Coffee & Carnivore Diet: A New Philosophical Experiment?
Coffee and the carnivore diet may seem like an odd pair, but a growing number of individuals, who tout the benefits of both, have been experimenting with them. Whether this is a just a fad or a potential new way of life is yet to be seen, but one thing is for certain – this is an interesting mix.
The carnivore diet consists of only eating animal-based products such as meat, eggs and dairy while cutting out plant-based products entirely, including fruits and vegetables. Coffee, on the other hand, is a brewed beverage made from roasted coffee beans. Curiously enough, although coffee does contain some trace minerals, caffeine is it’s main component.
On the surface, consuming just animal-products and caffeine does not appear to provide any essential nutrients. However, proponents of the carnivore-coffee combo claim that it provides essential fat-soluble vitamins and minerals, as well as enough protein for muscle growth.
There is certainly no shortage of anecdotal evidence to suggest that those who try out this blend of diet and beverage feel more energized and alert than those who choose to just drink coffee alone. Caffeine is known to be a powerful stimulant, which invigorates both body and mind, while some feel that intense focus gives them the edge they need to perform better during their workouts.
What the Experts Say
Not surprisingly, when it comes to a diet like this, the experts have their reservations. While the carnivore diet has become increasingly popular over the past few years, many experts are quick to point out the potential health risks of reducing or eliminating fruit and vegetable intake. According to registered dietician Alexandra Phillips, “This type of diet is not sustainable and can lead to nutrient deficiency and possibly even long-term health problems.”
Furthermore, while coffee can be a great source of energy and focus, there are also potential side effects associated with excessive consumption. These include Anxiety, insomnia, nausea and headaches, as well as an increased risk for stroke and cardiovascular disease.
What Does the Research Say?
In terms of actual scientific research, there is still much to be done to better understand the effects of the combination of the carnivore diet and coffee. That being said, there are a few studies which shed some light on the subject.
A study published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry investigated the effects of a high-fat diet on mice. The results showed that mice consuming a higher amount of fat had higher levels of mental alertness after consuming coffee.
However, it should also be noted that this study did not look at the effects of the carnivore diet specifically, but rather a high-fat diet in general. Further research is needed to explore the potential effects of this blend of diet and beverage.
What Can We Conclude?
At this point, it appears that the combination of the carnivore diet and coffee is still a bit of a philosophical experiment. While it’s certainly possible to experience some benefits from this combo, such as increased mental alertness, it’s important to keep in mind the potential risks associated with them.
Ultimately, it’s up to the individual to decide if coffee and the carnivore diet are right for them. As with any type of diet or lifestyle change, it’s important to be mindful of the risks and consult a health professional before diving in.
The Downsides of Cutting Out Plant-Based Products
For many, cutting out plant-based products is the biggest challenge when it comes to the carnivore diet. Though some experts argue that this way of eating can in fact provide adequate nutrition, it’s important to note that cutting out a variety of fruits, vegetables, seeds and grains can have a significant impact on your overall health.
From a nutritional perspective, plant-based foods are high in antioxidants, fibre, vitamins and minerals – all of which are important for a healthy diet. Furthermore, plant-based foods are an important source of dietary fibre which helps to reduce inflammation, maintain a healthy gut, and improve cardiovascular health.
The American Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends that adults eat at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables a day, and for those that are following the carnivore diet, it can be very challenging to obtain the necessary nutrients from just animal-based products alone.
The Risk of Over-Consumption of Caffeine
In addition to the potential nutritional deficits associated with the carnivore diet, drinking coffee on this type of diet can be dangerous. Caffeine is a powerful stimulant that can have serious side effects when consumed in large quantities.
Some symptoms of over-caffeination include headaches, trouble sleeping, agitation, nausea and jitters. These side effects can range from mild to severe, depending on the consumption level.
Furthermore, a recent study conducted by Kaiser Permanente found that women who consumed more than 500 mg of caffeine a day, the equivalent of 4-6 cups of coffee, were at an elevated risk for stroke and cardiovascular disease.
Therefore, it’s important to be aware of your caffeine and coffee consumption when following the carnivore diet.
What Does This Mean for The Carnivore Diet?
Though the carnivore diet does have its advantages, it’s important to keep in mind the potential nutritional and health risks associated with it. Adding coffee to the mix only complicates matters further, as it can be difficult to gauge the potential side effects.
When it comes to making a decision, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional before diving in. Risks can vary from person to person and it’s important to understand the possible implications associated with any type of diet or lifestyle change.
Do I Have to Follow the Carnivore Diet to Enjoy Coffee?
Not necessarily. While the combination of coffee and the carnivore diet can be beneficial if used in moderation, those looking to enjoy coffee without having to adopt a restrictive lifestyle can still do so.
The key is to consume coffee in moderation and to include other sources of nutrients and energy in your diet. It’s also important to note that coffee does not provide any essential nutrients itself, so if you’re consuming coffee regularly it’s important to not let it replace other important sources of nutrients.
The Overall Benefits of Drinking Coffee
Though combining coffee and the carnivore diet is a bit of an experiment, drinking coffee in general has a number of potential benefits. Studies have shown that coffee drinkers are at a lower risk for a number of diseases such as diabetes, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Furthermore, coffee can be beneficial for cognitive performance, as it has been found to improve alertness, focus and attention. Regular coffee drinkers have also reported feeling more energized and motivated throughout the day.
Ultimately, the key is moderation. Whether you prefer to drink coffee on the carnivore diet or not, it’s important to be mindful of your consumption level and to understand the potential risks associated with overexposure.
