Can You Eat Smoked Meat on a Carnivore Diet?

Alright, let's dive into the meaty world of the carnivore diet and smoked meats. Buckle up, because we're going on a carnivorous adventure!

So, you're on the carnivore diet, and you're wondering if you can eat smoked meat. Well, you're in the right place!

In this article, we'll explore whether smoked meat is a good fit for the carnivore diet, and what experts have to say about it. But first, let's take a quick detour to understand what the carnivore diet is all about.

What is the Carnivore Diet?

The carnivore diet is a diet that involves consuming only animal products, including meat, seafood, eggs, and certain dairy products while excluding all plant-based foods^[1]. It's like being on a never-ending barbecue party, minus the veggies. Remember when we talked about the carnivore diet in our previous blog post, Unleashing the Carnivore Within? Yeah, it's that diet.

The Smoky Question: Can You Eat Smoked Meat on a Carnivore Diet?

Now, let's get to the heart of the matter. Can you eat smoked meat on a carnivore diet? The short answer is yes. Smoked meat is a high protein food that can provide necessary nutrients and energy^[2]. But wait, there's more to it than just saying yes.

The Science Behind Smoked Meat and the Carnivore Diet

A study on polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) occurrence in traditionally smoked chicken, turkey, and duck meat found that the smoking process does add certain PAHs to the meat^[3]. PAHs are a group of chemicals that are formed during the burning of coal, oil, gas, wood, garbage, and other organic substances such as tobacco and charbroiled meat. Some PAHs have been found to cause cancer in laboratory animals when they breathed these substances in the air, ate them in food, or had them applied to their skin.

While the study found that the highest concentrations of PAHs were present in duck meat, irrespective of smoking time or wood type, it's important to note that the study did not specifically look at the impact of these PAHs on human health. Further research is needed to fully understand the implications of consuming smoked meat, especially in the context of a carnivore diet.

Expert Opinions on Smoked Meat and the Carnivore Diet

While there's no specific research on the carnivore diet and smoked meat, experts have weighed in on the broader topic of meat consumption and health. For instance, a study examining the nutrition transition in Sub-Saharan African countries found that a diet high in red meat, like the carnivore diet, can lead to a higher prevalence of non-communicable diseases^[4]. This suggests that while smoked meat can be part of a carnivore diet, moderation and variety are key to maintaining health.

Conclusion

So, can you eat smoked meat on a carnivore diet? Yes, you can. But as with all things in life, moderation is key. While smoked meat can add a delicious twist to your carnivore diet, it's important to balance it with other types of meat and animal products to ensure you're getting a variety of nutrients. And remember, always listen to your body. If you notice any adverse effects after eating smoked meat, it might be a good idea to cut back.

Remember, the carnivore diet is a journey, not a destination. So, whether you're a smoked meat aficionado or a carnivore diet newbie, enjoy the ride and happy eating!

Note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new diet or health regimen.

1. Carnivore Diet Food List - What You Can & Cannot Eat ↩︎
2. Is Smoked Meat Bad For You? (7 Things To Consider) ↩︎
3. Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) Occurrence in Traditionally Smoked Chicken, Turkey and Duck Meat ↩︎
4. The Nutrition Transition and the Double Burden of Malnutrition in Sub-Saharan African Countries: How Do These Countries Compare with the Recommended LANCET COMMISSION Global Diet? ↩︎