Subjective Experiences And Blood Parameter Changes Of Individuals From Germany Following A Self Prescribed Carnivore Diet

This German study examined what happens when people adopt a "carnivore diet" - an eating pattern that excludes virtually all plant foods and focuses exclusively on animal products like meat, fish, and eggs. Researchers surveyed 23 adults who had followed this diet for at least one month, collecting both questionnaire responses about their experiences and blood test results from before and after starting the diet.

The participants were primarily motivated by health concerns, with 65% having at least one diagnosed medical condition before starting the carnivore diet. Most reported subjective improvements in how they felt after adopting this eating pattern. However, the blood tests revealed a concerning trend: while most health markers remained stable, both total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol (often called "bad" cholesterol) increased significantly. Total cholesterol rose from an average of 228 mg/dl to 305 mg/dl, and LDL cholesterol increased from 161 mg/dl to 257 mg/dl.

These findings present a complex picture for anyone considering a carnivore approach. While participants felt better subjectively, the substantial increases in cholesterol levels raise important questions about long-term cardiovascular health. It's worth noting this was a small study of just 23 people and hasn't been peer-reviewed yet, so the findings should be interpreted cautiously.

For clinical practice, this research highlights the importance of regular blood monitoring for patients following extreme dietary patterns. While some people may experience short-term benefits from a carnivore diet, the cholesterol changes suggest this approach requires careful medical supervision and individualized risk assessment, particularly for cardiovascular health.