Your Ultimate Beginner's Guide to Starting the Carnivore Diet
- V DuPree
- Nov 20, 2024
- 4 min read

So, you’ve heard the buzz about the carnivore diet—just meat, fish, eggs, and basically no veggies—and you’re thinking, "Is this real? Can I actually live on steak and bacon without turning into a walking greaseball?" Spoiler alert: you can, and in fact, it could change your life. But let’s break it down, step by step, so you don’t have to dive headfirst into the meat pool without a life raft.
What is the Carnivore Diet?
It’s as simple as it sounds: it’s a diet that cuts out everything except animal-based foods. That means steak, chicken, fish, pork, eggs, and for some of you, dairy (if you can handle it). No plants, no grains, no fruits—just pure, meaty goodness. Think of it like the ultimate version of KISS - "keep it simple, stupid" (Baker, 2018).

Why Choose the Carnivore Diet?
Now, you might be wondering why anyone would choose this way of eating. Fair question. The main draw? It can potentially help with everything from weight loss and clearer skin to increased energy and mental focus (Saladino, 2020). If you’re someone who’s been on the yo-yo diet rollercoaster, this can feel like the straight path to freedom. It’s not just about looking good—it’s about feeling better, too. Studies have shown that a diet focused on animal products can reduce inflammation, stabilize blood sugar, and even improve mood (WebMD, 2023).
What Can You Eat on the Carnivore Diet?
Okay, here’s your new grocery list:
Meats: Beef (steaks, ground beef, etc.), chicken, pork, lamb, and any other critter you like to chew on.
Fish and Seafood: Salmon, shrimp, sardines—if it swims, it’s fair game.
Eggs: They’re basically nature’s perfect snack. Scrambled, fried, hard-boiled—whatever.
Dairy (Optional): If your body can handle it, cheese, butter, and heavy cream are all good.
Think of it like a meat lover’s dream. Basically, if it came from an animal, it’s on the menu.

What to Avoid on the Carnivore Diet?
No plants. No fruits. No grains. No processed foods. No sugar. Yup, that means you can’t munch on salads, dip your fries in ketchup, or grab a granola bar for a snack. It’s all about sticking to the purest of pure: animal products.
How to Start the Carnivore Diet (Step-by-Step):
Here’s your easy guide to making the leap into full-blown carnivory:
Prepare Mentally: Before you start, remind yourself that this is a big shift. It’s not just cutting out carbs; it’s flipping your entire idea of what a "meal" looks like.
Clean Out Your Pantry: Time to say goodbye to all those carb-loaded snacks. Out with the chips, pasta, bread, and fruit. If it has sugar or comes from a plant, toss it (or donate it to a friend who doesn’t mind a carb-filled lifestyle).
Stock Up on Carnivore-Friendly Foods: Hit the butcher, not the produce aisle. Buy lots of meat, fish, eggs, and maybe some butter or cheese if you’re into dairy. Plan for simple meals to start—just throw a steak on the grill or scramble some eggs with bacon.
Start Simple: Don’t overthink it. Try to keep things as easy as possible. Steak and eggs, bacon and eggs, ground beef and butter—repeat. You get the idea.
Hydration and Electrolytes: Water is your best friend, but don’t forget your electrolytes. You might feel a bit sluggish at first, so adding a pinch of salt to your food or drinking mineral water can help keep you feeling energized (Saladino, 2020).
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them:
Let’s be real—switching to a carnivore diet can come with its bumps. Here’s what you might face:
Cravings: In the beginning, your body might cry out for carbs. "I need a piece of bread!" it’ll scream. But trust me, it gets easier. Stick with it, and your cravings will settle down as your body adjusts.
Digestive Adjustments: Some people experience constipation or other digestive issues when they first cut out fiber. Keep it simple and try to stay hydrated. If things get uncomfortable, try adding some more fatty cuts of meat to your meals.
Social Situations: So, you’re at a dinner party, and everyone’s munching on pasta. What do you do? Don’t panic. You’re allowed to bring your own carnivore-friendly snacks, or politely ask for a meat-based option if they’re cool with it. If all else fails, smile and nod, knowing you’re eating for health—not for peer pressure (WebMD, 2023).

Tracking Your Progress:
This diet can be a game-changer, but only if you give it time. Keep a journal, track your energy levels, mental clarity, and any physical changes you notice. This will help you see the positive effects (because trust me, they’re coming).
Is the Carnivore Diet for Everyone?
This way of eating might not be for everyone. If you’ve got specific medical conditions, or if you just really love your veggies, it might be worth chatting with a healthcare professional first. The point here is to listen to your body and do what feels right for you (Baker, 2018).
Final Tips for Success:
Patience is Key: The first week can feel weird, but give it time. Your body is adjusting, and once it does, you’ll start to see real benefits.
Simplicity Rocks: Don’t stress about making gourmet carnivore meals. Keep it simple—meat, eggs, and fat. Done.
Quality Matters: Go for grass-fed, pasture-raised, and wild-caught whenever possible. Your body will thank you.
Conclusion:
So there you have it—your beginner’s roadmap to conquering the carnivore diet. It’s a big step, but it’s also an exciting one. Embrace the simplicity and the power of animal-based foods, and don’t forget to have fun with it. Before long, you’ll be feeling healthier, stronger, and maybe even a little bit smug about all the people still battling with bread cravings. Happy carnivoring!
Sources:
Baker, S. (2018). The Carnivore Diet. Victory Belt Publishing.
Saladino, P. (2020). The Carnivore Code: Unlocking the Secrets to Optimal Health by Returning to Our Ancestral Diet. Hachette Books.
WebMD. (2023). Carnivore Diet: Health Benefits and Risks. Retrieved from WebMD.