The animal-based diet, often used interchangeably with the carnivore diet, revolves around consuming animal products while excluding most plant-based foods. For newcomers, adapting to a life without standard herbs, spices, and condiments can be challenging. However, the use of seasonings is not a black-and-white issue, with different approaches based on individual health goals and tolerance.
The Purist vs. The Pragmatist
There is a notable divide within the animal-based community regarding the use of seasonings. The distinction lies between a 'strict' or 'purist' approach and a more 'flexible' or 'pragmatic' one.
The Strict Carnivore Stance
Strict proponents, such as Dr. Robert Kiltz, advocate for a regimen of only meat, salt, and water, often referred to as the 'lion diet'. The rationale is that eliminating all plant products, including herbs and spices, helps reduce inflammation and potential exposure to plant-based toxins (antinutrients). This total elimination can be particularly beneficial for individuals with autoimmune issues or severe food sensitivities who are using the diet as an elimination protocol. For these individuals, the body's eventual preference for the pure, rich flavor of quality meat, fat, and salt is often reported.
The Flexible Carnivore Stance
Many animal-based diet followers, however, adopt a more flexible approach, believing that minimal additions can make the diet more sustainable without sacrificing its core principles. This allows for a wider range of flavors, which can prevent boredom and reduce the temptation to stray from the diet. The key is to be mindful and selective, focusing on pure, single-ingredient seasonings and avoiding commercial blends that often contain sugars, fillers, and other undesirable additives.
Which Seasonings are Allowed?
For those who choose a more flexible approach, not all seasonings are created equal. The most accepted seasoning is high-quality salt, which is essential for maintaining electrolyte balance on a very low-carb diet.
- Salt: Considered permissible by almost all, salt is crucial for health and also enhances the flavor of meat. Unrefined salts like Himalayan pink salt or Celtic sea salt are often preferred for their trace mineral content.
- Black Pepper: While technically a plant seed, black pepper is often permitted in moderation by flexible followers. Some purists avoid it due to its plant origin.
- Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These can be used sparingly to add flavor, as long as they are pure, single-ingredient versions without anti-caking agents or sugars. Some sources report that a moderate approach permits their use.
- Low-Oxalate Herbs: Some more liberal interpretations allow for fresh herbs like basil, dill, rosemary, and thyme, which are generally low in oxalates.
- Spices for Health Benefits: Turmeric, for instance, is a plant-based spice that some will include in small amounts for its anti-inflammatory properties, though its inclusion is a departure from a strict carnivore approach.
Flavor Enhancers and Cooking Methods
Instead of relying on seasonings derived from plants, many on an animal-based diet turn to animal products and specific cooking techniques for flavor. These methods are fully compliant and can transform a meal.
- Animal Fats: Cooking with fats like beef tallow, lard, or ghee can impart a rich, deep flavor.
- Bone Broth: Using homemade bone broth can add a savory, complex taste to meats and is a great source of minerals.
- Pan Sauces and Gravies: Creating simple, animal-based sauces from pan drippings, melted butter, or heavy cream (if tolerated) can elevate a dish.
- Fermented Dairy: For those who include dairy, things like hard cheeses or kefir can be used to add flavor.
- High-Quality Products: Sourcing high-quality, flavorful cuts of meat from regeneratively-raised or pasture-raised animals can make a huge difference in taste, reducing the need for additional seasonings.
Comparison of Seasoning Approaches
| Feature | Strict Animal-Based Approach | Flexible Animal-Based Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Maximum elimination for healing; testing food sensitivities | Sustainable, flavorful eating with minimal compromise |
| Acceptable Seasonings | High-quality salt only (e.g., Celtic sea salt, Redmond Real Salt) | High-quality salt, black pepper, garlic powder, select herbs like rosemary or basil |
| Rejected Seasonings | All plant-based seasonings and additives | Commercial seasoning blends with sugar or fillers, most condiments |
| Flavor Enhancers | Animal fats, organ meats, bone broth | Animal fats, bone broth, homemade sauces, fermented dairy (if tolerated) |
| Risk of Antinutrients | Minimized to zero | Low, dependent on tolerance and quantity |
| Palatability | Requires adaptation, but taste buds may reset to appreciate natural flavors | More varied and immediately palatable for most people |
Conclusion
The question of can you have seasonings on the animal-based diet? is not universal, but is instead tailored to individual goals and sensitivities. A strict purist adheres to only animal products, salt, and water to maximize the elimination benefits. Conversely, a more pragmatic approach allows for selective, single-ingredient seasonings and creative, animal-based flavor enhancements, making the diet more sustainable and enjoyable. Ultimately, the best path forward is to listen to your body and find the balance that works best for you. For newcomers, beginning with a strict elimination phase and then reintroducing certain seasonings one at a time is an effective way to test personal tolerance.
For more information on the principles and practices of the animal-based diet, consult a reputable source such as the Carnivore Diet Handbook by Dr. Anthony Chaffee.
