The carnivore diet is an extreme, restrictive eating plan that includes only animal-based foods such as meat, fish, poultry, eggs, and some dairy products, while excluding all plant-based foods like vegetables, fruits, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds

. It is sometimes called a "zero carb" diet because it aims to eliminate carbohydrates entirely, relying on fat and protein from animal sources for energy

. This diet is a form of ketogenic diet, as it promotes a state called ketosis, where the body burns fat instead of carbohydrates for fuel due to the absence of glucose from carbs

. Unlike typical keto diets that specify fat intake, the carnivore diet does not set fat targets but depends on the fat content naturally present in animal foods

. Proponents claim the carnivore diet can aid weight loss, improve mental clarity, and relieve autoimmune conditions, though these claims are largely based on anecdotal evidence and lack robust scientific validation

. The diet gained popularity through figures like Shawn Baker, an orthopedic doctor, and endorsements from celebrities such as Joe Rogan

. However, the carnivore diet carries potential health risks. It is high in saturated fat, which can raise LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels, increasing cardiovascular risk

. Other concerns include the risk of kidney stones, gout, osteoporosis, and impaired kidney function due to very high protein intake

. Nutrition experts generally caution that cutting out entire food groups can lead to nutrient deficiencies and is unlikely to be a balanced or sustainable long-term diet

. In summary, the carnivore diet is a meat-only, zero-carb diet that eliminates all plant foods, promotes ketosis, and is controversial due to potential health risks and lack of strong scientific evidence supporting its benefits