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Recently gaining traction in the dietary realm is the ‘pure protein diet,’ often referred to as the carnivore or zero-carb diet. The premise is straightforward: consume only meat and disregard all vegetables, fruits, and other non-meat items.
“Care for a side of defiance with that steak?”
This diet has found a following, particularly among groups like conspiracy theorists, cryptocurrency enthusiasts, and those looking to provoke a reaction from liberals.
Yes, you read that correctly.
The rationale behind this dietary choice stems from the belief that industrial meat production is environmentally harmful. Thus, some conservatives choose to indulge in a juicy ribeye steak precisely because it may ruffle the feathers of those with progressive views. This behavior mirrors other extreme reactions, such as stockpiling firearms when discussions about gun control arise or taking photographs of straws after their ban in restaurants.
Essentially, it’s like saying “Take that, liberals!” but with an added intensity. (And speaking of intensity, some proponents of this diet assert that it enhances libido and testosterone levels. Much to the chagrin of those they deem weak! However, it’s worth noting that high meat consumption has also been linked to lower sperm counts… oops!)
Interestingly, John Durant, a co-creator of the Paleo diet and author of The Paleo Manifesto, has labeled this meat-centric approach as a counter to the “leftist plant-based movement.”
As for the other advocates, including conspiracy theorists and cryptocurrency supporters… continue reading.
Just because you’re skeptical doesn’t mean they’re not out to get you.
“Bitcoin represents a rebellion against fiat [government-backed] currency, just as an all-meat diet symbolizes a rebellion against fiat food,” explains Michael Goldstein, who identifies as a “Bitcoin and meat maximalist” from Austin, Texas. “Once individuals start questioning the deceptions and myths that so-called experts promote in one area, it becomes easier for them to question in other areas too.”
Just going to let that sink in…
So, while this may seem peculiar at first glance, what are its potential benefits and pitfalls?
Proponents of this diet tout benefits such as reduced symptoms of arthritis and depression. Shawn Baker, a former orthopedic surgeon whose medical license has been revoked, claims that chronic diseases can be reversed through this dietary regimen. However, it’s crucial to emphasize that these assertions lack scientific validation.
In fact, Christopher Gardner, a professor of medicine at Stanford University, expresses skepticism about this approach. “Are we talking about T-rexes? African lions? Or humans? If it’s for humans, this sounds like a recipe for disaster on numerous levels,” he shared with The Guardian. “I believe a ‘carnivore diet’ is unsuitable for human health, detrimental to our planet’s wellbeing, exploitative of the workers who prepare meat, and harmful to animal rights and welfare.”
Hold on there, Meat-itarian!
There are numerous nutrients that cannot be adequately absorbed through a meat-only diet, and missing out on essential vitamins can lead to various health issues—scurvy being one notable example. Moreover, there remains a well-documented correlation between animal fats and heart disease.
With all of this in mind, exercising caution seems to be the wisest approach.