A new trend in dietary approaches is emerging, notably the ‘pure protein diet,’ commonly referred to as the carnivore diet or zero-carb diet. The premise is straightforward: it consists solely of meat, disregarding vegetables, fruits, and any other non-meat food items.

“Would you like a touch of defiance with your steak, sir?”

This diet has gained traction, particularly among groups like conspiracy theorists, enthusiasts of Bitcoin, and individuals who enjoy provoking progressive ideologies.

Yes, you read that correctly.

The rationale behind this movement often ties to the anti-environmental impact of industrial meat production. Some conservatives choose to indulge in a ribeye steak specifically because it might irk those with more progressive values. It’s reminiscent of extreme reactions, such as stockpiling firearms in response to discussions about gun control or taking pictures of plastic straws post-ban in restaurants.

Essentially, it’s a hyperbolic “Take that, liberals!” (And speaking of hyperbole, many advocates of this diet assert that it can enhance libido and testosterone levels. A bold statement, indeed! However, it’s worth noting that excessive meat intake is also linked to lower sperm counts… oops.)

Furthermore, one of the founders of the Paleo diet, John Durant, author of The Paleo Manifesto, has labeled this diet as a counter-movement to the “left-wing push for plant-based eating.”

As for the other supporters, including conspiracy theorists and Bitcoin aficionados… stay tuned.

Just because you’re paranoid doesn’t mean they’re not out to get you.

“Bitcoin challenges traditional fiat money, and an all-meat diet is a challenge to fiat food,” explains Michael Goldstein, a self-proclaimed “Bitcoin and meat maximalist” based in Austin, Texas. “Once someone learns to see through the myths and lies in one area, it becomes easier to recognize them in others.”

Just leaving that thought here…

So, given its peculiar nature, what about the potential benefits and risks?

Proponents of this diet tout benefits like reduced arthritis and depression symptoms. Shawn Baker, a former orthopedic surgeon whose medical license was revoked, asserts that lifelong illnesses can be reversed through this dietary approach. However, it’s crucial to highlight that these assertions lack scientific backing or rigorous study.

Indeed, Christopher Gardner, a medicine professor at Stanford University, expresses skepticism about this diet. “Are we talking about T-rex? African lions? Or humans? If it’s for humans, this sounds disastrous on many fronts,” he remarked to The Guardian. “I believe a ‘carnivore diet’ is unsuitable for human health, detrimental to our planet’s wellbeing, exploitative of the human labor involved in meat preparation, and harmful to animal rights.”

Hold your horses, Meat-itarian!

There are numerous essential nutrients that cannot be obtained solely from meat consumption. Likewise, a lack of key vitamins can lead to various health issues—scurvy being just one of the potential ailments. Moreover, a well-documented relationship exists between animal fats and heart disease.

With all this in mind, exercising caution seems to be the wisest course of action.