The Foundational Principle: Animal-Based Only
The most fundamental reason nuts are excluded from a carnivore diet is simple: they are derived from plants. The core tenet of the carnivore eating plan is to consume only animal products, which include meat, fish, eggs, and some select dairy items. This means all plant-based foods, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, and nuts, are off-limits. This philosophy is based on the idea that humans thrive on a diet similar to that of our ancestors, who primarily consumed animal products. By eliminating all plant matter, proponents aim to remove a vast range of potential irritants and focus on the nutrients they believe are most bioavailable from animal sources. This strict rule makes the carnivore diet different from other low-carb plans like the ketogenic diet, which allows for some plant-based foods, including certain nuts.
Nuts' Contradictory Nutritional Profile
While nuts are often praised for their nutritional benefits, their profile contradicts the goals of a carnivore diet in several ways.
Carbohydrate Content
Unlike the true zero-carb nature of meat, nuts contain a significant amount of carbohydrates. A strict carnivore diet is designed to keep carbohydrate intake as close to zero as possible to maintain a state of ketosis, where the body burns fat for fuel instead of glucose. Even with their beneficial fats and protein, the carbs found in nuts can disrupt this metabolic state. This makes nuts counterproductive for those seeking the profound fat-burning effects of strict carbohydrate restriction.
The Role of Plant-Based Anti-Nutrients
Another key reason for avoiding nuts revolves around the presence of 'anti-nutrients'—natural compounds that can interfere with the body's ability to absorb essential minerals and cause digestive issues. Proponents of the carnivore diet often frame it as an elimination diet to remove these potential toxins.
Phytic Acid: Mineral Absorption Inhibitor
Nuts and seeds contain phytic acid, or phytates, which can bind to vital minerals like zinc, iron, and calcium, preventing their absorption. While traditional preparation methods like soaking or sprouting can reduce phytate levels, a strict carnivore approach avoids this issue entirely by eliminating the source. The goal is to maximize the absorption of minerals from meat, which are already in a highly bioavailable form.
Oxalates: A Concern for Kidney Health
Many nuts are high in oxalates, compounds that can bind with calcium and form crystals in the body. For some individuals, particularly those prone to kidney stones, a high-oxalate diet can pose a health risk. Removing nuts and other high-oxalate plants is a strategic move within the carnivore community to reduce the potential for these issues.
Potential for Inflammation
The carnivore community also expresses concerns about the high omega-6 fatty acid content found in many nuts. A high ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids can potentially promote inflammation in the body. While sources like Harvard Health note that some nuts can be anti-inflammatory due to other compounds, the carnivore perspective prioritizes the superior omega-3 content found in certain animal products, like fatty fish, to achieve what they consider a more optimal inflammatory balance.
Carnivore vs. Nuts: A Comparison
| Feature | Carnivore Diet | Nuts (as a food group) |
|---|---|---|
| Food Source | Exclusively animal products (meat, fish, eggs, some dairy) | Plant-based (seeds, drupes, true nuts) |
| Core Macros | High protein, high fat, zero carb | High fat, moderate protein, and carbs |
| Anti-Nutrients | None | Contain phytates, oxalates, and lectins |
| Inflammation | Aims to reduce inflammation by balancing omega-3s and removing plant irritants | Contains Omega-6 fatty acids, which can impact the omega balance |
| Purpose | An elimination diet to address food sensitivities and inflammation | Provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals, but may cause issues for some |
The Elimination Protocol and Reintroduction
For many followers, the carnivore diet functions as a highly restrictive elimination protocol. The complete removal of all plant foods, including nuts, allows individuals to establish a baseline for their health and digestion. After an initial period, some people may choose to reintroduce certain foods, like nuts, to see how their body reacts. However, this is a personal choice and moves away from the strict carnivore approach, venturing into what is sometimes called a 'ketovore' or 'modified carnivore' diet. The carnivore diet's strict nature provides clarity by eliminating all potential food sensitivities at once, including those related to common allergens like nuts. For this reason, those who want to avoid all risk of a reaction, whether allergic or inflammatory, will omit nuts completely. For those interested in this protocol, it is important to remember that it is a restrictive diet and may not be suitable long-term without professional guidance.
Conclusion
In summary, there are several layered reasons why nuts are not included in a carnivore diet, all stemming from its core philosophy. The primary reason is that nuts are plants, and the carnivore diet is strictly animal-based. Beyond this foundational rule, nuts are avoided due to their carbohydrate content, which goes against the low-carb, ketogenic goal of the diet. The presence of plant-based anti-nutrients like phytic acid and oxalates is also a key factor, as these compounds can inhibit mineral absorption and potentially cause digestive distress. Finally, concerns about omega-6 fatty acid balance and the potential for inflammation reinforce the decision to exclude all plant matter. For a carnivore dieter, the choice to exclude nuts is not just about a single dietary rule but a comprehensive approach to nutrition focused on maximizing bioavailability and minimizing potential irritants. Learn more about the carnivore diet on WebMD.
