Why Can't Humans Eat Raw Meat?

Humans are classified as omnivores but have traits suggesting a meat-heavy diet in our evolutionary past. Our digestive system is relatively short, we produce strong stomach acid, and we require certain nutrients found primarily in animal foods.

Many traditional cultures thrived on meat-based diets with minimal plant foods. The Inuit, Maasai, and Mongolian herders are classic examples. Modern hunter-gatherer studies show most prioritize animal foods when available.

Animal foods provide complete nutrition in bioavailable forms. They contain all essential amino acids, highly absorbable forms of iron and zinc, vitamin B12, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and other critical nutrients.

Everyone's dietary needs and responses differ. What works for one person may not work for another. The carnivore diet is a tool that some people use successfully for various health and performance goals.