The carnivore diet (eating only animal products: meat, eggs, dairy) gained controversy through proponents like Shawn Baker, Paul Saladino, Jordan Peterson. Claimed benefits: weight loss, autoimmune relief, mental clarity. Nutritionists warned of nutrient deficiencies, heart disease risk.
Protocol Basics
- Foods - Beef, pork, chicken, fish, eggs, some dairy
- Eliminated - All plants (vegetables, fruits, grains, legumes)
- Philosophy - Humans are obligate carnivores, plants cause inflammation
High-Profile Advocates
- Shawn Baker - Orthopedic surgeon, ate ribeyes exclusively
- Jordan Peterson - Adopted for autoimmune issues (with daughter Mikhaila)
- Paul Saladino - “Carnivore MD,” later modified to include fruit
- Liver King - Later exposed for steroid use
Scientific Controversy
- Proponents - Cite ancestral eating, elimination diet success, anecdotal healing
- Critics - Lack fiber, vitamin C, phytonutrients; high saturated fat concerns
- Research gap - No long-term studies on all-meat diets
Sources: Shawn Baker’s podcast, nutrition research databases