What Is A Carnivorous Diet?
In this article, we will discuss the carnivorous diet. You’ve probably heard of it, as it is becoming more and more popular in certain circles. But what is a carnivorous diet and to whom is it recommended?
Many followers claim to have experienced better health benefits after trying this diet. But, as you will see in this article, the carnivorous diet is not supported by scientific evidence.
Carnivorous diet: an extremely restrictive diet that harms the environment
The carnivorous diet is not much different. In this case, it is a method of eating completely opposite to veganism. This consists exclusively of the consumption of meat from terrestrial animals.
In fact, the strictest versions of this diet state that the person in question should only eat red meat and drink water – nothing else. It is a very restrictive protocol that eliminates plant-based and seafood. People often end up suffering from nutritional deficiencies.
A person can meet their macronutrient needs by consuming meat (except carbohydrates). However, micronutrient levels may be low when there is no variety. Exclusive consumption of meat does not provide phytonutrients. If you didn’t know, these are essential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory substances that play an important role in maintaining health.
Moreover, the scientific literature claims that the incorporation of these nutrients in the diet helps to combat the occurrence of chronic diseases. In fact, it has been shown that these substances reduce the risk of degenerative pathologies associated with aging.
Arguments for defending the carnivorous diet
According to a study published in the journal Critical Reviews in Clinical Laboratory Sciences, simple sugars increase the incidence of metabolic diseases. Despite this, the intake of complex carbohydrates is necessary for almost all people, especially when you have to perform activities that involve high-intensity anaerobic effort.
In addition, there is an argument that strongly supports the implementation of the carnivorous diet. Basically, those who have tried it claim that they have fewer gastrointestinal problems. Others say it helps reduce bloating. This is because the carnivorous diet is a diet that does not contain any fiber.
But fiber is essential for intestinal health and peristalsis. Although it is true that those who experience an excessive development of intestinal bacteria should reduce their fiber intake, this is a rare and specific case.
Experts say that high doses of fiber could lead to the development of pathogenic bacteria. Therefore, digestion may become uncomfortable. In the case of this clinical picture, a temporary reduction in fiber intake could reverse the process. But it is very difficult and it is not recommended to eliminate fiber from the diet forever.
Is the carnivorous diet a sustainable diet?
The short and medium term effects are obvious. Research published in The World Journal of Pediatrics claims that ketogenic diets are safe, despite being restrictive. However, the carnivorous diet goes far too far.
Drastic restriction of phytonutrients can lead to serious health problems. This diet plan is not very successful because the range of foods it allows is very small.
For this reason, experts do not recommend the adoption of the carnivorous diet or its variants. Reducing carbohydrate intake may be recommended for many people, but only temporarily and in a varied diet rich in fish and plants.
It is also important to remember that restrictive diets can work individually for a short time, but are very unhealthy for the planet. Human beings are meant to eat a wide variety of foods. Excessive meat consumption negatively contributes to climate change.
