‘The Evidence Base Is Thin’: Scientists Analyze The Supposed Benefits Of Carnivore Diets

Scientists have analyzed the supposed benefits of carnivore diets and found the evidence base to be “thin.” A recent study examined the impact of carnivore diets on cardiovascular health and found potential risks such as increased LDL cholesterol levels, which can raise the risk of cardiovascular disease. The study, published in Recent Progress in Nutrition, found that while anecdotal reports suggest short-term improvements in glycemic control and certain cardiovascular risk markers, these might be due to concurrent weight loss and other factors.

In contrast with carnivore diets, plant-based foods are believed to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and other negative health outcomes. Studies have shown that reducing red and processed meat consumption in favor of vegetables and legumes can significantly reduce chronic disease cases and increase lifespan. A separate study found that following a plant-rich diet can cut heart disease risk by up to 28 percent, highlighting the importance of plant-based foods in reducing cardiovascular disease risk.