The Ultimate Carnivore Diet Food List (2024)

If you’re considering trying the carnivore diet, here’s a comprehensive carnivore diet food list to help you get started.

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The Ultimate Carnivore Diet Food List (1)

The carnivore diet, also known as the zero-carb diet or the all-meat diet, is a type of diet that primarily consists of animal products. This means that you eat only meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products while avoiding all plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes.

Jump to:
  • Foods Allowed On The Carnivore Diet
  • Food Not Allowed On The Carnivore Diet
  • Top Tips
  • Carnivore Diet Meal Plan
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Wrapping It Up

While the carnivore diet may seem restrictive, it can be a beneficial option for those looking to improve their overall health, lose weight, or address specific health issues. If you’re interested in starting a carnivore diet, it’s important to know which foods are allowed and which ones are not.

Foods Allowed On The Carnivore Diet

Beef

All cuts of beef are allowed, including steak, beef liver, ground beef, and roast.

Pork

Bacon, pork chops, pork roast, pork rinds, and pork loin are all allowed on the carnivore diet.

Poultry

Chicken, turkey, duck, and other types of poultry are allowed.

Fish

Salmon, tuna, sardines, mackerel, shrimp, scallops, lobster, oysters, trout, and other types of fish are allowed.

Eggs

All types of eggs, including chicken, duck, and quail eggs, are allowed on the carnivore diet.

Dairy products

Full-fat dairy products such as butter, cheese, yogurt, and heavy cream are allowed, although some people may choose to avoid dairy altogether.

Organ meats

Liver, heart, and other organ meats are allowed on the carnivore diet.

Bone broth

Homemade bone broth made from animal bones is allowed.

Salt and pepper

These can be used to season your food.

Looking for recipes? Check out our collection of carnivore diet recipes.

Food Not Allowed On The Carnivore Diet

Fruits

All types of fruits, including berries, apples, oranges, and bananas, are not allowed.

Vegetables

All types of vegetables, including leafy greens, herbs, root vegetables like potatoes, and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, are not allowed.

Grains

All types of grains, including wheat, rice, quinoa, and corn, are not allowed.

Legumes

All types of legumes, including beans, lentils, and peas, are not allowed.

Sugar and sweeteners

All types of sugar and sweeteners, including honey, maple syrup, and artificial sweeteners, are not allowed on the carnivore diet.

Processed foods

All types of processed foods, including chips, soda, juice, cookies, and candy, are not allowed.

Alcohol

All types of alcohol, including beer, wine, and spirits, are not allowed on the carnivore diet.

Top Tips

  1. Drink plenty of water: While the carnivore diet is low in carbohydrates, it’s important to stay hydrated. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
  2. Choose high-quality animal products: When following a carnivore diet, it’s important to choose high-quality animal products. Look for grass-fed meats, wild-caught fish, and organic dairy products.
  3. Experiment with different cuts of meat: There are many different cuts of meat to choose from when following the carnivore diet. Try different cuts of beef, pork, and poultry to keep things interesting.
  4. Don’t be afraid of fat: The carnivore diet is a high-fat diet, and it’s important to get enough fat to stay satisfied and energized. Choose fatty cuts of meat and add butter, cheese, or heavy cream to your meals as desired.
  5. Consider supplements: While the carnivore diet can be nutritionally complete, some people may benefit from supplements such as vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and magnesium.

Carnivore Diet Meal Plan

Here’s a one-day meal plan for the carnivore diet to get you started:

Breakfast:

  • 2-3 fried eggs cooked in butter or lard
  • 2-3 slices of bacon or sausage
  • Coffee or tea (black or with heavy cream)

Lunch:

  • 8-10 oz. grilled ribeye steak
  • 1-2 cups of bone broth
  • Water or sparkling water

Snack:

  • 1-2 oz. of cheese
  • 1-2 hard-boiled eggs

Dinner:

  • 8-10 oz. of baked or grilled salmon
  • 1-2 cups of beef bone broth
  • 1-2 tablespoons of butter or ghee

Snack/Dessert:

  • 1-2 oz. of 85% or higher dark chocolate (not everyone will consider this as allowed on the carnivore diet; that is up to you!)

Frequently Asked Questions

What vegetables are OK on a carnivore diet?

The carnivore diet eliminates all plant-based foods, including vegetables, as it focuses solely on animal products. The diet’s philosophy is that animal-based foods provide all the necessary nutrients for the body and that consuming plants is unnecessary. However, some proponents of the carnivore diet may include small amounts of herbs and spices to add flavor to their meals, but vegetables are generally not included.

What cheese can you eat on a carnivore diet?

Cheese is a high-fat dairy product that is allowed on the carnivore diet, but not all types of cheese are created equal.
Here are some types of cheese that you can eat on a carnivore diet:

Hard Cheese: Hard cheeses such as cheddar, Parmesan, and Swiss are great options for the carnivore diet. These cheeses are low in lactose and high in fat, making them a great source of energy and flavor.

Soft Cheese: Soft cheeses such as Brie, Camembert, and goat cheese can also be consumed on the carnivore diet. These cheeses are higher in lactose, so be mindful if you have any lactose intolerance or sensitivities.

Blue Cheese: Blue cheese such as Roquefort, Gorgonzola, and Stilton are also allowed on the carnivore diet. These cheeses are high in fat and flavor, but some people may find them too strong or pungent.

When choosing cheese on the carnivore diet, it’s important to look for high-quality, full-fat options that are free from added sugars, flavors, and preservatives. Additionally, be mindful of any lactose intolerance or sensitivities, as some types of cheese may cause digestive issues in some individuals

How often should you eat on a carnivore diet?

The frequency of meals on a carnivore diet can vary based on personal preference and lifestyle. Some people on the carnivore diet choose to eat three meals a day, while others opt for two larger meals or one large meal per day.

Since the carnivore diet is highly satiating due to its high protein and fat content, many people find that they naturally eat less frequently on this diet. Additionally, since there are no carbohydrates to provide quick energy, some people may find that they have more sustained energy levels throughout the day when they eat larger, more infrequent meals.

Wrapping It Up

In summary, the carnivore diet is a highly restrictive diet that primarily consists of animal products. While it can be effective for weight loss and other health benefits, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new diet. By choosing high-quality animal products and staying hydrated, you can successfully follow the carnivore diet and improve your overall health.

The Ultimate Carnivore Diet Food List (2024)

FAQs

The Ultimate Carnivore Diet Food List? ›

These foods might include ruminant (beef, bison, lamb) meat, poultry, fish, eggs and dairy for those who tolerate (see discussion below for more information on this topic). In addition to these foods, “low toxicity” plant foods may be included for flavor, preference or texture/color.

What are all the foods you can eat on the carnivore diet? ›

Following the diet involves eliminating all plant foods from your diet and exclusively eating meat, fish, eggs, and small amounts of low-lactose dairy products. Foods to eat include beef, chicken, pork, lamb, turkey, organ meats, salmon, sardines, white fish, and small amounts of heavy cream and hard cheese.

Why did Paul Saladino quit carnivore? ›

But in a recent interview with podcaster Thomas DeLauer, Saladino said that after five years on the carnivore diet his testosterone levels tanked. He also believes the diet is the cause of his sleep issues and joint and muscle pain.

What are the healthiest carnivore foods? ›

Foods to Eat on Carnivore Diet

Fish: salmon, tuna, mackerel, sardines, crab, etc. Animal Products: eggs, bone marrow, lard, bone broth, etc. Low-lactose dairy products (in small amounts): butter, heavy cream, hard cheese, etc.

How do you eat enough on a carnivore? ›

If you're struggling to get enough food in your carnivore diet, here are some tips and recommendations to try: Add whey or protein powder to meals. Consider eating smaller meals more frequently to better absorb all nutrients.

What did Joe Rogan eat on his carnivore diet? ›

Joe Rogan's daily intake, while on the Carnivore Diet, primarily consisted of meat. He often mentioned consuming elk, bison, and other game meats, along with more traditional meats like beef. Organ meats, particularly liver, were also a part of his diet.

How do you eat burgers on the carnivore diet? ›

We recommend stacking the beef patty with the cheese facing up, top with bacon, fried egg, and the beef patty with the cheese facing down. Equally, serve one patty as an open burger and stack with you toppings of choice. Enjoy!

What is the downfall of carnivore diet? ›

The carnivore diet can lead to an increased risk of developing heart disease because it prioritizes foods that are high in saturated fat, such as fatty steaks, which can elevate cholesterol levels, Arsenault says. Meanwhile, eliminating fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts and seeds could increase your risk.

What happens if I eat carbs on a carnivore diet? ›

Do the carnivore diet and carbohydrates mix well? Digestion problems can arise if you eat carbohydrates on the carnivore diet. This can result from a spike in blood sugar, which can cause heartburn, bloating, or nausea, affecting how food is digested.

What can go wrong on the carnivore diet? ›

What are carnivore diet side effects? Carnivore diet side effects include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, constipation, headache, hydration issues from fluid loss, dizziness, fatigue and insomnia. Some of these are short-term and will last for days to weeks.

What are 3 disadvantages of the carnivore diet? ›

Cons of the Carnivore Diet:
  • It's expensive (we all know how much the cost of meat has gone up)
  • It's restrictive.
  • It can cause health issues down the road.
  • Lack of fiber- bowel issues.
  • Lack of vitamins and minerals.
Nov 6, 2023

What is the best deli meat for carnivore diet? ›

Chicken, turkey, and beef are all good options.

It's common for deli meat products to contain added sugars, binders, and other additives. Look for natural, grass-fed options and avoid any products that contain unnatural flavorings or added sugars. That's going to be your best bet when eating snacks on a carnivore diet.

What is the best protein for carnivore diet? ›

Protein powder from animal sources can be used in the carnivore diet. These include beef, bison, and eggs. Carnivore protein powders are high-quality and easily digested. They're great for muscle-building due to their essential amino acids.

What is the 80 20 rule for carnivore diet? ›

Some carnivore enthusiasts even go for an 80/20 carnivore diet. This means 80% fat and 20% protein — no carbs at all. This fat-to-protein ratio carnivore diet is typically for experienced people on a carnivore diet.

What did Jordan Peterson eat on a carnivore diet? ›

Dr. Shawn Baker's carnivore diet includes chicken and fish and limited dairy products like cheese. The Jordan Peterson diet, however, includes just ruminant meat (beef, bison, lamb, and goat), salt, and water. Nothing else.

What is the secret of carnivore diet? ›

The carnivore diet plan is simple; you only eat animal foods and products. Everything else is restricted. That means no fruits, no vegetables, no bread or grains, and limiting your dairy intake to low-lactose foods.

Can I have coffee on a carnivore diet? ›

Yes, you can drink coffee on a carnivore diet. Despite its plant origin, many followers of the carnivore diet still consume coffee, considering caffeine's stimulating properties. However, caution must be taken as excessive intake of caffeine may add stress to the body's metabolism and disrupt sleep patterns.

What are the dos and don'ts of the carnivore diet? ›

The carnivore diet plan is simple; you only eat animal foods and products. Everything else is restricted. That means no fruits, no vegetables, no bread or grains, and limiting your dairy intake to low-lactose foods. It's almost the complete opposite of a vegan diet.

What vegetables are good on carnivore diet? ›

Following the carnivore diet means no vegetables, grains or any plant-based foods. There is some anecdotal evidence, according to its proponents, that the carnivore diet can lead to weight loss and improve metabolism and autoimmune diseases.

What is the level 1 carnivore diet? ›

On a tier 1 Carnivore diet, you might start with the low toxicity plants and add in moderate toxicity foods to see how you tolerate them. Many people will do best with NO plants for some amount of time, however. When all plants are eliminated, we move to a Tier 2 carnivore diet.

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