A comprehensive review of existing research on all-meat carnivore diets, published Tuesday in the journal Nutrients, has found no credible evidence to support claims that eliminating all plant foods improves long-term health outcomes. The review, conducted by a team of 14 registered dietitians and nutritional scientists, analyzed 38 studies spanning the last decade.
While the review acknowledged that some individuals report short-term improvements in inflammation markers and digestive symptoms when switching to a carnivore diet, these benefits were attributed to the elimination of processed foods rather than the exclusion of all plant matter. Long-term adherence was associated with elevated LDL cholesterol, reduced gut microbiome diversity, and increased colorectal cancer risk.
The researchers urged consumers to approach social media diet claims with skepticism, noting that most carnivore diet testimonials come from influencers without nutritional credentials. They recommended a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains as the most evidence-supported approach to long-term health.
