Experts Warn: Carnivore Diet's Kidney Stone Risk Outweighs Benefits
February 22, 2025
Experts from Indiana University School of Medicine warn that the diet's high protein and low fiber content can significantly increase the risk of developing painful kidney stones.
A recent case study revealed that a patient on the carnivore diet showed early signs of kidney stones, with urine analysis indicating a risk for all three major types: calcium oxalate, calcium phosphate, and uric acid.
The medical community remains divided on the carnivore diet, with concerns about its effects on cardiovascular health due to high saturated fat levels from red meat and dairy.
Experts recommend a balanced diet rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals to mitigate the risks associated with extreme diets like the carnivore diet.
Doctors emphasize the importance of a diet rich in fiber and carbohydrates to support gut health and prevent kidney stone formation, contrasting sharply with the carnivore diet.
The carnivore diet, which consists solely of animal products, has gained popularity through social media influencers like Joe Rogan, but it is linked to potential health risks, including kidney stones.
After ceasing the carnivore diet for a year, the same patient was kidney stone-free, highlighting the diet's negative impacts on kidney health.
While some individuals report benefits from the diet, such as weight loss and increased energy, it can also lead to severe side effects like diarrhea and unusual medical conditions.
The case also highlighted the potential risks of the diet, as one patient experienced increased cholesterol levels, leading to severe complications.
Despite the concerns, some experts suggest that the diet may be beneficial for certain individuals, with studies showing improvements in overall health and well-being.
Research indicates that excessive meat consumption raises uric acid levels, which contribute to kidney stone development.
The carnivore diet's popularity has surged on social media, amassing over one billion views on platforms like TikTok, driven by endorsements from high-profile advocates.
Summary based on 2 sources
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
New York Post • Feb 22, 2025
Popular diet followed by Joe Rogan can cause painful kidney stones, experts warn — and that's not all
Daily Mail • Feb 20, 2025
Experts warn weight-loss diet followed by millions can trigger deadly kidney condition