3 Crucial Steps To Start The Carnivore Diet

There’s no doubt that the idea of an animal-based diet is daunting. It’s a huge departure from the Standard American Diet (SAD) which relies on carbohydrates as the main source of energy.

If you're intrigued by the idea of a diet based on animal products but don’t know how to start, you're in the right place. The carnivore diet is gaining traction for its simplicity and potential health benefits, including weight loss. 

In this guide, we'll give you the first three steps for embarking on this meat-centric journey. So, grab your steak knife, and let's dive in!

Step 1. Consult Your Healthcare Professional

The carnivore diet is, for most people, quite an extreme change. That’s why it’s crucial that, before diving headfirst into the world of this animal protein focused diet, you consult with your carnivore doctor. Regular check-ins should always be a part of your routine, but it's especially important when making such a big change in your lifestyle.

Dr. Shawn Baker

Dr. Gabrielle Lyon

Dr. Ken Berry

Eating animal foods exclusively may seem straightforward. However, it's essential to ensure that it aligns with your individual health needs and goals. So before indulging in a feast of animal foods, ask your healthcare professional about the potential risks for you specifically.

They can offer personalized guidance and help you navigate the transition from a diet rich in plant-based and highly processed foods to one focused on mostly meat. There are many variations of the carnivore diet. Getting a clear picture of your body can help you make a choice that is best suited to you and your body’s needs. 

Additionally, your doctor can advise on important factors of the carnivore diet. These include sourcing high-quality animal foods, managing animal fat intake, and monitoring any potential nutrient deficiencies that may arise from eliminating plant foods from your diet. 

Remember, your health is paramount, so don't skip this vital step before embarking on your carnivore journey!

Step 2. Choose A Type Of Carnivore Diet

Once you have visited your healthcare professional and they have given you the go-ahead, it's time to start planning! The first step when embarking on the carnivore diet journey is to decide which specific type of carnivore you want to be.One of the biggest carnivore diet benefits is how flexible it is with multiple variations. So you can choose which one best aligns with your preferences and health goals.

Here are some popular types of carnivore diets to consider:

Standard Carnivore Diet

This is the most common version of the carnivore diet. It consists of animal products, including meat, fish, eggs, and animal-derived fats. All foods that come from plants are excluded. 

If you don’t need to make any adjustments because of your health, this type of carnivore diet is for you.

Dairy-Inclusive Carnivore Diet

The dairy-inclusive carnivore diet is a relaxed version of the standard carnivore diet which minimizes dairy intake. As the name suggests, this variation includes dairy products such as cheese, butter, and heavy cream.

If you tolerate dairy well, this alternative will add a little variation to your diet.

Zero Carb Carnivore Diet

True to its name, this variation focuses on consuming zero carbs, exclusively relying on animal products while eliminating all plant foods and dairy.

This strict animal-based diet has shown potential benefits for individuals with autoimmune issues, as it eliminates potential triggers found in plant-based foods.

However, it's important to note that this iteration is highly restrictive and may pose challenges for long-term adherence.

Ketogenic Carnivore Diet

Combining the principles of the carnivore diet with the ketogenic diet, this diet is commonly called the ketovore or carni-keto diet. In this variation, you emphasize high-fat, moderate-protein, and low-carb intake. 

It allows for a small amount of non-starchy vegetables, like broccoli, cauliflower, or asparagus. Much like the keto diet, it emphasizes reaching a state of ketosis. If you have high blood sugar and insulin levels, this can assist you in reducing them.

Paleolithic Carnivore Diet

Drawing inspiration from the Paleolithic era, this variation mimics the diet of our ancient ancestors. It consists primarily of meat, fish, and animal fats. 

Focusing on the source of food, the paleolithic carnivore diet excludes modern processed foods. It emphasizes whole, nutrient-dense animal products sourced from farms using the best practices. If you’re concerned about the environmental impact animal farming has, paleo diets will ease your conscience. 

Fish-Only Carnivore Diet

As the name implies, this variation focuses exclusively on consuming fish and seafood. It provides a leaner high protein option for carnivore dieters seeking variety.

Try this variation if you want to lose weight but are concerned about your cholesterol with a high amount of saturated fats.

Step 3. Prepare Yourself Mentally

Embarking on the carnivore diet isn't just a change in what you eat. It’s also a shift in mindset. The people who experience the most success are those who take the time to mentally prepare themselves by going through the following phases:

Education and Understanding
Taking the time to educate yourself can make a world of difference. If you understand this diet’s principles, potential benefits, and challenges, it will be a lot easier to stay committed and motivated.

Attitude Shift
View this carnivorous journey as an elimination diet rather than a restrictive one. An attitude of abundance rather than lack can help you remain optimistic. Instead of focusing on what you can't eat, shift your attention to all of the delicious animal-based products you can enjoy.

Goal Setting
Set clear health and fitness goals for yourself. These could include improving your energy levels, coping with an autoimmune disorder, losing weight, or optimizing your performance in the gym. Having specific goals can keep you motivated and validated.

Eating Habit Evaluation
Take a close look at your current eating habits and identify any patterns or behaviors that may need adjusting. Be on the lookout for mindless snacking, emotional eating, or reliance on processed food. If you find yourself getting hungry throughout the day, stock up on carnivore snacks.

Food Journaling
Consider keeping a food journal. When you track your progress and monitor how your body responds to the carnivore diet, it can help you get a better perspective. This can help you identify any food sensitivities or intolerances and fine-tune your approach to eating animal products.

Final Thoughts

Embarking on the carnivore diet can be a transformative journey toward improved health and well-being. But it’s also a big change. Consult with your healthcare professional, choose the right variation of the carnivore diet, and mentally prepare yourself for the transition. 

Follow these three fundamental tips and you'll be well-equipped to navigate the world of animal-based nutrition. This unique approach to a low-carb diet will help you with your fitness and health goals.

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