Joe Rogan's Supplement Journey: From Onnit to Whole Foods
Joe Rogan's fitness and nutrition philosophy is constantly evolving, a journey well-documented on his popular podcast. Over the years, his protein sources have shifted dramatically, moving away from manufactured supplements towards a diet centered on whole, wild-caught game. This section details the key transitions in his protein intake, exploring his past use of brand-affiliated products and his current carnivore-inspired focus.
Initially, Rogan was a major proponent and co-founder of the supplement brand Onnit. For a period, he promoted and used their hemp protein supplement. However, this product has since been discontinued, marking a turning point in his protein supplementation. He also endorsed Onnit's Protein Bites, though these served as more of a snack than a primary protein source. The Onnit chapter represents a time when Rogan integrated processed supplements into his routine, influenced by his business partnership with the brand.
The Carnivore Diet and Wild Game Protein
Following extensive research and conversations with guests like Jordan Peterson and Dr. Shawn Baker, Rogan adopted a carnivore diet, a regimen that radically changed his protein consumption. This dietary shift prioritizes consuming only animal products and eliminating almost all plant-based foods.
For Rogan, this meant hunting and consuming wild game, particularly elk, became his primary source of protein. He frequently showcases his meals on social media, featuring large, seared cuts of elk. He reasons that wild game is a cleaner, more natural protein source, free from the hormones and steroids often found in factory-farmed meat. This approach is a complete departure from the convenience of protein powders, emphasizing a more primal, whole-food philosophy.
Common Animal Protein Sources in Rogan's Diet:
- Wild Elk Meat
- Grass-fed Steak
- Bison
- Bacon
- Other wild game like deer and moose
Comparing Rogan's Protein Eras
To understand the full scope of his dietary changes, it's helpful to compare Rogan's previous supplement-centric approach with his current whole-food emphasis.
| Feature | Past (Onnit Era) | Present (Carnivore Focus) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Protein Source | Onnit Hemp Protein, Onnit Protein Bites | Wild game (elk), grass-fed beef, bacon |
| Dietary Philosophy | Integrating supplements with a mixed diet | Whole-food, carnivore-based approach |
| Protein Type | Plant-based (Hemp), Whey Isolate (Post-workout) | Animal-based (Meat) |
| Convenience | High; powder is quick and easy to mix | Low; requires preparation and cooking of whole meats |
| Sourcing | Commercial supplement brand | Hunting and trusted local suppliers |
The Bottom Line on Rogan's Protein Choices
While Rogan's supplement stack includes many non-protein items like Athletic Greens and Creatine, his protein intake has fundamentally shifted. For those specifically asking what protein powder does Rogan use, the answer is that he largely does not use one anymore in favor of whole, animal-based sources. His emphasis on elk and other wild game reflects a deeper belief in consuming clean, unprocessed food for peak physical and mental performance.
This doesn't mean all processed protein is off the table, as some reports still reference occasional whey protein isolate use for post-workout recovery, but it is a far cry from being a dietary staple. For most followers seeking to emulate Rogan, the focus should be less on finding a specific brand of protein powder and more on prioritizing a clean, nutrient-dense diet rich in animal protein.
For more insight into Rogan's broader supplement strategy, you can explore his history and other products he uses here.
Conclusion: A Shift Towards Clean Eating
Joe Rogan's protein regimen is a testament to his evolving health philosophy. He moved away from brand-affiliated protein supplements like Onnit's hemp protein in favor of a whole-food, carnivore-style approach. Today, his protein primarily comes from wild game, especially elk, as well as grass-fed beef and bacon. While he may occasionally use whey protein isolate for recovery, his core strategy relies on the high-quality protein and fats found in animal products, minimizing his reliance on powders. This shift highlights his dedication to what he perceives as a more natural and optimal diet for his active lifestyle.
Protein and Performance: A Deeper Look
Beyond just the source of protein, Rogan's diet prioritizes nutrient density and animal-based fats to fuel his physically demanding schedule. His carnivore experiments have led to significant weight loss and reduced inflammation, a benefit he attributes to the high-quality animal protein and elimination of processed carbohydrates. This holistic view of nutrition, where protein is sourced from the most natural form possible, is central to his current regimen.
His choice of elk meat is particularly relevant. As a lean protein source, it is low in saturated fat and free of the growth hormones and antibiotics found in many commercial meats. When combined with fats from sources like grass-fed butter or bacon, it provides the energy and building blocks required for muscle repair and growth, aligning with his preference for functional, performance-oriented nutrition. This whole-food approach emphasizes that the source and quality of protein matter significantly more than the convenience of a powdered scoop.
How Joe Rogan's Diet Impacted His Protein Needs
The transition to a carnivore diet fundamentally altered Rogan's protein intake and his overall caloric distribution. His diet shifted to a high-protein, high-fat, low-carb model, where protein comprises a significant portion of his meals. He noted that without carbohydrates, his body relies on fat for energy, a process that requires sufficient fat intake alongside his protein. This eliminated the need for supplemental protein powders to fill nutritional gaps, as his two daily meals consisting of eggs, bacon, and wild meat provided more than enough protein. His experience demonstrates a complete integration of protein into his main dietary structure rather than as a separate, supplementary element.
