Modified Carnivore Diet: A Beginner's Guide and Meal Plan (2024)

The Modified Carnivore Diet is an adaptation of the traditional carnivore diet, offering a bit more flexibility by allowing the inclusion of certain plant-based foods like fruits and sometimes leafy greens. This version is still primarily focused on animal-based foods like meat and eggs and is high in protein and fats. Due to its low carbohydrate content, it has been a subject of debate within the nutritional community.

A typical shopping list for the Modified Carnivore Diet diet includes grass-fed ground beef, pasture-raised eggs, and a range of fruits such as berries, pineapples, green apples, and bananas. Interestingly, some people like Paul Saladino M.D. have started incorporating fruits into his Modified Carnivore Diet.

This inclusion is not just for variety but has a functional role; the fruits are believed to alleviate issues with electrolytes and enhance insulin signaling at the kidney level. This evolving practice reveals that the Modified Carnivore Diet is not static but is adapting as practitioners share their experiences and understand more about its impact on human health.

Table of Contents

What is the Modified Carnivore Diet?

The Modified Carnivore Diet is a way of eating that focuses primarily on animal products while allowing for some flexibility with plant-based foods. This diet is designed for individuals who desire mastery over their health and nutrition. The main principle of the Modified Carnivore Diet is to consume a high amount of animal products, such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy, while minimizing the intake of carbohydrates and plant-based foods.

The goal is to maximize the consumption of nutrient-dense animal products that provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fats for optimal health. However, unlike a strict carnivore diet, the Modified Carnivore Diet allows for the inclusion of small amounts of plant-based foods, such as low-carb vegetables and fruits, to provide additional nutrients and variety. This flexibility makes the Modified Carnivore Diet more sustainable for long-term adherence while still prioritizing animal-based nutrition.

Who originated the Modified Carnivore Diet?

One person who played a significant role in developing the Modified Carnivore Diet is Dr. Paul Saladino. Dr. Saladino is a physician and advocate of the carnivore lifestyle. He is known for his extensive research in the field of nutrition and his expertise in ancestral health.

Dr. Saladino believes that the consumption of animal-based foods is essential for optimal health and well-being. He has written a book called “The Carnivore Code” where he explores the benefits of a carnivore diet and provides practical guidance for those interested in adopting this lifestyle.

Dr. Saladino’s work has gained significant attention and has been influential in popularizing the Modified Carnivore Diet. His expertise and passion for this dietary approach make him a respected authority in the field.

What are the health benefits of the Modified Carnivore Diet?

The Modified Carnivore Diet offers health benefits such as improved weight management, enhanced mental clarity, and increased energy levels. This diet focuses on high protein and fat intake from animal sources while minimizing carbohydrates, which can result in a range of positive effects on your overall well-being.

  1. Improved Weight Management: The diet promotes weight loss by minimizing carbohydrate intake and emphasizing protein and fat, leading to improved body composition.
  2. Enhanced Mental Clarity: By focusing on nutrient-dense animal products and eliminating processed foods, the diet can improve mental focus and cognitive functions.
  3. Increased Energy Levels: The high-fat content in the diet provides a consistent energy source, preventing the energy crashes often associated with high-carb diets and improving overall stamina and productivity.

What are the health risks associated with the Modified Carnivore Diet?

The Modified Carnivore Diet comes with potential health risks such as nutrient deficiencies, an increased risk of heart disease, and concerns about variety and sustainability. It’s crucial to be aware of these risks when considering this dietary approach.

  1. Nutrient Deficiencies: The exclusion of most plant-based foods may lead to a lack of essential nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals, which can negatively affect overall health.
  2. Increased Risk of Heart Disease: The diet’s emphasis on animal-based saturated fats can elevate cholesterol levels, thereby increasing the risk of heart disease. Monitoring cholesterol levels and consulting a healthcare provider is advised.
  3. Limited Variety and Sustainability: A restricted range of food choices may result in limited dietary diversity, which is crucial for well-rounded nutrition. Additionally, the diet’s heavy reliance on animal products poses sustainability and environmental concerns.

How to do a Modified Carnivore Diet?

The following list outlines 9 steps on how to do the Modified Carnivore Diet.

Modified Carnivore Diet: A Beginner's Guide and Meal Plan (1)

  1. Consult a Healthcare Professional: Before starting the diet, consult with a healthcare provider to ensure it’s suitable for you.
  2. Eliminate Plant-Based Foods: Gradually phase out fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes from your diet.
  3. Incorporate Animal Proteins: Focus on high-quality animal proteins like beef, chicken, fish, and eggs.
  4. Include Fatty Meats: Opt for fatty cuts of meat to provide essential fats and energy.
  5. Add Organ Meats: Include organ meats such as liver for their high vitamin and mineral content.
  6. Consider Dairy: Dairy products like cheese and butter can be included, but be cautious if you have sensitivities.
  7. Avoid Processed Meats: Steer clear of processed meats like sausages and deli slices, focusing on fresh, unprocessed options instead.
  8. Monitor Your Body: Listen to your body and make adjustments as needed to avoid nutrient deficiencies.
  9. Diversify Animal Sources: Make sure to consume a variety of animal-based foods to ensure a well-rounded nutrient profile.

What foods are recommended to eat on the Modified Carnivore Diet?

On the Modified Carnivore Diet, the focus is on high-quality animal products like grass-fed beef, wild-caught fish, and organ meats.

  • Red Meat: Grass-fed beef, lamb, venison
  • Fish and Seafood: Wild-caught salmon, sardines, mackerel
  • Organ Meats: Liver, heart, kidney

What is the grocery list for the Modified Carnivore Diet?

our grocery list for the Modified Carnivore Diet should primarily include animal products like fatty cuts of meat, organ meats, fish, and eggs, along with bone broth and collagen peptides for added nutrition.

  1. Fatty Cuts of Meat: Ribeye steaks, ground beef, pork belly
  2. Organ Meats: Liver, heart, kidney
  3. Fish: Salmon, sardines
  4. Eggs: Preferably free-range or organic
  5. Bone Broth: Beef or chicken bone broth
  6. Collagen Peptides: For added protein and joint support
  7. Seasoning: Salt, pepper, and herbs (avoid seasonings with added sugar or artificial ingredients)
  8. Grill Accessories: Grilling mats, tongs, and meat thermometer for optimal cooking

What foods are restricted on the Modified Carnivore Diet?

On the Modified Carnivore Diet, plant-based foods like oranges, cruciferous vegetables, and legumes, as well as grains and processed foods, are strictly restricted.

  1. Fruits: Oranges, grapes, melons
  2. Vegetables: Cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, bell peppers
  3. Grains and Starches: Quinoa, barley, corn
  4. Processed Foods: Crackers, candy bars, soda
  5. Dairy: Skim milk, flavored yogurt (unless explicitly allowed)
  6. Nuts and Seeds: Cashews, pumpkin seeds
  7. Sugars and Sweeteners: Maple syrup, honey, stevia
  8. Processed Meat: Hot dogs, pepperoni with additives

What is the 7-day meal plan for the Modified Carnivore Diet?

The 7-day meal plan for the Modified Carnivore Diet centers around animal-based foods like meat, fish, and eggs, with the occasional inclusion of limited plant-based foods like low-carb vegetables.

Modified Carnivore Diet: A Beginner's Guide and Meal Plan (2)

Day 1

  • Breakfast: Bacon and eggs
  • Lunch: Ribeye steak and buttered asparagus
  • Dinner: Grilled chicken thighs and cauliflower rice

Day 2

  • Breakfast: Pork sausage and scrambled eggs
  • Lunch: Ground beef with zucchini slices
  • Dinner: Grilled salmon and buttered broccoli

Day 3

  • Breakfast: Smoked salmon and poached eggs
  • Lunch: Chicken liver pate with cucumber slices
  • Dinner: Lamb chops and steamed spinach

Day 4

  • Breakfast: Beef jerky and hard-boiled eggs
  • Lunch: Tuna steak and avocado slices
  • Dinner: Pork belly and sautéed green beans

Day 5

  • Breakfast: Chicken breast and fried eggs
  • Lunch: Beef liver with a side of sautéed mushrooms
  • Dinner: Duck breast and roasted Brussels sprouts

Day 6

  • Breakfast: Turkey sausage and scrambled eggs
  • Lunch: Venison steak and steamed asparagus
  • Dinner: Cod fillet and cauliflower mash

Day 7

  • Breakfast: Sardines and boiled eggs
  • Lunch: Pork chops and sautéed kale
  • Dinner: Grilled shrimp and buttered zucchini

What are the snack options on the Modified Carnivore Diet?

The snack options for the Modified Carnivore Diet primarily include animal-based foods like beef jerky, cheese sticks, and hard-boiled eggs.

  1. Hard-boiled Eggs: Eggs are a great source of protein and healthy fats. Boil a few eggs in advance and keep them handy for a quick and satisfying snack.
  2. Pork Rinds: Crispy and savory, pork rinds make an excellent snack on the Modified Carnivore Diet. They are carb-free and provide a good amount of protein.
  3. Sardines: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, sardines are a nutritious choice for a snack. They are also loaded with protein, making them a perfect option for the carnivore diet.

What is the recommended caloric intake on the Modified Carnivore Diet?

The recommended caloric intake on the Modified Carnivore Diet typically ranges between 1,500 to 2,000 calories per day, depending on individual factors like age, gender, and activity level.

What is the carb content in the Modified Carnivore Diet?

Here’s what you need to know about the carb content in the Modified Carnivore Diet.

  1. Minimal to no carbohydrate intake: The Modified Carnivore Diet restricts carbohydrate consumption to a minimum or eliminates them altogether. This means you’ll be avoiding high-carb foods like grains, fruits, and starchy vegetables.
  2. Emphasis on animal-based foods: The diet mainly consists of animal-based foods such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products. These foods are low in carbohydrates, making them ideal for this diet.
  3. Some flexibility with dairy and eggs: While dairy and eggs are allowed on the Modified Carnivore Diet, they do contain small amounts of carbohydrates. However, these amounts are generally low enough to fit within the confines of the diet’s carb restrictions.

What is the protein content in the Modified Carnivore Diet?

On the Modified Carnivore Diet, around 20-30% of your daily caloric intake is generally recommended to come from protein sources like meat, poultry, fish, and dairy.

What is the fat content in the Modified Carnivore Diet?

In the Modified Carnivore Diet, approximately 60-70% of your daily caloric intake is typically recommended to come from fat sources like fatty cuts of meat, poultry, and fish.

What is the sodium content in the Modified Carnivore Diet?

Sodium levels on the Modified Carnivore Diet can fluctuate, but generally fall within the 2,000 to 3,000 mg per day range, especially when processed meats are consumed or salt is added.

What are the best books recommended for the Modified Carnivore Diet?

The best book recommended for the Modified Carnivore Diet is “The Modified Carnivore Diet: A Controversial Way of Eating: Benefits? Steps To Start & 20 Recipes” by Lu Fau. This book covers the basics of a carnivore diet, its benefits, and how to modify it by adding fruits for additional nutrients and fiber. It is available in Kindle, Hardcover, and Paperback formats.

What apps provide recipes for the Modified Carnivore Diet?

The ‘Carnivore Kitchen app offers a comprehensive collection of recipes tailored for the Modified Carnivore Diet, featuring meals like juicy steaks and bacon-wrapped chicken along with step-by-step instructions. It serves as an excellent resource for anyone looking to diversify their meal options on this diet. This table outlines apps with recipes for the Modified Carnivore Diet.

App NameFeaturesPriceRating
Carnivore KitchenWide recipe rangeFree4.5/5
Meat LoversWeekly meal plan$4.994/5
Carnivore RecipesShopping listFree3.5/5

Who provides the best meal delivery service for the Modified Carnivore Diet?

Crowd Cow is the best meal delivery service for the Modified Carnivore Diet. With over 600 choices, they offer a wide variety of high-quality animal-based food options. Trifecta is a close runner-up, providing complete ready-to-eat meals with a focus on protein-first, organic, grass-fed, and wild-caught ingredients. Butcher Box and Moink Box are also reputable options for ethically sourced meats. Overall, Crowd Cow stands out as the top choice for its variety, quality, and affordability.

What are the best restaurants for the Modified Carnivore Diet?

The best restaurants for the Modified Carnivore Diet are those that specialize in serving high-quality cuts of meat and have a wide variety of options to choose from. Here are five examples of carnivore diet restaurants.

  • The Carnivore’s Den: This restaurant offers a range of grass-fed beef, lamb, and pasture-raised chicken dishes, all cooked to perfection.
  • Meat Lover’s Paradise: Known for its impressive selection of premium steaks and game meats, this restaurant is a haven for carnivore dieters.
  • The Butcher’s Table: With a focus on locally sourced, organic meats, this restaurant provides a unique dining experience with its butcher counter where you can select your preferred cuts.
  • Protein Palace: This carnivore-friendly establishment offers an extensive menu of meat-based dishes, including bison, venison, and wild boar options.
  • Steakhouse Supreme: As the name suggests, this restaurant is dedicated to serving top-quality steaks, including grass-fed, dry-aged, and Wagyu varieties, to satisfy any carnivorous cravings.

Can you have a cheat day on the Modified Carnivore Diet?

No, cheat days are generally not recommended on the Modified Carnivore Diet, but occasional indulgences may be permissible if you opt for higher-quality foods and avoid processed items. It’s crucial to resume the diet immediately afterward to maintain its benefits.

Can you drink alcohol on the Modified Carnivore Diet?

No, alcohol is generally discouraged on the Modified Carnivore Diet as it offers no nutritional value and can interfere with the diet’s key goal of ketosis. Opting for alcohol can also lead to poor food choices, jeopardizing your progress on the diet.

How effective is the Modified Carnivore Diet for weight loss?

Modified Carnivore Diet: A Beginner's Guide and Meal Plan (3)

The effectiveness of the Modified Carnivore Diet for weight loss is not well-studied, and individual results can vary. While some individuals may experience weight loss on this diet due to its restrictive nature and potential calorie deficit, it is important to consider long-term sustainability and nutritional balance for overall health and weight management.

What is the sustainability of the Modified Carnivore Diet?

The sustainability of the Modified Carnivore Diet is limited due to its restricted food variety and potential for nutrient deficiencies. Compared to more balanced approaches like the Mediterranean or Plant-based diets, it may not be as environmentally sustainable or as easy to maintain for extended periods. Long-term adherence could also pose health risks, so regular medical monitoring is advisable.

What makes the Modified Carnivore Diet different from the traditional carnivore diet?

The Modified Carnivore Diet differs from the traditional carnivore diet primarily in its inclusion of certain plant-based foods like fruits and leafy greens, providing additional nutrients and fiber. It also offers more flexibility in food choices, allowing for customization based on individual needs and preferences. Lastly, the modified version is often considered more sustainable for long-term adherence due to its broader nutrient profile.

What exercise recommendations are given for the Modified Carnivore Diet?

To maximize the benefits of the Modified Carnivore Diet, incorporate regular exercise into your routine. Exercise not only promotes overall health and well-being but also complements the dietary changes you’ve made. Aim for a combination of cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and flexibility exercises to achieve a well-rounded fitness routine.

Modified Carnivore Diet: A Beginner's Guide and Meal Plan (2024)
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