Introduction
For over 10 years, I struggled with relentless gut issues. Every evening, without fail, I experienced severe pain and bloating that left me feeling completely defeated. My stomach would swell so much that I looked seven months pregnant.
The discomfort was unbearable, and I often avoided social gatherings because I didn’t want to risk the embarrassment of bloating in public.
I saw doctor after doctor, had colonoscopies, endoscopies, and countless blood tests. Everything came back “normal.” Yet, my body felt anything but normal.
It became clear that if I wanted to heal, it was up to me to figure it out.
The Long Road to Relief
I tried it all.
• Diets: GAPS, SCD, Low FOD Map, candida, gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, corn-free.
• Supplements: Probiotics, L-glutamine, ginger, turmeric, digestive enzymes, many different supplements specifically for gut healting.
• Lifestyle changes: Meditation, food journaling, symptom tracking.
Each approach offered temporary relief, but the symptoms always returned. The bloating, pain, and frustration persisted.
My "safe foods" list dwindled down to a list so small that doctors asked me, "What can you eat?"
My answer?
Meat.
Then, my naturopathic doctor suggested something radical: The Carnivore Diet.
Discovering Carnivore
At first, I hesitated. Was it even healthy to eat only meat?
But after researching the carnivore diet, I found a large community of people thriving on this approach. Many reported relief from gut issues, autoimmune diseases, chronic fatigue, and even skin conditions like eczema, acne, and psoriasis. They spoke about reversing type 2 diabetes, healing PCOS, and putting autoimmune diseases into remission.
So, I tried it.
And after 10 years of pain, something amazing happened:
• The bloating stopped.
• My gut healed.
• My chronic fatigue lifted.
• My muscle aches disappeared.
• My brain fog cleared.
It was life-changing.
Food as Medicine
Here’s the point of this article: it’s not to convince you to go on a carnivore diet.
My message is that I didn’t stop trying.
Inflammation, gut issues, chronic fatigue, and autoimmune diseases can often be triggered or worsened by what we eat. Read more on my blog on why Eating a Whole Foods Diet is Essential for Optimal
Wellness. There is so much evidence that food matters when it comes to these conditions.
If you’re suffering, don’t stay stuck.
Experiment.
Be open to new approaches, even ones that may feel unconventional. There isn’t one perfect diet for everyone, and I will never tell my clients what to eat - that’s not my job.
But I will encourage you to keep trying until you find relief.
Why Meat Helped Me
The carnivore diet worked for me because it removed foods that were triggering my symptoms, including some I never suspected - like vegetables. Many plant-based foods contain natural compounds like lectins, oxalates, and histamines that can irritate the gut or cause inflammation in some people.
Here’s why meat was the answer for my body:
- Nutrient Density: Red meat is rich in B vitamins like B12, B6, and riboflavin, which are essential for energy production, brain health, and red blood cell formation. B12 deficiency, for example, is common in people with anemia and chronic fatigue, and it’s only found in animal products.
- Amino Acids: Meat contains all the essential amino acids your body needs for repair, growth, and immune function. These are crucial for healing and maintaining muscle, especially during times of inflammation.
- Iron: Heme iron from meat is the most bioavailable form, critical for people with anemia or iron deficiencies.
- Healthy Fats: Animal fats support hormone production and brain health. Your brain needs fat to thrive, and these fats also provide energy and reduce inflammation.
- Bone and Muscle Health: Meat provides essential nutrients like protein, calcium, and phosphorus, which are crucial for maintaining strong bones and muscle mass as we age. Research shows that adequate protein intake helps prevent muscle loss (sarcopenia) and supports bone density, reducing the risk of fractures.
Meat Myths Debunked
- Debunking the Cancer Myth: Despite the widespread claim that red meat causes cancer, studies fail to show causation. Much of the research that links red meat to cancer doesn’t account for other lifestyle factors like processed foods, smoking, or sugar intake. In fact, societies like the Inuit and Maasai, who consume predominantly meat-based diets, have incredibly low rates of chronic illness.
- The Cholesterol Myth: Medical research has evolved in its understanding of dietary cholesterol and heart disease. While historically it was believed that consuming cholesterol-rich foods directly increased heart disease risk, current evidence suggests otherwise. Natural, unprocessed foods containing cholesterol - like eggs, seafood, and meats - have not been shown to significantly impact heart disease risk in healthy individuals. The body actually produces the majority of its cholesterol naturally, and many experts now focus more on factors like processed foods, refined carbohydrates, and trans fats as significant contributors to heart disease risk. In fact, cholesterol is essential for hormone production, brain health, and cellular repair. Avoiding it entirely can do more harm than good.
Pairing Carnivore with Intermittent Fasting
In addition to going carnivore, I incorporated intermittent fasting (IF) into my routine. By fasting, I gave my digestive system time to rest and heal, reduced inflammation, and regulated my blood sugar.
I started with a 16:8 schedule, eating within an 8-hour window, and found that combining IF with a meat-based diet amplified the healing process.
Where I Am Now
Today, my body has healed so much that I can occasionally enjoy foods outside of the carnivore diet without issues. But for the most part, I thrive on a high-protein, high-fat diet.
As I navigate perimenopause/menopause, I feel stronger, sharper, and more energized than ever.
• I can lift heavier weights.
• My brain is clear and focused.
• I have energy that lasts all day, free from chronic pain and bloating.
Final Thoughts
If you’re battling gut issues, inflammation, or chronic fatigue, I encourage you to keep searching for what works for your body. Healing takes persistence and an open mind. Whether it’s carnivore, intermittent fasting, or another approach entirely, don’t stop trying until you find relief.
Food matters.
It can be a powerful trigger or a powerful healer.
What you eat is personal, and what works for one person may not work for another. My journey has shown me the importance of listening to your body, experimenting, and staying committed to your health.
Have questions about my experience or want to share your journey? Reach out to me, I’d love to hear from you.
Before you go, I have a FREE gift to share with you!
FREE Discover Fasting PDF
Ready to start your fasting journey? Download my FREE Fasting Success Guide PDF to jumpstart your transformation. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know. You'll discover simple strategies to handle hunger, maintain energy, and achieve your health goals. Whether you're completely new to fasting or looking to optimize your current practice, this guide provides practical, science-backed advice to help you succeed. Click below to get your free guide and join thousands of others who have transformed their health through sustainable intermittent fasting.
*Want to know MORE about IF? Here is my Debunking Fasting Myths Guide to learn more about incorportating intermittent fasting into your life.
I promise to be gentle with your email address.
You can unsubsribe at anytime.
Join Us for the Next Live Metabolic Reboot & Cravings Masterclass!
Our first Metabolic Reboot and Cravings Masterclass was an incredible success! The powerful transformations and genuine connections we witnessed during the live Zoom session were truly inspiring. That’s why we’re bringing it back—LIVE! Stay tuned for the date and more details. You won’t want to miss this opportunity to reset your metabolism, conquer cravings, and step into your best self!
Meet Coach Nikki
Discover the path to your best self! Join me for a free discovery call and start your journey now!
Midlife Reclaimed: Self-Assessment
Midlife Breakthrough: What’s Blocking Your Best Life? Take the quiz now to find out.
Metabolic & Cravings Reboot Masterclass
Discover how to reset your metabolism and break free from cravings for good. Learn powerful strategies to reclaim your health, energy, and confidence—starting with just one masterclass!
Redefine Your Strength
Introducing the Total Body Blast Workout Guide—your easy roadmap to building muscle and strength at any stage of life.
Ready for Change?
Book your first coaching session at 50% off and get my Calm in the Chaos PDF FREE to help you overcome overwhelm and find more peace in your life. Start your journey to balance and thrive today!
Question? Ask us at nikkiz@benourished360.net
Copyright © 2022 | benourished360.net