If you’ve been exploring low-carb diets or seeking a return to ancestral eating, the carnivore diet might have caught your eye. This all-animal-based approach to nutrition is gaining momentum for its simplicity and potential health benefits. The carnivore diet eliminates all plant-based foods, focusing exclusively on meat, fish, eggs, and animal-derived products. Advocates report reduced inflammation, increased mental clarity, and even relief from autoimmune symptoms.
So, what does a carnivore diet meal plan actually look like? Let’s break down a simple and sustainable plan to help you get started.
Basic Guidelines of the Carnivore Diet
Before jumping into the meal plan, here are some key rules to keep in mind:
- Eat only animal-based foods: This includes beef, pork, lamb, poultry, fish, eggs, and animal fats. Some people include dairy like cheese and heavy cream if tolerated.
- No carbs, veggies, or fruits: These are eliminated entirely.
- Salt and water are essential: Electrolyte balance is important, especially in the early stages.
- Listen to your body: Eat when hungry, stop when full.
7-Day Carnivore Diet Meal Plan
Day 1:
- Breakfast: 3 eggs cooked in butter, 3 slices of bacon
- Lunch: Ribeye steak
- Dinner: Grilled salmon with bone marrow on the side
Day 2:
- Breakfast: Omelet with cheddar cheese and ground beef
- Lunch: Chicken thighs with skin, cooked in duck fat
- Dinner: Pork chops with a side of liver
Day 3:
- Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with leftover steak
- Lunch: Canned sardines and hard-boiled eggs
- Dinner: Lamb chops with butter
Day 4:
- Breakfast: Ground beef patties with eggs
- Lunch: Roast beef slices and bone broth
- Dinner: Grilled shrimp with ghee
Day 5:
- Breakfast: Egg and cheese muffins (cooked in muffin tins)
- Lunch: Turkey drumsticks with crispy skin
- Dinner: Bison steak with organ meat on the side
Day 6:
- Breakfast: Fried eggs and leftover lamb
- Lunch: Sardines or mackerel with egg yolks
- Dinner: Slow-cooked oxtail
Day 7:
- Breakfast: Beef liver and eggs
- Lunch: Chicken wings with butter dip
- Dinner: Prime rib roast
Tips for Success
- Meal prep in bulk: Cook larger portions to save time.
- Keep snacks simple: Jerky, boiled eggs, or cold cuts are great on-the-go.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and consider adding electrolytes.
Final Thoughts
The carnivore diet can be a powerful tool for those looking to simplify their eating, eliminate irritants, or kickstart their health journey. While it may not be for everyone, many thrive on this back-to-basics approach. Start with this simple meal plan, listen to your body, and adjust as needed. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting a new diet, especially one as restrictive as carnivore.