Everything you need to know to start your carnivore journey with confidence. Learn what to eat, what to avoid, and how to transition successfully.
Don't fear the fat! Choose fatty cuts like 80/20 ground beef and ribeye steaks. Fat is your primary energy source on carnivore and helps you feel satisfied longer. Lean meats alone will leave you hungry and low on energy.Learn about carnivore modes →
The carnivore diet is an all-meat, animal-based eating plan that eliminates all plant foods. As simple as it sounds: you eat animals, you skip plants.
100% animal-based foods. This includes meat, fish, eggs, and optionally dairy. The diet focuses on nutrient-dense animal products that humans have thrived on for millennia.
Commit to at least 30 days for best results. This allows your body to adapt and gives you enough time to experience the potential benefits.
Elimination protocol • 30-90 days
Long-term • More variety
Note: Choose full-fat, low-lactose options. Some people don't tolerate dairy well.
Prioritize Fatty Cuts: Choose 80/20 ground beef over 90/10, ribeye over sirloin, chicken thighs over breasts. Fat provides energy and keeps you satisfied.
Eggs Are Essential: Whole eggs provide complete nutrition with all essential amino acids. Don't skip the yolks—that's where the nutrients are.
Organ Meats Are Optional But Beneficial: While not required, liver and other organs are the most nutrient-dense foods available. Start with small amounts (1-2 oz per week).
Seafood Variety: Fatty fish like salmon and sardines provide omega-3s. Shellfish like oysters are rich in zinc and other minerals.
Dairy Tolerance Varies: Some thrive on dairy, others experience digestive issues. Start strict, then test dairy after 30 days if interested.
Check Processed Meats: Many sausages and deli meats contain plant-based fillers, sugars, or seed oils. Read labels carefully.
The key to delicious carnivore meals is embracing natural meat flavors while using proper techniques. These budget-friendly methods will transform cheap cuts into restaurant-quality meals without expensive ingredients.
Buy chuck roast or beef trim and grind it fresh. This gives you complete control over fat content and texture. Fresh-ground meat has incredible flavor and costs $1-2 less per pound than pre-ground.
Chuck roast costs under $5/lb but has a 2:1 protein-to-fat ratio like ribeye. Slow cook at 250°F until 125°F internal, then sear in a hot pan. This technique makes cheap cuts tender and flavorful.
Unrefined sea salt enhances meat's natural flavor without overpowering it. Salt generously before cooking - it draws out moisture for better browning and concentrates flavor.
A $10 meat mallet transforms tough cuts. Pound chuck, round, or sirloin to break down connective tissue. Makes budget steaks as tender as premium cuts.
Toast and Grind Spices: Buy whole spices and toast them in a dry pan before grinding in a mortar and pestle. This is cheaper and exponentially more flavorful than pre-ground spices.
Fresh Citrus Zest: Lemon or lime zest (just the colored part, not the bitter white pith) adds bright flavor to fish and poultry. Use a microplane grater - one lemon goes a long way.
Problem: Fatigue, headaches, muscle cramps in the first 1-2 weeks.
Solution: Increase salt intake (1-2 tsp per day), stay hydrated, and consider adding electrolytes. Rest more during adaptation.
Problem: Diarrhea or constipation during transition.
Solution: For diarrhea, reduce fat temporarily and increase gradually. For constipation, add more fat and ensure adequate hydration and salt.
Problem: Difficulty navigating restaurants and social events.
Solution: Most restaurants have steak or burger options. Check out our Fast Food Guides for carnivore-friendly options at popular chains.
Problem: Missing variety and flavors from other foods.
Solution: Try different cooking methods (grill, pan-sear, slow cook), experiment with various meat cuts, and if doing relaxed mode, use different seasonings and cheeses.
This guide is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Consult with your healthcare provider before making significant dietary changes, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions.
Browse our collection of simple, budget-friendly carnivore recipes.
View All RecipesUnderstand the difference between Strict and Relaxed carnivore.
Compare Strict vs Relaxed