01/04/2026
If I hear one more athlete asking about the carnivore diet for performance I'm gonna lose it.
Or I'll just send them this post.
NOTE: Based of a narrative REVIEW, i.e. NOT a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials directly examining the effect of the carnivore diet on performance. Basically, "more research is required".
Nevertheless - the current evidence is presented as follows:
Bottom line - yes, there might be some improved fat oxidation - no different to other established low carb diets - but it does NOT infer a performance benefit.
In fact it could HINDER performance by limiting glycogen availability required for high intensity exercise.
Alongside concerns over:
🍓 micronutrient deficiencies
🦠 alterations in the gut microbiota
🥑 changes in the lipid profile
😷 potential effects on eating behaviours
Not something I'd want for myself or my athletes - would you??
