Carnivore Diet Food List: The Power of Protein Today!

What Foods Are Suitable for the Carnivore Diet?

Curious about the carnivore diet and what foods it includes? A carnivore diet food list lays out the types of foods you can eat while following this unique eating plan.

From sizzling steaks to savory seafood, the carnivore diet focuses on animal-based foods while excluding most plant-based options.

In this article, we’ll dive into the carnivore diet food list, sharing some tasty samples and highlighting key points to help you feel confident navigating this unique dietary approach.

A piece of paper labeled "MEAL PLAN" surrounded by mushrooms, nuts, eggs, meat, fruits, and vegetables
A piece of paper labeled “MEAL PLAN” surrounded by mushrooms, nuts, eggs, meat, fruits, and vegetables

Table of Contents:

What Is a Carnivore Diet?

Raw fish with tomatoes, carrots, seeds, cheese, and greens around it
Raw fish with tomatoes, carrots, seeds, cheese, and greens around it

The carnivore diet is all about chowing down on animal-based foods while giving the plant-based stuff the cold shoulder.

Unlike those diets that are all about balance and variety, the carnivore diet goes all-in on meat, eggs, and dairy, waving bye-bye to fruits, veggies, and grains.

Proponents swear by the carnivore diet, saying it helps shed pounds, sharpens mental focus, and dials down inflammation.

By loading up on meat, fish, eggs, and dairy, followers of the carnivore diet aim to get all the good stuff from animal products while sidestepping any potential tummy troubles or inflammation triggers.

Carnivore Diet Food List

Various raw meats, fish, shrimp, and vegetables on a table
Various raw meats, fish, shrimp, and vegetables on a table

The Carnivore Diet Food List emphasizes animal-based foods, excluding all plant-based options.

Approved items include meat like beef, ground beef, beef jerky, pork, and poultry, along with fish and seafood. Organ meats like liver and kidney are also allowed.

Dairy products such as cheese and butter are permitted, while eggs are a staple. Processed meats like bacon and sausages can be included but should be limited.

Here’s a comprehensive list of foods that are typically included in a carnivore diet:

Animal Products

Animal products are the cornerstone of the carnivore diet, providing essential nutrients like protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals.

From juicy steaks to succulent poultry, animal products come in a variety of delicious forms.

Opt for high-quality, pasture-raised options whenever possible to maximize nutritional content and support animal welfare practices.

Incorporating a variety of animal products into your meals ensures a well-rounded nutrient intake and adds variety to your carnivore diet foods list.

Here’s a list of animal products you can eat on a carnivore diet:

  • Eggs
  • Bone marrow
  • Lard
  • Bone broth

Fish

Fish is a fantastic addition to the carnivore diet food list, offering a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential nutrients.

Fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines are particularly prized for their omega-3 content, which supports heart health and cognitive function.

Whether grilled, baked, or pan-seared, fish provides a flavorful and nutritious option for carnivores looking to diversify their meals.

Incorporating fish into your carnivore diet adds variety and helps ensure you’re getting a wide range of essential nutrients to support overall health and well-being.

Here’s a list of fish you can eat on a carnivore diet:

Low-Lactose Dairy Products

A notebook surrounded by eggs, raw meat, mushrooms and vegetables
A notebook surrounded by eggs, raw meat, mushrooms and vegetables

While dairy is generally limited on the carnivore diet, some individuals choose to include low-lactose dairy products in their meal plans.

Opting for low-lactose varieties helps minimize potential digestive issues for those who are sensitive to lactose.

However, it’s essential to consume dairy in moderation and monitor how your body responds to ensure it aligns with your dietary goals and preferences on the carnivore diet food list.

Here’s a list of low-lactose dairy products you can eat on a carnivore diet:

  • Butter
  • Heavy cream
  • Hard cheese

Meat

A bowl and plates of raw meat with a meat grinder beside it
A bowl and plates of raw meat with a meat grinder beside it

Meat takes center stage on the carnivore diet food list, providing a rich source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Whether it’s a juicy steak, tender ribs, or succulent pork chops, there’s no shortage of options to satisfy carnivorous cravings.

Aim for a variety of cuts and preparations to keep meals interesting and ensure you’re getting a diverse range of nutrients.

Choosing high-quality, pasture-raised meat whenever possible ensures you’re fueling your body with the best possible nutrition while following the carnivore diet.

Here is a list of meat you can eat on a carnivore diet:

Organ Meats

Organ meats are nutritional powerhouses that deserve a place on the carnivore diet food list.

Liver, heart, and other organ meats are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that are often lacking in muscle meat alone.

Incorporating organ meats into your carnivore diet provides a concentrated source of nutrients like vitamin A, B vitamins, iron, and zinc.

While some may be hesitant to try organ meats, they offer a unique and flavorful addition to your meals, contributing to a well-rounded and nutrient-dense diet for the carnivore diet.

Seafood

Seafood is a valuable addition to the carnivore diet food list, offering a diverse array of nutrients and flavors.

Rich in omega-3 essential fatty acids, iodine, and protein, seafood provides essential support for heart health, thyroid function, and overall well-being.

Whether you prefer flaky white fish, buttery shellfish, or hearty tuna steaks, there’s a seafood option to suit every palate on the carnivore diet consists.

Incorporating seafood into your carnivore meal plan adds variety and nutritional benefits, contributing to a balanced and satisfying carnivore diet.

Seasoning

Raw meat on a wooden board with seasonings, tomatoes, lemon, and herbs around it
Raw meat on a wooden board with seasonings, tomatoes, lemon, and herbs around it

While the carnivore diet primarily focuses on animal-based foods, seasoning can add depth and flavor to your meals without compromising its principles.

Simple seasonings like salt, pepper, and herbs can enhance the taste of meats and seafood, making them more enjoyable to eat.

Opt for unrefined salt varieties like sea salt or Himalayan salt to ensure you’re getting essential minerals along with added flavor.

Experimenting with different seasonings allows you to create a variety of delicious dishes while adhering to the carnivore food list.

Here’s the list of seasonings you can eat on a carnivore diet:

Water

Staying hydrated is essential for any diet, including the carnivore diet. While the focus is primarily on food, water plays a crucial role in supporting overall health and well-being.

Aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and maintain optimal bodily functions.

Whether enjoying a glass alongside your meal or sipping throughout the day, water helps flush toxins from the body and supports digestion.

Make hydration a priority on the carnivore diet by keeping a water bottle handy and drinking regularly to support your health and well-being.

Foods to Avoid on Carnivore Diet

Raw meat with different variations of fruits and veggies
Raw meat with different variations of fruits and veggies

On the Carnivore Diet, certain foods are off-limits to maintain their strict animal-based focus.

These include all plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes.

Additionally, processed foods like snacks and desserts are to be avoided, as well as any beverages other than water.

Sugary items like candies and sweetened beverages are not permitted, along with high-carb foods like bread and pasta.

Alcohol

Alcoholic beverages are off-limits on the carnivore diet due to their carbohydrate content and potential negative effects on health.

While some diets allow for moderate alcohol consumption, the carnivore diet prioritizes animal-based foods and excludes all plant-based options, including alcohol.

Additionally, alcohol can interfere with saturated fat metabolism and may contribute to inflammation and digestive issues.

To stay true to the principles of the carnivore diet and support optimal health, it’s best to abstain from alcohol while following this dietary approach.

Here’s a list of alcohols to avoid on the carnivore diet:

Beverages

Except for water, most beverages are excluded from the carnivore diet.

While these beverages may be common staples in many diets, they are often high in sugar, caffeine, or other additives that do not align with the principles of the carnivore diet.

By focusing on animal-based foods and minimizing intake of other beverages, carnivores can optimize their nutrient intake and support overall health and well-being.

Sticking to water as the primary beverage ensures hydration without compromising the goals of the carnivore diet.

Here’s a list of beverages to avoid on the carnivore diet:

Fruits

A piece of paper with the note "flexitarian diet" surrounded by meat, green apple, potato, nuts, seeds, and veggies
A piece of paper with the note “flexitarian diet” surrounded by meat, green apple, potato, nuts, seeds, and veggies

While fruits are often considered a healthy choice in many diets, they are not permitted on the carnivore diet.

Fruits are rich in carbohydrates, primarily in the form of sugars, which can disrupt ketosis and hinder the body’s ability to burn fat for fuel.

Additionally, fruits contain various compounds, including fiber and phytonutrients, that are not compatible with the carnivore diet’s focus on animal-based foods.

While fruits offer vitamins and minerals, carnivores prioritize obtaining these nutrients from animal products to maintain the dietary principles and achieve desired health outcomes.

Here’s a list of fruits to avoid on the carnivore diet:

  • Apple
  • Berries
  • Oranges
  • Bananas
  • Kiwi

Grains

These plant-based foods are rich in carbohydrates, particularly in the form of starches, which can spike blood sugar levels and disrupt the body’s metabolic state.

Additionally, grains contain compounds such as lectins and phytates, which may contribute to inflammation and digestive issues.

By excluding grains from their diet, carnivores prioritize animal-based foods that provide essential nutrients without the potential negative effects associated with grains.

This ensures they stay true to the principles of the carnivore diet and support their health goals effectively.

Here’s a list of grains to avoid on the carnivore diet:

High-Lactose Dairy

Dairy products high in lactose, such as milk and yogurt, are avoided on the carnivore diet.

Lactose, a type of sugar found in dairy, can cause digestive discomfort for individuals who are lactose intolerant.

While some carnivores may include low-lactose dairy options like cheese and heavy cream in moderation, high-lactose dairy products are generally excluded.

By prioritizing animal-based foods that are low in lactose, carnivores can minimize digestive issues and maintain the principles of the carnivore diet while still enjoying some dairy products.

Here’s a list of low-lactose dairy to avoid on the carnivore diet:

  • Soft cheese
  • Milk 
  • Yogurt

Legumes

A piece of lamb meat accompanied by a bowl of cherry tomatoes, yellow and red peppers, and herbs
A piece of lamb meat accompanied by a bowl of cherry tomatoes, yellow and red peppers, and herbs

Legumes are not compatible with the carnivore diet. These plant-based foods are high in carbohydrates, primarily in the form of starches, which can disrupt ketosis and hinder fat metabolism.

Additionally, legumes contain compounds called lectins and phytates, which may contribute to inflammation and digestive issues.

By avoiding legumes, carnivores prioritize animal-based foods that provide essential nutrients without the potential negative effects associated with legumes.

This ensures they stay true to the principles of the carnivore diet and support their health goals effectively.

Here’s a list of legumes to avoid on the carnivore diet:

  • Beans
  • Chickpeas
  • Edamame
  • Lentils

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are nutrient-dense foods commonly included in many diets, but they are not permitted on the carnivore diet.

These plant-based foods are rich in carbohydrates, primarily in the form of fiber, which can disrupt ketosis and hinder fat metabolism.

Additionally, nuts and seeds contain anti-nutrients such as phytates, which may interfere with mineral absorption and contribute to digestive issues.

By avoiding nuts and seeds, carnivores focus on animal-based foods that provide essential nutrients without the potential negative effects associated with plant-based options.

This ensures they adhere to the principles of the carnivore diet and support their health goals effectively.

Here’s a list of nuts and seeds to avoid on the carnivore diet:

  • Almonds
  • Pumpkin seeds
  • Sunflower seeds
  • Pistachios

Sugars

All forms of sugar, are strictly prohibited on the carnivore diet.

These sources of carbohydrates can spike blood sugar levels and disrupt the body’s ability to enter and maintain ketosis, a metabolic state in which the body burns fat for fuel.

Additionally, sugars provide empty calories devoid of essential nutrients, contributing to weight gain and other health issues.

By eliminating sugars from their diet, carnivores prioritize animal-based foods that provide essential nutrients without the negative effects associated with sugar consumption

Here’s a list of sugars to avoid on the carnivore diet:

  • White sugar
  • Maple syrup
  • Honey
  • Brown sugar
  • Refined sugar

Vegetables

A notebook with the note "Flexitarian Diet" surrounded by raw meat, vegetables, and fruits
A notebook with the note “Flexitarian Diet” surrounded by raw meat, vegetables, and fruits

Contrary to conventional dietary advice, vegetables are excluded from the carnivore diet.

While vegetables are often praised for their nutrient density and health benefits, they contain carbohydrates and fiber that are not compatible with the carnivore diet’s focus on animal-based foods.

By avoiding vegetables, carnivores simplify their diet and eliminate potential sources of digestive discomfort and inflammation.

While vegetables offer vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, carnivores prioritize obtaining these nutrients from animal products to maintain the dietary principles and achieve desired health outcomes.

Here’s a list of vegetables to avoid on the carnivore diet:

For further information on the carnivore diet and related topics, be sure to check out these articles:

Frequently Asked Questions

How Many Times a Day Do Carnivores Eat?

Carnivores typically eat one to two meals per day, depending on individual preferences and hunger levels.

Some may practice intermittent fasting, while others prefer a more structured eating schedule.

Regardless of the frequency, carnivores prioritize nutrient-dense animal-based foods in their meals to fuel their bodies and support their health goals effectively on the carnivore diet food list.

How Long Should I Stay on the Carnivore Diet?

The length of time someone stays on the carnivore diet varies depending on their goals and individual response to the diet.

Some people may choose to follow it short-term for a specific health issue, while others may adopt it as a long-term lifestyle.

It’s essential to listen to your body and make adjustments as needed to support your health and well-being effectively.

What Is the Healthiest Carnivore Diet?

The healthiest carnivore diet is one that prioritizes nutrient-dense animal-based foods, includes a variety of cuts and preparations, and is tailored to meet individual needs and preferences.

By focusing on high-quality meats, seafood, and organ meats, carnivores can ensure they’re getting essential nutrients while minimizing potential sources of inflammation and digestive discomfort.

Listening to your body and making adjustments as needed is key to maintaining healthy bowel movements and a sustainable carnivore diet.

Final Thoughts

In this guide, we’ve explored the carnivore diet food list, covering what to eat and what to avoid in this unique dietary approach.

From savory steaks to nutrient-packed organ meats, the carnivore diet offers a wide range of animal foods to fuel your body and support your health goals.

By prioritizing animal products and excluding most plant-based options, carnivores aim to optimize their nutrient intake and minimize potential sources of inflammation and digestive discomfort.

If you’re curious about trying the carnivore diet or want to learn more about optimizing your health through dietary changes, visit our website for additional resources and support on your journey to better health.