This story is from April 04, 2025

Doctor shares cancer warning against THIS viral no-carb diet form

Doctor shares cancer warning against THIS viral no-carb diet form
The carnivore diet has been a favorite among some popular influencers and enthusiasts in the last few years, who say it can promote weight loss, enhance mood, and stabilize blood sugar levels. But doctors have revealed its possible health dangers.Literal to its name, the carnivore diet is strictly limited and holds only animal-source foods and is zero in carbs. Meats, poultry, eggs, fish, seafood, and milk foods are included in the diet but vegetables, fruits, cereals, beans, seeds, and nuts are completely avoided.Despite some fans of the diet claiming it has advantages, doctors caution that excluding whole categories of foods causes severe health conditions.
Poll
Do you think the carnivore diet is a healthy option for weight loss?

Doctor raises concerns about the viral diet

Dr. Suraj Kukadia, aka Dr. Sooj on social media, voiced his concerns in a TikTok video, reports have said. He was curious as to why so many were on this diet and mentioned its potential risks."Why are so many people following this diet?" he asked on social media, NY Post reported. "Can someone explain it to me because I don't really get it?He described how excessive red meat and processed meat intake, with minimal fibre, fruits, and vegetables, would be likely to increase the risk of bowel cancer.
Most of the people are unaware that higher consumption of red meat, high consumption of processed meat, and a low fibre intake all contribute to a higher risk of bowel cancer, likely a higher risk of other cancers too," he warned.Cancer Research UK attests to this fact by affirming that the consumption of huge quantities of red and processed meats is responsible for about 13% of cases of bowel cancer in the UK. In addition, the failure to eat adequate fibre has been associated with 28% of cases.

Additional health hazards associated with the diet

Outside of cancer, the carnivore diet has also been linked with high cholesterol, which will lead to heart disease and strokes in an individual.

Is it ever beneficial?

Dr. Kukadia accepted that, on the odd occasion, the diet could benefit those with conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), where some foods derived from plants can cause upset. But he assured that the drawbacks far exceed the benefits. "The carnivore diet is essentially a diet of deprivation," he said. "If you stick with it, you're depriving yourself of so many critical nutrients, minerals, and vitamins. I just don't get it. I would never recommend it to a patient."There are no scientifically backed studies that support the health claims of this viral diet's benefits. Most health professionals strongly discourage this diet because it lacks essential nutrients like fibre and antioxidants that play a very important role in maintainting overall health.It is always advisable to seek a medical doctor's opinion if you plan to make such drastic changes in your diet.

author
About the AuthorTOI Lifestyle Desk

The TOI Lifestyle Desk is a dynamic team of dedicated journalists who, with unwavering passion and commitment, sift through the pulse of the nation to curate a vibrant tapestry of lifestyle news for The Times of India readers. At the TOI Lifestyle Desk, we go beyond the obvious, delving into the extraordinary. Consider us your lifestyle companion, providing a daily dose of inspiration and information. Whether you're seeking the latest fashion trends, travel escapades, culinary delights, or wellness tips, the TOI Lifestyle Desk is your one-stop destination for an enriching lifestyle experience.

End of Article
Follow Us On Social Media