This post is a quick look at Dr. Shawn Baker’s book: “The Carnivore Diet”
Dr. Shawn Baker, a former orthopedic surgeon and one of the leading advocates of the carnivore diet, wrote The Carnivore Diet to challenge conventional dietary wisdom and promote an all-meat diet as a means to optimize health, athletic performance, and longevity. The book is structured around the science, history, and practical application of the diet, making it a compelling read for those curious about eliminating plant foods.
1. The Case for Meat-Based Nutrition
Baker argues that animal-based nutrition is superior for human health and that modern dietary guidelines, which emphasize plant-based eating, contribute to chronic diseases like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
He discusses the evolutionary perspective, suggesting that humans thrived as apex predators consuming mostly animal foods.
2. Health Benefits of the Carnivore Diet
Baker presents evidence and anecdotal reports showing improvements in:
- Weight loss
- Mental clarity
- Autoimmune disorders
- Gut health
- Athletic performance
- Mood and energy levels
3. Why Plants May Be Problematic
The book challenges the common assumption that plants are essential for health.
Baker argues that many plant compounds (such as lectins, oxalates, and phytates) can be harmful and that eliminating them may improve digestion and reduce inflammation.
4. Practical Implementation
- Provides guidelines on how to transition to the carnivore diet, including food choices (beef, lamb, pork, seafood, eggs, and dairy for some).
- Discusses common challenges like adaptation symptoms (keto flu, digestion changes) and how to overcome them.
- Covers different variations of the diet, such as strict carnivore (only ruminant meat and salt) vs. more flexible approaches.
5. Debunking Myths
- Baker addresses concerns about cholesterol, fiber, and long-term sustainability, arguing that meat consumption does not inherently lead to heart disease or other chronic conditions.
6. Carnivore for Athletes
- As an elite athlete himself, Baker details how the carnivore diet can enhance strength, recovery, and endurance.
- He shares personal experiences and success stories of athletes who have benefited from this way of eating.
Final Thoughts
The Carnivore Diet is a mix of science, personal experience, and practical advice, advocating for a radical yet simple approach to nutrition. While the book is not heavy on citations from peer-reviewed studies, it provides an engaging argument for those considering the diet.
In this video, Dr. Jordan Peterson talks about his experience with this diet.
