New diet trends pop up every day, but not all of them are safe. One such trend, the “carnivore diet,” has been making waves on social media, with many people jumping in without knowing the risks. Dallas-based influencer Eve Catherine, 23, was one of those who experienced the negative effects of the carnivore diet. Hoping for health benefits, she decided to follow a diet, which allows only animal-based foods. However, what started as a simple experiment quickly turned into a nightmare. She ended up in unbearable pain, rushed to the hospital, and realised firsthand how extreme dieting can do more harm than good.
Eve Catherine believed she was making a healthy choice by following a strict high-protein diet, starting her day with eggs, having yogurt for lunch, and ending with a steak for dinner. However, during a routine check-up, doctors found high protein levels in her urine and warned her about potential kidney problems. Dismissing the concerns, she remained convinced that her diet was benefiting her health, until things turned worse.
Then, one morning, everything changed. She woke up in extreme pain and saw blood in her urine. Panicked, she rushed to the hospital, where doctors had to give her morphine to ease the pain. After several tests, she was diagnosed with a kidney stone, something often linked to high-protein diets. That’s when she realized the risks of extreme dieting the hard way.
The carnivore diet, which consists solely of animal-based foods, has been linked to several health risks:
Kidney Issues: High protein intake can strain the kidneys, potentially leading to kidney stones or impairing kidney function, especially in individuals with existing kidney conditions.
Nutrient Deficiencies: Excluding plant-based foods eliminates essential nutrients such as vitamin C, magnesium, potassium, and fiber, which are vital for overall health.
Digestive Problems: The absence of dietary fiber can result in constipation and other digestive discomforts.
Heart Health Concerns: Diets high in saturated fats and cholesterol from animal products may elevate LDL cholesterol levels, increasing the risk of heart disease.
It’s essential to approach such restrictive diets with caution and consult healthcare professionals before making significant dietary changes.
The carnivore diet has become very popular on social media, with influencers and celebrities like Joe Rogan following it. This diet includes only animal-based foods like meat, fish, eggs, and dairy, while completely cutting out plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes.
Supporters say it helps with weight loss, reduces inflammation, and boosts energy. However, doctors warn that it lacks important nutrients like fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants, which are found in plant-based foods.
Some people have faced serious health issues due to this diet. For example, one influencer shared that the diet had badly affected their kidneys, raising concerns about its long-term effects.
What experts say
Doctors and dietitians say that while protein is important for muscle growth and overall health, a balanced diet is the best choice. They recommend eating a mix of lean proteins, healthy fats, complex carbs, and fibre to stay healthy.
Strict diets like the carnivore diet may give quick results, but they can be risky in the long run. Instead, experts suggest following a balanced and sustainable eating plan that supports overall well-being.
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