What is the Canvar Diet? The Carnivore Diet Explained

December 22, 2025 •

4 min read

According to a 2021 study, a small group of people following the carnivore diet reported improvements in overall health, though these findings were based on self-reports and should be interpreted with caution. While the term “Canvar diet” is a common misspelling, it almost certainly refers to this highly restrictive, all-animal-product eating plan that has gained traction online.

Quick Summary

The 'Canvar diet' is a frequent misspelling of the Carnivore diet, a restrictive plan consisting exclusively of animal products like meat, fish, and eggs.

Key Points

Misspelling Clarified: "Canvar diet" is a common typo for the highly restrictive "Carnivore diet."
Exclusively Animal-Based: The diet involves eating only meat, fish, eggs, and some dairy, while excluding all plant-based foods.
No Scientific Consensus: Reliable long-term studies confirming the diet's purported benefits are lacking; most evidence is anecdotal.
Significant Health Risks: Potential dangers include nutrient deficiencies, high saturated fat intake, and a severe lack of fiber, which can negatively impact gut health.
Not Sustainable for Everyone: The diet's extreme restrictiveness makes long-term adherence difficult, and health experts advise caution.
Consult a Professional: It is strongly recommended to speak with a healthcare provider before attempting such a restrictive eating plan.

The 'Canvar' Diet: A Common Misspelling of the Carnivore Diet

If you searched for "Canvar diet," you likely meant the Carnivore diet, a popular but controversial eating plan that excludes all plant-based foods. The rise of online diet influencers and social media trends has led to variations in how this diet is referenced, but its core principles remain the same: an exclusive focus on animal products.

What is the Carnivore Diet?

The Carnivore diet is an extremely restrictive form of a low-carbohydrate, high-fat, and high-protein diet. Its proponents, most notably former orthopedic surgeon Dr. Shawn Baker, advocate for consuming only animal products and water. The diet is built on the belief that human ancestors thrived on a primarily meat-based diet and that modern chronic illnesses are caused by carbohydrates and plant-based foods.

Unlike the ketogenic (keto) or paleo diets, which limit carbs, the Carnivore diet aims for a "zero-carb" intake, completely eliminating fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. This approach triggers ketosis, a metabolic state where the body burns fat for energy instead of carbohydrates.

What to Eat on the Carnivore Diet

An adherent of the Carnivore diet will consume foods exclusively from animal sources. The specific inclusions can vary, but generally fall into these categories:

Meat: Beef, pork, lamb, and venison, with fattier cuts often encouraged for energy.
Poultry: Chicken, turkey, and duck.
Fish and Seafood: Salmon, mackerel, sardines, crab, and lobster.
Organ Meats: Liver, kidney, heart, and bone marrow are encouraged for micronutrients.
Eggs: A staple of the diet.
Bone Broth: Often recommended for its nutrients and hydration.
Low-Lactose Dairy: Small amounts of hard cheeses, butter, and heavy cream are sometimes included.
Seasonings: Limited to salt and pepper.

Foods to Avoid on the Carnivore Diet

This diet is defined by what it eliminates, which includes nearly all other food groups:

Fruits and Vegetables: All produce is strictly prohibited.
Grains: No bread, pasta, rice, or other grains.
Legumes: Beans, lentils, and peas are not allowed.
Nuts and Seeds: All types are excluded.
Processed Foods and Sugar: Candies, pastries, sodas, and other processed items are not part of the plan.
Plant-Based Oils: Excludes olive, coconut, and other vegetable oils.
High-Lactose Dairy: Milk, yogurt, and soft cheeses are typically avoided.

Carnivore vs. Balanced Diet: Potential Outcomes


Feature	Proponents' Claims (Carnivore Diet)	Scientific and Expert Consensus (Balanced Diet)
Weight Loss	Many report rapid weight loss due to satiety and reduced caloric intake.	Weight loss is achieved through a sustainable calorie deficit, regardless of food group elimination.
Inflammation	Some individuals claim reduced inflammation and autoimmune symptoms.	A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables contains anti-inflammatory antioxidants, contradicting this claim.
Mental Clarity	Advocates report improved mental focus and stabilized mood.	Mood and mental health are best supported by a diverse nutrient intake and balanced lifestyle.
Nutrient Intake	Animal products alone can provide necessary vitamins, including vitamin C.	Restrictive nature leads to deficiencies in fiber, antioxidants, and some micronutrients, potentially harming long-term health.
Digestive Health	Some report relief from digestive issues by eliminating plant-based irritants.	Lack of dietary fiber from plants can cause constipation and negatively impact the gut microbiome, increasing long-term health risks.

Criticisms and Lack of Evidence

The scientific and medical communities are highly skeptical of the Carnivore diet, often categorizing it as a dangerous fad.

The Problem with No Fiber

One of the most significant concerns is the complete absence of dietary fiber. Fiber is crucial for healthy digestion, preventing constipation, and supporting a healthy gut microbiome. A lack of fiber has been linked to issues ranging from digestive discomfort to an increased risk of colon cancer. Proponents often argue that fiber is unnecessary, but extensive research supports its importance.

High Saturated Fat and Cholesterol

Because the diet relies on animal products, especially fattier cuts, it can be very high in saturated fat and cholesterol. While modern views on dietary cholesterol have evolved, consuming high amounts of saturated fat can still increase LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels in some individuals, potentially raising the risk of heart disease.

Relying on Anecdotal Evidence

Much of the support for the Carnivore diet comes from self-reported testimonials and social media influencers rather than controlled scientific studies. Testimonial evidence, while emotionally compelling, lacks the rigor of controlled clinical research, and results may be influenced by a placebo effect or the elimination of highly processed, sugary foods.

Conclusion: The Verdict on the Canvar Diet

The "Canvar diet" is not a recognized term but points to the Carnivore diet, an eating regimen that eliminates all plant foods. While followers report short-term benefits like weight loss and reduced inflammation, these claims lack robust scientific evidence and ignore significant health risks associated with the diet's restrictive nature. A balanced, sustainable approach that includes a variety of food groups is overwhelmingly supported by nutritional science for long-term health and well-being. Always consult a healthcare professional before making drastic changes to your diet.

For more information, read this article on the risks of restrictive diets: The carnivore diet: why it's not good for your health - BHF

Frequently Asked Questions

The "Canvar diet" is a misspelling of the Carnivore diet, which is an extremely restrictive eating plan that consists solely of animal products and eliminates all plant-based foods.

No controlled scientific studies have confirmed the long-term benefits of the Carnivore diet. While proponents cite anecdotal evidence, health experts express concerns about its risks and lack of nutritional balance.

The most significant risks include a lack of dietary fiber, potential nutrient deficiencies from eliminating fruits and vegetables, and a high intake of saturated fat, which may increase the risk of heart disease.

While both are low-carb, the keto diet allows for low-carb vegetables, some fruits, nuts, and seeds, whereas the Carnivore diet eliminates all plant-based foods entirely.

Due to its highly restrictive nature, the Carnivore diet is generally not considered a sustainable long-term eating plan for most people. Many find it difficult to stick with, and health experts recommend more balanced diets.

Permitted foods include meat (beef, pork, lamb, poultry), fish, eggs, organ meats, bone marrow, and small amounts of low-lactose dairy like butter and hard cheeses.

Individuals with kidney disease, pregnant or lactating women, and those with a history of eating disorders or anxiety about food should avoid this diet due to its extreme restrictions and potential health risks.