THE CARNIVORE DIET BENEFITS
Living with lupus can make every single day a challenge. You’re constantly dealing with symptoms ranging from joint pain to fatigue, confusion, depression, and more.
Being diagnosed with this chronic autoimmune condition can turn things upside down - but you have more control over managing the disease than you may realize. Dietary adjustments can make a big difference in how you feel.
Today, we’ll make the case for trying the carnivore diet for lupus management. While it’s a radical shift from traditional dietary norms, that may be what it takes to regain a sense of normalcy in your life.
It makes sense when you think about it. The carnivore diet eliminates many potential triggers and reduces inflammation, all while improving mental clarity and supporting weight management. There are a number of carnivore diet benefits that make it a compelling choice.
Learn more about trying a lupus carnivore diet below, including how it works and carnivore diet meal ideas to ease the transition. It’s time to shake loose the grip lupus has taken on you!
Background on Carnivore Diet and Lupus
Before we get into how a lupus carnivore diet can help we need to take a step back and explain what this condition is and some of the carnivore diet rules. This will give you a better understanding of why it’s a great choice for managing the condition.
What is Lupus?
This is a complex autoimmune disease in which your body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues and organs instead of protecting them.
This creates inflammation throughout the body that can lead to pain, swelling, and tissue damage. It can take a toll on just about any part of the body - joints, skin, kidneys, heart, lungs, and even the brain.
Lupus tends to cycle through flare-ups and remission. As you can imagine (or may have already realized firsthand), the flare-ups bring more intense symptoms that can prevent you from doing even the simplest tasks.
Remission provides a greater sense of calm where you can catch your breath, but symptoms will likely always be present to some degree.
Many say it’s the unpredictability of flare-ups that makes this disease so brutal. Let’s take a closer look at what those symptoms entail and a few different types of lupus.
Symptoms and Types of Lupus
Common Symptoms of Lupus
- Fatigue: Persistent tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest.
- Joint Pain and Swelling: Pain, stiffness, and swelling, often in the hands, wrists, and knees.
- Skin Rashes: A butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose is most common, though other skin rashes and sensitivity to sunlight may occur.
- Fever: Low-grade fevers with no obvious cause are often correlated to lupus flare-ups.
- Organ Involvement: The kidneys, lungs, and heart may be affected and could experience serious complications.
Types of Lupus
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): The most common and serious form. It affects multiple organs and can cause widespread inflammation and damage.
- Cutaneous Lupus: Primarily affects the skin, causing rashes, lesions, and increased sun sensitivity.
- Drug-Induced Lupus: Certain medications can trigger lupus-like symptoms, which usually subside when the medication is discontinued.
- Neonatal Lupus: A rare condition affecting newborns, usually linked to antibodies from the mother with autoimmune issues. It’s usually temporary as most infants fully recover.
Introducing the Carnivore Diet
Now, what is the carnivore diet? Perhaps a better question, what can you eat on the carnivore diet? As the name suggests, you’ll eat strictly meat and a select few other animal-based products on this regimen.
That includes steaks, chicken, pork, fish, eggs, and in some cases, milk on carnivore diet or cheese on carnivore diet. So, can you eat nuts on carnivore diet? Nope - no plant-based foods at all. That means no veggies, fruits, seeds, legumes, grains, or anything else for that matter.
All that being said, is carnivore diet healthy? Why would you try something so radical and exclusionary? There are quite a few carnivore diet autoimmune benefits specifically, but there are many reasons to take a chance on this regimen even as a healthy person.
The philosophy is centered on two main tenets: reducing dietary triggers and promoting gut health. Many plant-based foods contain compounds that can irritate the gut lining or trigger inflammation in sensitive individuals. Eliminating these can reduce inflammation.
You should read more about the pros and cons of carnivore diet, as there are potential downsides to navigate - along with a suite of other benefits we haven’t even mentioned yet. But let’s narrow our focus specifically to the carnivore diet for lupus.
Why Should You Try the Carnivore Diet for Lupus?
You’ll find a lot of conflicting information as to whether or not a lupus carnivore diet is a good idea. Some say it won’t bring about any positive changes, while others say it saved their life.
So, does the carnivore diet work for lupus or not? We’re here to help you cut through the noise - here’s what you need to know about the carnivore diet lupus connection.
Potential Reduction in Inflammation
The primary reason people report an improvement in symptoms is due to the carnivore diet inflammation link. We know that lupus is characterized by inflammation and that some plant-based foods can exacerbate inflammation.
Thus, it makes sense that a diet that could potentially reduce sources of inflammation, while supporting a healthier inflammatory response as a whole, could make a dramatic difference in the frequency of lupus flare-ups and severity of symptoms.
More specifically, the carnivore diet helps you steer clear of anti-nutrients like lectins, oxalates, and certain carbohydrates. The vast majority of foods you eat are anti-inflammatory by nature, but especially those high in omega-3 fatty acids like fish.
Possible Gut Health Benefits
We have an entire guide on the correlation between carnivore diet and gut health because it’s that important. How does it play a role in supporting a healthier, happier life after a lupus diagnosis though?
If you don’t already know, the gut is connected to just about every other aspect of your body - including the immune system. As a matter of fact, some say that more than 70% of the immune system resides in the gut.
The carnivore diet reduces gut irritants as we explained earlier, which can create a sense of balance in the gut. Eliminating fiber, plant lectins, and other compounds may give the gut lining a chance to heal, potentially improving digestive symptoms and reducing systemic inflammation.
There’s more to it, though. A healthy gut microbiome discourages the growth of harmful bacteria that thrive on sugar and fiber, which are absent in this diet.
As a result, many report less bloating, gas, and digestive discomfort when they make the switch over to carnivore. This is why we also recommend the carnivore diet for IBS or ulcerative colitis.
Nutrient Density and Bioavailability
So many of the complaints lobbied at the carnivore diet is that you aren’t getting enough nutrients with an absence of plant-based foods.
We’d argue the opposite - you’re getting all the most important nutrients in their most bioavailable form when you follow a well-structured carnivore diet plan!
As it pertains to the carnivore diet for lupus, you’re getting some of the most powerful immune-boosting nutrients like vitamin A, folate, and choline. These not only bolster your immune system but support cellular repair and mental clarity.
Mental Clarity and Mood Stability
Living with lupus can be mentally and emotionally challenging as you find yourself struggling to focus and maintain your cool amidst painful, irritating flare-ups. Fortunately, a lupus carnivore diet may be able to help.
Many people feel more mentally clear on a carnivore diet, which could be due to the diet’s elimination of inflammatory foods and ability to stabilize blood sugar levels. This means you may be waving goodbye to that frustrating brain fog and mood swings before you know it!
Animal-based diets are high in essential fats that support brain health, including omega-3 fatty acids, which are linked to mood regulation. Without the blood sugar spikes and crashes that come from a high-carbohydrate diet, some people feel more balanced and clear-headed.
Weight Stability and Reduced Bloating
The carnivore diet for weight loss is actually one of the most common reasons people get started on this regimen, but how does this relate to lupus management?
Lupus and its treatments can lead to weight fluctuations, often causing unexpected weight gain or loss. But, the carnivore diet can help you maintain a stable weight without constant hunger or the need to track calories.
You’re eating mostly protein and fats which are known to promote satiety - or a feeling of fullness. We already touched on how the diet can reduce bloating as well since you’re cutting out carbs and fiber, leading to less digestive discomfort and a flatter stomach.
Potential Downsides of a Lupus Carnivore Diet
Any diet has its downsides, and despite the benefits of carnivore diet for lupus, there are a few carnivore diet side effects you need to be aware of before embarking on this journey. These include fatigue, headaches, or digestive upset as your body adapts to burning fat for fuel.
Fortunately, these will subside over a few weeks as your body adapts. This interim period is known as the “carnivore flu.” It can be mitigated through a methodical transition, as we’ll discuss below momentarily.
There are some concerns surrounding nutritional gaps, too. While you get plenty of great nutrients through meat alone, you will be missing out on plant-based nutrients like fiber, vitamin C, and certain antioxidants.
This is why you need to make sure you’re prioritizing variety in your carnivore diet food list, including organ meats. These contain nutrients you won’t get through other animal-based sources. You can also consider carnivore diet supplements or a modified carnivore diet.
Of course, there will be some social and practical challenges. The diet can be a bit restrictive, especially when eating out or attending social events. It’s more expensive than eating plant-based food, too.
However, we believe the difference you’ll feel from the carnivore diet before and after starting it will be more positive than negative. Why not try a 30-day carnivore diet meal plan and see for yourself, though? We’ll share tips on how to start the carnivore diet below.
Tips on Starting a Lupus Carnivore Diet
We won’t beat around the bush, making the transition to carnivore diet from a traditional American diet can be a dramatic shift. It doesn’t have to be daunting, though. Here are some ways you can make it smoother and more manageable.
Start With Eliminating Processed Foods First
The worst thing you can do is cut out all plant-based foods cold turkey. This will cause more severe carnivore flu symptoms. Instead, begin by eliminating all processed foods while still enjoying some fruits, vegetables, and grains in moderation.
Processed foods are the most problematic from the perspective of lupus management as they’re loaded with additives, preservatives, and other ingredients that may exacerbate inflammation and potentially worsen symptoms.
After a few days, you can start to weed out more food groups. Take your time to make the transition over a 7 to 10-day period, and you will find the transition a bit more comfortable.
Managing Early Adaptation Symptoms
Even with a slow, methodical approach, you may experience those carnivore flu symptoms we referenced. We encourage you to stay on track and weather the storm.
Remember, fatigue, headaches, and digestive changes are normal as your metabolism shifts from using carbs to burning fat for energy. They’ll subside within a week or two at most, and you’ll be far better off in the long run.
Beyond a gradual transition, you should make sure you’re staying hydrated and getting plenty of rest. These techniques will mitigate the adaptation symptoms as much as possible.
Addressing Cravings With Healthy Snacks
One thing so many new carnivore dieters struggle with is cravings. Most of the snacks you’ve come to know and love are no longer fair game.
While boiled eggs, cheese, and beef jerky may have their place, they can get a bit dull. You need more exciting carnivore diet snacks. Your search ends here at Carnivore Snax, with our highly touted meat chips.
They’re carefully crafted from the finest meat in America, ethically sourced from elite regenerative farms. With only two ingredients (meat and salt), they’re the best low carb snacks you can get your hands on.
Plus, they taste amazing. They’ve even been referred to as meat pastries for the way they melt in your mouth after the initial airy crunch, giving way to tantalizing flavors. We have a variety for every palate, too:
Try our carnivore chips today and see what keeps our customers coming back for more. Coping with cravings just got a lot easier!
Rounding Out Your Meal Plan for a Variety of Nutrients and Flavors
Though carnivore is simple by design, adding variety in meats and preparation methods can make it more enjoyable and help you cover a range of nutrients.
This involves eating a wide range of meats - not just the best meat for carnivore diet like steaks and ground beef, but chicken, pork, lamb, and game meats like elk or venison. Make sure you’re getting fish in your diet as well.
You need to take a chance on organ meats, too. Liver and heart are nutrient-dense and can provide vitamins (such as A, B12, and folate) that help support the immune system. They're non-negotiable on a lupus carnivore diet, as hard to stomach as they may be.
Beyond a diverse list of food sources you can switch up cooking methods to keep things fresh and fun. Grill, bake, broil, or slow-cook to keep meals interesting and flavorful.
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Maintaining Electrolyte Balance and Other Supplements to Consider
Electrolyte balance is crucial when you’re on a low-carb, high-protein diet, especially in the early stages of carnivore. Your body may excrete more sodium, potassium, and magnesium as it adjusts. If left unchecked this can lead to dehydration or muscle cramps.
Drinking more water isn’t going to be enough. You need to infuse your water with electrolyte supplements, or if nothing else, a pinch of salt. Be generous in cooking with salt as well.
Bone broth naturally contains minerals and can be a great addition to maintain hydration and electrolyte levels. It’s also a great addition to your dietary regimen.
What to Track and Monitor While on Carnivore
Starting the carnivore diet for lupus is a great step in the right direction, but that doesn’t mean it will work for everyone. You should make sure you’re tracking a few key things to gauge the success of your dietary adjustments and make changes as needed:
- Energy Levels and Mood: Notice changes in energy and mental clarity - many people on carnivore report improvements here over time.
- Lupus Flare-Ups or Symptoms: Track any patterns in your lupus symptoms to see if the diet is impacting flare frequency or severity.
- Body Composition and Weight: For those aiming for weight stability or gain, it’s helpful to track weight to make sure you’re meeting your goals.
- Digestive Health: Note any changes in digestion, such as reduced bloating or changes in bowel habits, which can indicate how your gut is responding.
Be patient, as it can take you up to 30 days to find a new baseline for health after following a standard American diet for your whole life. But, don’t continue pushing through the diet past that point if it’s not working. You’ll need to make changes.
More Ways to Manage Lupus Beyond Dietary Adjustments
Whether you’re trying the carnivore diet for women or men, we hope these tips help you make the most of a lupus carnivore diet! We want to leave you with a few more tidbits below before wrapping up our carnivore diet lupus guide:
- Manage Stress: Practice mindfulness, breathing exercises, or gentle activities to reduce flare-up risks.
- Prioritize Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours nightly to support immune function and reduce inflammation.
- Exercise Gently: Low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or stretching can help maintain joint flexibility without strain.
- Limit Sun Exposure: Protect skin from UV exposure with clothing or sunscreen to prevent flare-ups.
- Regular Medical Check-Ups: Routine check-ins help monitor symptoms and adjust treatment for optimal management.
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But, the only thing left to do now is set yourself up for success following the carnivore diet for lupus with our healthy, delicious snacks - order today as we leave you with a few closing thoughts.
Wrapping Up Our Carnivore Diet Lupus Guide
That does it for our guide on carnivore diet and lupus. While this condition can certainly take a toll on your day-to-day life with flare ups leaving you feeling miserable, you have more control over symptoms than you may realize.
A lupus carnivore diet can target inflammation, provide nutrient-dense support, and reduce potential dietary triggers - along with a variety of other benefits. Weigh the pros and cons and see firsthand how carnivore diet for lupus can help.
You should now feel clear on your next steps, including finding snacks you actually enjoy. So, head over to Carnivore Snax and discover nutrient-dense options to support your journey.
