The question of what is it called when you only eat veggies and meat is most often answered by referring to the Paleo diet. Also known as the Paleolithic, Stone Age, or caveman diet, this eating plan is based on the premise that modern health issues, like obesity and diabetes, are linked to the introduction of agricultural-era foods that humans are not genetically adapted to eat. Adherents consume foods that could theoretically be hunted, fished, or gathered by early humans, such as meat, fish, vegetables, and some fruits.
The Principles of the Paleo Diet
The Paleo diet focuses on consuming whole, unprocessed foods and eliminating the foods introduced during the agricultural revolution that began roughly 10,000 years ago. While not every Paleo adherent's diet consists only of meat and vegetables, that combination forms the cornerstone of the meal plan. A traditional approach strictly avoids grains, legumes, and dairy products, among other things.
Foods Allowed on a Standard Paleo Diet:
- Lean meats (especially grass-fed or wild game)
- Fish (particularly rich in omega-3s like salmon)
- Eggs
- Fruits
- Vegetables (both starchy and non-starchy)
- Nuts and seeds
- Healthy fats like olive and avocado oil
Conversely, the diet excludes grains (wheat, oats, barley), legumes (beans, lentils, peas), dairy products, refined sugar, potatoes, and processed foods. This focus on natural, whole foods and avoidance of inflammatory or high-sugar items is a core health-promoting aspect of the plan.
Variations: Meat and Greens vs. Carnivore Diet
While the Paleo diet is the most fitting formal term, some people follow a more specific "meat and greens" approach. This was popularized by individuals who found success by limiting their intake to just animal products and leafy vegetables. However, it is distinct from a true carnivore diet, which eliminates all plant-based foods, including vegetables, fruits, and nuts.
The Carnivore diet is an extreme elimination diet that restricts eating to only animal products, such as meat, fish, eggs, and some dairy. It is essentially the strictest form of a ketogenic diet, with almost zero carbohydrates. This differs significantly from the Paleo approach, which is more liberal with its allowance of plant-based foods, including fibrous vegetables and some fruits.
Paleo vs. Carnivore vs. Keto: A Quick Comparison
To better understand the differences between these similar-sounding diets, consider the following comparison:
| Feature | Paleo Diet | Carnivore Diet | Keto Diet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Allowed Foods | Meat, fish, eggs, fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, some oils | Meat, fish, eggs, some dairy (optional) | Meat, fish, eggs, low-carb vegetables, healthy fats, some dairy, nuts, seeds |
| Excluded Foods | Grains, legumes, dairy, processed sugar | All plant-based foods (vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds) | Grains, legumes, most fruits, processed sugar, starchy vegetables |
| Macronutrient Focus | Moderate-to-high protein, varying carbohydrates and fat | Very high protein, high fat, zero carbohydrates | Very high fat, moderate protein, very low carbohydrates |
| Guiding Philosophy | Mimic ancestral hunter-gatherer diet for optimal human health | Extreme elimination diet, sometimes for autoimmune issues | Induce ketosis for fat-burning by limiting carbohydrates |
Potential Benefits and Drawbacks
The diet of only meat and vegetables, as embodied by the Paleo diet, has been praised for its emphasis on whole, unprocessed foods. The elimination of refined sugars and high-fat processed items can lead to a reduction in calorie intake and potential weight loss. Proponents also report benefits such as improved blood sugar control, lower blood pressure, and increased insulin sensitivity. For those who are intolerant to grains or dairy, cutting these food groups can lead to significant digestive improvements and reduced inflammation.
However, the restrictive nature of these diets carries risks. Cutting out entire food groups can lead to nutrient deficiencies over the long term, such as a lack of calcium from dairy or fiber from grains. The diet's long-term sustainability is also questioned, as it can be difficult and expensive to maintain. Studies on the long-term effects of the Paleo diet are limited and inconclusive, with some research suggesting it may not be superior to other balanced diets. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian before beginning a restrictive eating plan, especially if you have underlying health conditions.
Conclusion: Finding the Right Balance
What is it called when you only eat veggies and meat? The most accurate answer is the Paleo diet. It represents a philosophy of ancestral eating that prioritizes whole, unprocessed foods. While it has some similarities to the Carnivore and Keto diets, its inclusion of a variety of plant-based foods like fruits and vegetables sets it apart. While it can offer health benefits like weight loss and reduced inflammation, individuals must carefully consider the potential for nutrient deficiencies and the challenge of long-term adherence. For personalized advice, working with a healthcare professional is always the best approach. It is important to remember that a balanced and varied diet, not just one restricted to meat and vegetables, is often the most sustainable and beneficial path to long-term health.
