The Carnivore Pioneers: Influencers and Podcast Hosts
The modern carnivore diet movement gained significant traction through high-profile figures who openly shared their experiences. Arguably the most famous proponent is podcast host and comedian Joe Rogan, who has discussed his carnivore challenges with millions of listeners. In one 30-day attempt, he reported shedding 12 pounds, losing belly fat, and seeing improvements in his vitiligo, though he did endure some initial digestive issues. Political commentator and psychologist Jordan Peterson, alongside his daughter Mikhaila Peterson, also propelled the diet into the mainstream. Mikhaila was an early and strict adherent, claiming the diet helped manage severe autoimmune conditions and joint pain. Inspired by her results, Jordan adopted a 'lion diet' of only beef, salt, and water, which he credited for improved mental health and physical ailments. Their stories, while personal, have inspired countless others to experiment with the protocol.
Other Influential Voices
Beyond the Petersons and Rogan, other influential figures have also endorsed or explored the carnivore lifestyle. Former orthopedic surgeon Shawn Baker, who wrote The Carnivore Diet, is widely considered a key promoter of the modern version of this eating plan. More recently, entrepreneur Elon Musk made controversial comments about his diet, noting that he eats mostly steak and eggs for breakfast, which he feels provides a "power up". These endorsements, from influencers to titans of industry, amplify the visibility of the carnivore diet, often focusing on anecdotal benefits like enhanced energy and weight loss.
Hollywood and Reality TV Adherents
Not just confined to the podcasting world, the carnivore diet has also made its way into Hollywood and reality television circles. In 2025, actress and TV host Jenny McCarthy claimed in an interview that switching from a vegan diet to a carnivore regimen dramatically improved her health. Similarly, reality TV star Heidi Montag briefly experimented with a raw meat-centric version of the diet in pursuit of improved fertility and well-being. While Montag's approach was particularly extreme, it highlights the broad spectrum of experimentation celebrities engage in. On YouTube, the fitness creators known as the Buff Dudes, Hudson and Brandon White, documented their own 30-day carnivore challenge. They reported stable energy levels without carbohydrates but ultimately concluded the diet was not for them due to a lack of variety.
Athletes and Sports Personalities
The carnivore diet has also attracted individuals in the athletic and strength-building communities. Legendary powerlifter and inventor Mark Bell is a carnivore diet enthusiast, following a modified version of the eating plan. His brother, Chris Bell, is noted as a long-time adherent, reportedly losing 20 pounds in two weeks when he first started the diet in the 1990s. Meanwhile, former champion indoor rower Shawn Baker is a prominent advocate. It is also rumored that MMA fighter Brock Lesnar follows a mostly carnivore diet, though many professional athletes keep their dietary secrets private to maintain a competitive edge.
Comparison Table: Notable Celebrity Carnivore Experiences
| Celebrity | Primary Reason | Reported Results | Duration/Experience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Joe Rogan | Health challenge | Weight loss, improved energy, vitiligo improvement | 30-day challenge |
| Jordan Peterson | Autoimmune issues | Improved mental clarity, mood, energy | Long-term, adopted from daughter |
| Mikhaila Peterson | Autoimmune issues, joint pain | Elimination of multiple chronic health problems | Strict 'lion diet' approach |
| Shawn Baker | Fitness advocacy | Athletic performance | Publicly endorsed and wrote a book |
| Heidi Montag | Fertility, overall wellness | Increased energy, improved well-being | Experimented with a raw version |
| Jenny McCarthy | Transition from veganism | Significantly improved health and wellness | Adopted regimen after negative vegan experience |
Addressing the Controversies
It is crucial to note that the carnivore diet is a highly contentious topic in the nutrition and medical communities. Mainstream nutritionists raise concerns about the diet's extreme nature, which eliminates essential nutrients found in plant-based foods, including fiber, antioxidants, and a wide variety of vitamins and minerals. The diet is often high in saturated fat and sodium, raising concerns about potential long-term health risks like elevated LDL cholesterol and colorectal cancer. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified processed meat as 'carcinogenic to humans,' an important consideration for any diet that heavily features meat. Furthermore, long-term studies on the effects of a purely meat-based diet are limited, and what works for a few individuals with unique sensitivities, like the Petersons, is not guaranteed to be safe or effective for the general population. This ongoing debate highlights the difference between anecdotal celebrity experiences and established nutritional science.
Conclusion: The Star-Powered Diet Trend
The carnivore diet has captivated the attention of various celebrities, from podcasters and influencers to actors and athletes. While their testimonials of weight loss, improved energy, and reduced inflammation are compelling, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice. The diet's extreme restrictiveness and lack of scientific consensus on its long-term effects mean it is not suitable for everyone. As with any significant dietary change, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional to ensure safety and alignment with individual health needs.
For more information on the history and arguments surrounding the diet, consider reading Shawn Baker's book, The Carnivore Diet.
