In recent years, the carnivore diet has gained a lot of attention, both positive and negative. There are countless misconceptions floating around, which can make it seem like a restrictive, dangerous, or even extreme way of eating. As someone who has been on the carnivore diet for 2.5 years with my husband, Ben, I’ve seen first-hand the incredible benefits of an animal-based way of eating—and how surprisingly easy it is to follow.
One of the most transformative aspects of this journey has been watching Ben reverse his type 2 diabetes entirely through carnivore eating. Here's the truth about the carnivore diet and how it worked for us.
Myth 1: The Carnivore Diet Is Nutrient Deficient
One of the most common myths about the carnivore diet is that it lacks essential nutrients. Critics argue that without fruits, vegetables, or grains, you're depriving your body of vitamins, minerals, and fibre. However, the truth is that animal products are incredibly nutrient-dense, offering all the essential amino acids, fats, vitamins, and minerals our bodies need.
Organ meats like liver are packed with nutrients, while muscle meats provide high-quality protein and fats that our bodies thrive on. Ben and I have both experienced better energy levels, improved mental clarity, and enhanced physical performance since switching to carnivore.
Myth 2: It’s Hard to Stick To
People often think the carnivore diet is hard to maintain, imagining it to be boring or unsatisfying. However, we’ve found it to be one of the easiest ways of eating, as it eliminates cravings and simplifies meal planning. When you focus on high-quality meats, eggs, and animal fats, you feel fuller for longer, meaning you aren’t constantly snacking or battling hunger.
As Australians, we’re fortunate to have access to great local beef, lamb, pork, and seafood. Our meals are simple: a juicy steak or lamb chops, grilled fish, or even a slow-cooked roast. It’s delicious and doesn’t require fancy ingredients or complicated cooking.
Myth 3: You Can’t Reverse Chronic Health Conditions
One of the most rewarding parts of the carnivore diet has been witnessing Ben’s health transformation. Ben was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes almost 10 years ago, and like many, he was told to manage it through medication and a low-fat, high-carb diet. But this only seemed to make things worse.
After trying every fad diet under the sun, we stumbled upon carnivore, we cut out all sugars and carbs with a focus on animal based products. Within months, his blood sugar levels stabilised, and over time, he completely reversed his diabetes and came off all medication. This wasn’t some drastic, temporary fix—it’s been 2.5 years, and his health is better than ever. His doctors were amazed, but the proof is in the pudding (so to speak!).
Myth 4: It’s Expensive
Another common belief is that the carnivore diet is costly. While quality meat does come at a price, it’s not as expensive as it seems once you stop buying processed foods, snacks, and the endless variety of ingredients you’d need for a mixed diet. We now spend less money on food than we used to because we’ve simplified our grocery list to just the basics.
Plus, we’re no longer paying for medications, supplements, or extra trips to the doctor’s office, which also adds up over time.
Myth 5: The Carnivore Diet Will Skyrocket Your Cholesterol
A common concern about the carnivore diet is that eating large amounts of animal fats will drastically raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease. However, the relationship between dietary cholesterol and heart health is complex, and recent research has challenged many of the old assumptions. While it’s true that some people may see changes in cholesterol levels on a carnivore diet, the key is understanding that not all cholesterol is harmful. Factors like inflammation, triglyceride levels, and overall metabolic health play a much larger role in cardiovascular risk. There’s a wealth of information available on this topic, so it's important to do your own research and consult health professionals if you're concerned.
Final Thoughts: It’s Easier Than You Think
The carnivore diet might seem radical from the outside, but in reality, it’s one of the most natural and sustainable ways of eating. For Ben and me, it’s been a game-changer, not only in terms of our health but also in how easy it is to maintain. With Ben’s type 2 diabetes in the rearview mirror, we’re convinced that eating animal-based is not only beneficial but incredibly simple.
As we embraced the carnivore diet, an unexpected benefit was discovering tallow—pure, rendered animal fat—as a natural skincare solution. This nutrient-rich by-product of our way of eating became the foundation for our brand, Wyld Hyde. Now, thanks to our carnivore lifestyle, not only do we feel incredible on the inside, but our skin thrives on the outside too.
If you’ve been on the fence about trying the carnivore diet, I encourage you to give it a go. It could be the life-changing, health-boosting, and uncomplicated way of eating that you’ve been searching for.
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