A new study published in Nutrients sheds light on the nutrient adequacy of the carnivore diet, a controversial eating plan that eliminates plant-based foods entirely. While some claim that this diet can manage chronic health conditions, the study explores whether it can fully meet the body’s micronutrient requirements, providing key insights into its potential benefits and limitations.
The carnivore diet, which relies solely on animal products, has gained popularity in recent years, particularly among individuals seeking alternatives to manage chronic inflammatory conditions. However, one critical concern remains: Can it provide all the necessary vitamins and minerals the body needs to function optimally? This study is one of the first to analyze the micronutrient content of the diet and compare it to national nutrient reference values (NRVs).
Metabolic changes associated with the carnivore diet, such as the effects of carnitine on vitamin C metabolism, may potentially reduce the body’s requirement for certain micronutrients. But the need for further research on this concept is clear.
The primary aim of the study was to evaluate the micronutrient adequacy of four variations of the carnivore diet in comparison to NRVs set by the New Zealand Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC). The research team designed four distinct meal plans for case studies based on the average male and female Australian population, each with a body mass index (BMI) of 22.5, and took energy expenditure into account using the Schofield equation.
The meal plans were tailored to meet a protein intake of 25–30% of total calories, with 70-75% of the remaining calories coming from fat, and less than 5% from carbohydrates. The study considered both dairy and offal (organ meats) as potential sources of essential micronutrients, such as calcium and iron, in the diet.
The findings revealed that while the carnivore diet met many of the nutrient requirements, it also highlighted several important gaps:
Micronutrient Excesses and Deficiencies: The carnivore diet provided adequate levels of riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B12, selenium, phosphorus, zinc, vitamin B6, and vitamin A. However, it fell short of recommended daily intakes for thiamin, magnesium, calcium, iron, vitamin C, iodine, and folate.
Fiber and Potassium: All meal plans lacked sufficient fiber, with intake falling below 1% of the recommended adequate intake (AI). Potassium levels were also lower than recommended in three of the meal plans.
Sodium Intake: One concern raised by the study was the high sodium content. With salt included in all meal plans, sodium intake exceeded recommendations by 15 to 20 times, potentially increasing long-term health risks, such as high blood pressure.
Dairy and Offal’s Role: When dairy was included in the diet, calcium intake improved but still didn’t meet the daily recommended intake of 1,000 mg for adults. Including liver in the meal plan boosted iron intake, particularly for females, and ensured adequate iodine levels when iodized salt was used.
While the carnivore diet can provide many essential nutrients, the study highlights the importance of individualized dietary planning and monitoring. Given the diet’s potential for nutrient gaps, particularly in areas such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium, health professionals recommend careful supplementation and regular nutrient checks.
For those adopting this diet, or considering it for therapeutic reasons, personalized advice from a healthcare provider or dietitian is crucial to ensure nutrient sufficiency and long-term health.
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