The Carnivore Diet Results: My 30-Day Transformation & Health Benefits
The carnivore diet has rapidly gained attention as an alternative approach to health and nutrition, challenging conventional dietary wisdom. What began as a short-term experiment for many has evolved into a sustainable lifestyle choice with reported benefits for inflammation reduction, weight management, and overall well-being. This eating pattern focuses exclusively on animal products, eliminating all plant-based foods including vegetables, fruits, grains, and seeds.
Practitioners of the carnivore diet typically consume beef, eggs, fish, and other animal proteins while emphasizing natural fats like butter, lard, and tallow. Despite its seemingly restrictive nature, many adherents report significant improvements in chronic conditions and inflammatory responses. When following this approach, reading ingredient labels becomes essential, as even seemingly simple products can contain hidden additives that don't align with the diet's principles.
Key Takeaways
The carnivore diet consists exclusively of animal products while eliminating all plant foods including vegetables, fruits, and grains.
Many practitioners report reduced inflammation and improvements in chronic health conditions shortly after beginning the diet.
Quality sourcing of meats and careful label reading are essential components of successfully implementing this dietary approach.
My Journey with the Carnivore Diet
I began my carnivore diet journey in January 2023, and I'm approaching my two-year anniversary. This lifestyle change wasn't my original plan. I initially wanted to lose weight and start a new diet, but everything changed when I had an adverse reaction to something I ate.
That reaction opened my eyes to how food directly impacts my body. I adopted the carnivore diet to reduce inflammation, never expecting it would become my long-term lifestyle. After nearly two years without vegetables, fruits, grains, or seeds, I've experienced remarkable changes.
My version of the carnivore diet includes beef, butter, bacon, eggs, salt, and coffee. I primarily eat beef rather than chicken, and occasionally include fish like tuna and sardines (particularly the low-mercury varieties packed in water). I avoid oils completely due to sensitivities stemming from my autoimmune and chronic illness background.
For fats, I use butter, lard, and beef tallow. I've even started using beef tallow as facial moisturizer. While dairy is permitted on the carnivore diet, I'm currently avoiding it. My coffee routine includes salt, butter, and unflavored beef isolate protein powder.
My refrigerator looks quite different now - mostly filled with:
Ground beef
Roasts from our half cow
Butter
Fish (salmon, mahi-mahi)
Pork belly
Beef patties
Eggs
When purchasing packaged foods, I carefully read ingredients. For example, with pork rinds, I look for simple ingredients like "fried pork skin, sea salt, fried in rendered pork fat" and avoid flavored varieties with additives.
The benefits began quickly. Within two weeks, my inflammation levels decreased significantly. Even strange symptoms like internal itching sensations and skin crawling disappeared. Before starting this diet, I would experience intense itching in my legs whenever I brushed my wet hair - a symptom that quickly vanished once I changed my eating habits.
I came to this diet with a background of autoimmune disorders and chronic illness. After hearing Michaela Peterson's story about healing by eating only meat, I felt I could relate to her struggles. When nothing else worked for my health issues, including inflammation in my eye and Ménière's disease that left me with no hearing in my left ear, I was desperate enough to try something that sounded restrictive and unconventional.
Defining the Carnivore Diet
The carnivore diet represents an eating approach that focuses exclusively on animal products while eliminating plant-based foods. This nutritional strategy has gained attention for its potential benefits in addressing inflammation and autoimmune conditions. It functions as a spectrum where individuals can make personal adjustments based on their specific needs and tolerances.
Acceptable Foods
The carnivore diet centers around animal-based products exclusively. The core foods include:
Meats: All varieties (beef, pork, lamb, game)
Seafood: Fish, shellfish, canned options like tuna and sardines
Animal fats: Butter, lard, tallow
Eggs: A staple protein source
Salt: An essential mineral component
Many practitioners emphasize beef as their primary protein source, supplemented with other animal products. When selecting packaged foods, reading ingredients becomes crucial to avoid additives or flavorings that fall outside strict carnivore guidelines.
Food Category Examples Notes Red Meat Beef, lamb, bison Often considered optimal Poultry Chicken, turkey Lower fat content Seafood Fish, shellfish Look for versions in water, not oil Animal Fats Butter, tallow, lard Essential energy sources Beverages Water, coffee Some include coffee with butter
Excluded Foods
The carnivore diet eliminates all plant-based foods completely. These excluded items include:
Vegetables: All varieties regardless of nutritional content
Fruits: Both fresh and dried
Grains: Including all wheat, rice, corn products
Seeds and nuts: All varieties
Fiber supplements: Not considered necessary
Sweeteners: Both natural and artificial
Processed additives: Flavorings, preservatives, or plant-derived ingredients
This approach challenges conventional nutrition by excluding fiber and carbohydrates, working from the premise that these nutrients are not essential for human health when adequate animal nutrition is consumed. Many practitioners report functioning well without plant foods for extended periods.
Personal Adjustments and Variations
The carnivore diet allows for individual customization based on specific health goals and sensitivities. Some practitioners include dairy products while others find elimination beneficial. Common variations include:
Dairy inclusion options:
Some tolerate certain dairy like butter or cheese
Others eliminate all dairy for optimal results
Beverage choices:
Water and sparkling water form the foundation
Some include coffee, sometimes enhanced with animal-based fats
Alcohol is typically excluded
Implementation approaches:
Strict carnivore: Animal products and salt only
Modified carnivore: May include small amounts of plant foods or seasonings
Budget considerations: Options range from ground beef to premium cuts
When purchasing packaged products, careful label reading becomes essential. For example, pork rinds should contain only pork skin and salt without additional flavorings or preservatives. Quality considerations also lead many to prioritize sustainable or organic meat sources when possible.
Health Improvements Noted
Physical Transformation and Reduced Inflammation
After adopting a carnivore diet in January 2023, significant weight loss and inflammation reduction occurred within the first two weeks. The diet, consisting primarily of beef, butter, bacon, eggs, fish, and salt, helped eliminate chronic inflammatory responses throughout the body. Skin-level inflammation decreased noticeably, and systemic inflammation that had previously affected vision began to subside. The absence of plant-based foods, including vegetables, fruits, grains, and seeds, appeared to reduce inflammatory triggers.
The carnivore approach proved particularly effective for managing weight without counting calories. Many practitioners report steady weight normalization when focusing on animal-based nutrition. For those with chronic inflammation issues, the diet's simplicity eliminated many potential inflammatory triggers found in modern food processing.
Resolution of Dermatological and Neurological Symptoms
The elimination of plant foods led to unexpected improvements in skin conditions and neurological sensations. Strange symptoms like internal itching and skin crawling disappeared shortly after beginning the carnivore protocol. One particularly troublesome symptom—intense leg itching that occurred during hair brushing—completely resolved.
Other sensory improvements included:
Elimination of skin crawling sensations
Reduction in unexplained itching
Improved skin texture and appearance
Cessation of internal "phantom" itching sensations
These changes occurred rapidly, often within the first few weeks of dietary change, suggesting a potential connection between certain foods and neurological skin reactions.
Managing Long-term Health Conditions
The carnivore approach demonstrated remarkable effectiveness for addressing autoimmune and chronic health challenges. For someone with a history of autoimmune disorders and chronic illness including Ménière's disease that had caused complete hearing loss in one ear, the diet provided relief when conventional treatments had previously failed.
Key health improvements included:
Condition Type Before Carnivore After Implementation Autoimmune reactions Frequent flares Significantly reduced Eye inflammation Recurring issues Stabilized Sensory disturbances Constant presence Largely eliminated Overall inflammation Chronically elevated Noticeably reduced
The diet's success came after numerous failed interventions, highlighting its potential for those with complex medical histories who haven't responded to standard treatments. The simplicity of focusing on clean, single-ingredient animal foods eliminated many potential triggers common in processed foods.
Diet Details and Implementation
Fat Selection
In the carnivore approach, fat choices play a crucial role in overall nutrition. The primary recommended fats come from animal sources rather than plant-based oils. Butter serves as a versatile option for both cooking and adding to beverages. Lard (pig fat) and beef tallow represent traditional animal fats that provide excellent cooking stability and flavor enhancement. Some practitioners even use beef tallow as a natural moisturizer for skin care, highlighting the multiple applications of these natural fats.
Dairy Options
Dairy products can be included in this eating approach, though individual tolerance varies significantly. Many followers experiment with dairy inclusion and may cycle through periods of using or eliminating it based on personal response. Hard cheeses, butter, and heavy cream tend to be the most commonly incorporated dairy items. Testing different dairy products and monitoring bodily responses helps identify which items work best for each person's specific needs and sensitivities.
Beverage Choices
Water forms the foundation of hydration on this dietary approach, with both still and sparkling varieties being acceptable options. Coffee remains a popular beverage that many practitioners continue to enjoy without issues. Some enhance their coffee with butter or unflavored beef protein isolate for additional nutrition. When selecting beverages, ingredient scrutiny becomes essential—avoiding additives, sweeteners, and flavorings proves beneficial for those with sensitivities. Salt may be added to beverages to support electrolyte balance.
Protein Sources
Beef typically forms the cornerstone of protein consumption in this approach, with options ranging from ground beef to various cuts of steak and roasts. Other animal proteins like eggs, pork (including bacon and pork belly), and seafood (particularly low-mercury fish like certain brands of tuna and sardines) round out the menu. When purchasing packaged protein products, label reading becomes crucial, as hidden ingredients often appear in processed items. For example, high-quality pork rinds with simple ingredients (pork skin, salt, fried in pork fat) can be included, while flavored varieties might contain problematic additives.
Recommended Protein Options:
Ground beef
Beef patties
Various cuts of steak
Eggs
Bacon
Pork belly
Low-mercury fish (tuna, sardines)
Any animal protein that "crawls, swims, or flies"
Food Selection and Grocery Practices
Ingredient Quality Matters
Selecting high-quality ingredients is essential for maintaining a healthy diet. When shopping for meat products, it's important to check the source and processing methods. For example, some canned fish products like Safe Catch tuna contain low mercury levels and are packed in water rather than oil, making them a better choice for those with sensitivities. Reading ingredient labels carefully helps identify hidden additives that might affect health outcomes. Products with minimal ingredients typically offer better nutritional value than heavily processed alternatives.
Navigating Retail Food Outlets
Shopping at warehouse stores and supermarkets requires planning and label awareness. Many consumers find value in purchasing meat products in bulk from stores like Costco and Sam's Club. The Members Mark beef patties from Sam's Club represent a cost-effective protein option. Local farmers and specialty shops often provide higher quality options, though at premium prices. When shopping at these larger establishments, the refrigerated section typically offers better quality meat products than shelf-stable alternatives.
Meat Selection Guidelines
When selecting meat products, fat content and processing methods deserve consideration. Beef, particularly ground beef and roasts, provides substantial nutritional value. For those on specialized diets, fattier cuts often deliver better satiety. Pork products like bacon and pork belly represent versatile protein options, with locally sourced varieties offering potential quality advantages. Fish selections such as salmon and mahi-mahi provide alternative protein sources with different nutritional profiles. For packaged meat products like pork rinds, checking ingredient lists helps avoid unwanted additives—look for simple ingredients like "fried pork skin" and "sea salt" rather than flavoring agents or preservatives.
Insights on Fats and Carbohydrates
The conventional understanding of nutrition has undergone significant shifts in recent years. Contrary to popular belief, carbohydrates and fiber are not essential nutrients for human health. Many individuals have thrived for extended periods—even years—without consuming vegetables, fruits, grains, or seeds.
When transitioning to a meat-based diet, fat becomes the primary energy source. Quality sources include butter, lard (pig fat), and beef tallow. These animal fats provide not only calories but also essential nutrients without the inflammatory compounds found in many plant foods.
Food selection becomes straightforward but requires attention to detail. Reading ingredient labels carefully is crucial when purchasing packaged products. For example, pork rinds may seem like a suitable option, but many commercial brands contain added ingredients beyond just fried pork skin and salt.
Recommended animal-based options:
Beef (especially ground beef and roasts)
Eggs
Bacon
Fish (tuna, sardines, salmon)
Pork (including pork belly)
Butter
Important considerations:
Choose quality salt for seasoning
Verify ingredients in any packaged products
Select fish packed in water rather than oils
Consider dairy tolerance individually
Many people experience reduced inflammation within the first two weeks of eliminating plant foods. Skin sensitivities and internal itching sensations that were previously persistent often diminish quickly. These improvements can be particularly notable for those with autoimmune conditions or chronic illness backgrounds.
The diet's simplicity becomes evident when examining a typical refrigerator of someone following this approach: ground beef, various cuts of meat, eggs, and butter comprise the essentials. This streamlined approach to eating eliminates the confusion of complicated dietary rules while focusing on nutrient-dense foods.
For those interested in trying this approach, it's worth noting that implementation exists on a spectrum. What works for one person may need adjustment for another. Finding the optimal balance requires personal experimentation and attention to individual responses.
Label Reading and Food Selection
Packaged Food Analysis
When shopping for packaged foods on a carnivore diet, careful label reading becomes essential. Ingredients lists reveal hidden additives that may not align with dietary goals. Always check what's included, particularly in canned products. For example, when selecting canned fish, opt for versions packed in water rather than oils.
Products marketed as "natural" can still contain problematic ingredients. Be vigilant about natural flavors, sweeteners, and preservatives that manufacturers might add. These can trigger sensitivities in individuals with autoimmune conditions or chronic illnesses.
Evaluating Animal Products
Pork rinds can be an excellent snack option when chosen wisely. Quality brands list simple ingredients: fried pork skin, sea salt, and pork fat for frying. Check ingredient labels carefully as many commercial versions contain flavor enhancers, preservatives, or vegetable oils.
Pay attention to the cooking method mentioned on pork rind packaging. Products fried in rendered pork fat align better with carnivore principles than those using seed oils. Some brands add sugar, MSG, or other flavor enhancers that may cause reactions in sensitive individuals.
The processing matters significantly with packaged animal products. Clean options with minimal ingredients support dietary consistency and help avoid unexpected reactions. This simple verification step prevents accidental consumption of non-carnivore ingredients.
Documenting the Journey
Starting a carnivore diet in January 2023 completely transformed my health journey. After experiencing an unexpected reaction to food, I decided to eliminate inflammatory foods to calm my system. What began as a temporary solution evolved into a sustainable lifestyle that has lasted nearly two years.
My carnivore approach focuses on simplicity. The foundation consists of beef, butter, bacon, eggs, salt, and coffee. While some might include various animal products, I primarily consume beef with occasional fish like low-mercury tuna and skinless, boneless sardines in water. Other acceptable options include any animal that crawls, swims, or flies, along with natural fats such as butter, lard, and beef tallow.
Fridge Staples:
Ground beef
Eggs
Butter
Salmon and mahi-mahi
Pork belly
Beef patties
When purchasing packaged products, ingredient verification is essential. For example, pork rinds should contain only fried pork skin, sea salt, and be fried in rendered pork fat without additional flavorings or additives.
The health improvements began remarkably quickly. Within the first two weeks, inflammation levels decreased noticeably. Strange sensory issues like internal itching and skin crawling sensations that had been constant companions disappeared. The persistent leg itching that occurred when brushing wet hair vanished entirely as inflammation flushed from my system.
For those considering the carnivore diet, it's worth noting that both fiber and carbohydrates are non-essential nutrients. I haven't consumed vegetables, fruits, or sugar in two years. My approach allows for coffee with salt, butter, and unflavored beef isolate protein, though I avoid natural flavors and sweeteners like stevia.
Having a background of autoimmune disorders and chronic illness made me receptive to this approach after hearing Michaela Peterson's story. When conventional medical appointments and treatments weren't providing solutions, this seemingly restrictive diet offered an accessible alternative that produced immediate results.
Closing Thoughts
The journey of adopting a carnivore diet has been transformative in unexpected ways. What began as a simple weight loss goal in January 2023 evolved into a complete lifestyle change that continues two years later. The discovery that certain foods were triggering inflammatory responses led to eliminating vegetables, fruits, grains, and seeds completely.
The carnivore approach centers on animal-based foods - primarily beef, butter, bacon, and eggs. Fish like tuna and sardines (particularly low-mercury, water-packed varieties) can be included, though personal sensitivities may dictate individual choices. Quality fats such as butter, lard, and beef tallow are staples within this dietary framework.
When shopping for packaged products, ingredient checking is essential. Items like pork rinds should contain minimal ingredients - ideally just pork skin and salt. Many packaged foods contain hidden additives that don't align with carnivore principles.
For those with autoimmune conditions and chronic illnesses, the carnivore approach may offer relief from inflammatory symptoms. Benefits can appear relatively quickly, sometimes within the first two weeks, as inflammation levels decrease and sensory issues diminish.
