EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14\/CBS4) \u2014 The carnivore diet, which involves consuming primarily meat and animal fats, has gained popularity online, but medical experts caution that it may come with health risks. <\/p>\n
Dr. Colby Rich from Texas Tech Health El Paso discussed the potential impacts of this diet on health on Medical Myth Busters. <\/p>\n
Certainly with a carnivore diet when you’re just eating the meat and the sticks of butter, weight loss is probable,” said Dr. Rich. “However, that’s potentially at a cost because you’re not taking in other nutrients like vitamins that are essential for our daily activities, vitamin C and magnesium and folate and things like that.<\/p>\n
Dr. Rich noted that while some individuals may experience weight loss, the diet could lead to nutrient deficiencies and increased levels of LDL, or “bad” cholesterol, due to the high intake of animal fats and lack of fiber. “There are some small studies that show that the LDL, the bad cholesterol in the body goes up a bit just because you’re ingesting all those animal fats and you’re not taking in any fiber,” he said.<\/p>\n
The carnivore diet, which has been around for thousands of years, lacks comprehensive research, according to Dr. Rich. “The research again, like you mentioned, is really scant,” he said, adding that some studies indicate vitamin deficiencies in those following the diet.<\/p>\n
Dr. Rich emphasized the importance of a balanced diet, recommending a Mediterranean diet that includes polyunsaturated fats, lean meats, and occasional carbohydrates. “A well-balanced diet is necessary and that will balance out all those necessary vitamins,” he said.<\/p>\n