I Ate Only Meat for 90 Days – Here’s What Happened

Hey there, fellow health explorers! As a South African keto coach, I’ve ventured into various diets, but my recent 90 day journey on the carnivore diet has been a wild ride. From transforming my blood markers to embracing nose-to-tail nutrition with supplements like Revive Raw electrolytes, Lifr Kudu Liver capsules, and more, I’m excited to share my experience and insights with you. Grab a cup of coffee and let’s dig in! (Yes, I still drank coffee. You can report me to the Carnivore police).

The Bloodwork Breakdown: Before and After 90 Days of Carnivore

Let’s dive into the numbers first, shall we? Here’s how my blood test results shifted after 90 days on the carnivore diet:

• Cholesterol & Lipid Profile: My total cholesterol and LDL levels were slightly elevated initially (5.6 mmol/L and 3.8 mmol/L, respectively) but saw a minor dip to 5.4 mmol/L and 3.6 mmol/L. The big win? My HDL, the “good” cholesterol, climbed from 1.4 to 1.5 mmol/L, and triglycerides dropped from 0.8 to 0.66 mmol/L. The HDL to total cholesterol ratio stayed in check, and the S-Non HDL cholesterol reduced, showing a healthier lipid balance.
• Blood Sugar & Insulin Sensitivity: My HbA1c, a marker of blood sugar over the past few months, improved from 5.6% to 4.4%, moving from borderline high to smack dab in the “healthy” range. Less sugar, less insulin – all the good stuff!
• Kidney Function: My eGFR (kidney function) showed a reassuring improvement from >91 to >105 mL/min/1.73 m², proving that all that meat wasn’t overloading my kidneys.
• Thyroid Health: My thyroid markers (TSH and FT4) stayed within the normal range, indicating that despite cutting out plant foods, my thyroid is in good shape.

You can view my full blood results posted on my Instagram page here:

https://www.instagram.com/p/C_dLkvyowbT/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Supplements to the Rescue: A Nose-to-Tail Approach

On the carnivore diet, I wanted to ensure I got all the essential nutrients, especially as I don’t eat seafood (a girl can only handle so much fishy flavor). Enter my trusty companions:

• Revive Raw Electrolytes: Keeping up with electrolytes is crucial, especially when you cut out carbs. Revive has been my go to electrolytes for years and the “Raw” option having no sweeteners is perfect for a carnivore lifestyle. (Discount code KIMSKETO365)
• Lifr Kudu Liver Capsules: Because, let’s be honest, liver isn’t exactly everyone’s cup of tea. These capsules were a great way to get in those vital nutrients without having to think twice about taste. (Discount code KIMSKETO365)
• Ovo Egg White Protein Powder: A lifesaver for protein-packed coffee and a great addition to recipes keep my protein levels up. Perfect for those times I needed a break from another steak. (Discount code KIMSKETO365)
• Grass-Fed Meats from Hope Meats: It’s not just about the steak! From organ meats to filler free patties and sausages, Hope Meats was my go-to for quality, ethical options.
• Lugol’s Iodine: Since I don’t eat seafood, Lugol’s Iodine became essential for thyroid support. It’s all about filling the gaps while respecting my taste buds!

The Struggles Are Real: Carnivore Challenges

1. Social Situations: Let’s face it; telling people you only eat meat can make you the odd one out at a braai or dinner party. It takes some finesse to politely decline those potato salads or dessert offers. A little prep work, like bringing your own biltong or explaining your “meat mission,” goes a long way. Restaurants actually tend to be easier because I would just order a steak no marinade.
2. Monotony: Eating meat day in and day out can get repetitive. I found it helpful to get creative – think bone marrow, oxtail stew, or crispy lamb ribs. It’s all about finding new ways to enjoy the same basic ingredients!

Tips for Carnivore Newbies: Navigating the Meat Maze

1. Eat Enough Fat: Many of you will be coming from diets where you haven’t eaten a lot of fat. Fats are essential for feeling good on a carnivore diet so don’t be scared of them. I used a 1:1 fat to protein ratio.
2. Hydrate and Electrolytes: Stay ahead of the game with electrolytes like Revive Raw. And don’t forget water – dehydration is a common pitfall. You also need sufficient magnesium and hydration to avoid constipation.
3. Experiment with Cuts and Types of Meat: To avoid boredom, try different cuts, textures, and preparation methods. I tried to include more than one thing with each meal for different textures for example steak with some halloumi cheese.
4. Listen to Your Body: Some days you may crave more fat; other days, more lean protein. Pay attention to your body’s signals and adjust accordingly. If you’re having meat aversion fast a bit.
5. Find a Support System: Whether it’s a Facebook group like mine, a friend on the same journey or a local community, having people on the same path can make a world of difference.

Who Should Try the Carnivore Diet?

The carnivore diet can be a game changer for those with autoimmune conditions, persistent skin issues like eczema, or inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). If you’ve struggled with symptoms like brain fog, joint pain, or chronic fatigue that don’t seem to improve with traditional diets, going carnivore might help. People with insulin resistance, PCOS, or type 2 diabetes have also reported better blood sugar control and weight management. Even those dealing with anxiety or mood disorders may find mental clarity and emotional stability through the simplicity of an all meat menu.

Final Thoughts: Embracing the Carnivore Lifestyle

While the carnivore diet isn’t for everyone, it certainly offered me some surprising benefits, from improved blood sugar control to enhanced mental clarity. The key takeaway? Your body is your best guide. For anyone considering this path, start with small steps, keep an open mind, and remember that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach.

So, are you ready to try carnivore? Or are you just curious about how eating more meat could change your health? Whatever your starting point, I hope my journey inspires you to think outside the (bread) box and discover what works best for your unique self. Now, excuse me while I go cook up some lamb chops!

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Until next time, stay curious and keep thriving!

P.S. Don’t forget to leave your comments or share your experiences with the carnivore diet below. Let’s learn from each other’s meat mania!