

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Carnivore Diet Side Effects

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you get enough nutrients without plants?

Proponents argue that animal foods provide all essential nutrients, but critics note potential deficiencies in vitamin C, fibre, and phytonutrients.

Does the carnivore diet put you in ketosis?

Yes, the diet can induce ketosis by drastically reducing carbs, making your body burn fat for energy and produce ketones.

What are the risks of the carnivore diet?

Risks include potential nutrient deficiencies (like vitamin C or magnesium), lack of dietary fibre, high cholesterol, and strain on the kidneys from excess protein.

Can you build muscle on the carnivore diet?

Yes, the diet's high protein content supports muscle growth and recovery, especially when paired with strength training.

Is the carnivore diet sustainable long-term?

Many find it restrictive and challenging to follow long-term, and its effects on overall health require more scientific study.

Will I experience side effects?

Common side effects include "keto flu" symptoms, bad breath, and digestive changes like constipation or diarrhoea when transitioning.

How does the carnivore diet affect cholesterol?

The standard keto macro split is 70% fat, 20% protein, and 10% carbs. Use an app to calculate net carbs (total carbs minus fibre) and ensure you're meeting your daily targets. For support, try our meal plans and supplements tailored to your goals.

Can carnivore cause nutrient deficiencies?

A poorly planned keto diet can lack vitamins and minerals, especially if you avoid nutrient-dense foods like leafy greens and nuts.
▪ Eat a variety of whole foods like spinach, eggs, salmon, and almonds.
▪ Use a daily multivitamin or our Keto Daily Greens to fill nutrient gaps.

Can you lose hair on carnivore?

Hair thinning can occur due to reduced calorie intake, nutrient deficiencies, or stress on the body. It’s usually temporary and improves with proper nutrition.
▪ Ensure you eat adequate protein (1.2-2g per kg of body weight). Use our keto calculator to be sure.
▪ Supplement with protein, collagen, and fibre, found in our Keto Collagen Protein Powder.

Can I drink alcohol on carnivore?

Yes, but choose low-carb options like dry wine, spirits (e.g., vodka, gin, whisky), or light beer.

Avoid sugary mixers and stick to moderation to stay in ketosis. Alcohol may slow weight loss temporarily, so plan accordingly.

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