Confused about whether to go keto or try the trending carnivore diet? You’re not alone! Let’s break down these popular low-carb approaches to help you make an informed decision that fits your lifestyle and health goals.
What’s the Difference?
The ketogenic diet and the animal-based carnivore diet might seem similar at first glance, but they have some key differences:
Keto Diet Basics:
- Moderate protein intake
- High healthy fats (70-80% of calories)
- Very low carbs (20-50g daily)
- Includes plant foods
- Focus on reaching ketosis
Carnivore Diet Basics:
- High protein intake
- Moderate to high fat
- Zero carbs
- Exclusively animal products
- Focus on the elimination of plants
Flexible Options for Both Approaches
Not ready to go all-in? There are modified versions of both diets that might work better for you:
Modified Keto Options:
- Cyclical keto (carb cycling)
- Targeted keto (carbs around workouts)
- Mediterranean keto
Modern Carnivore Variations:
- The 80/20 carnivore diet (80% animal foods, 20% plant foods)
- Lazy carnivore diet (more relaxed approach)
- Carnivore diet 2.0 (includes some low-toxicity plants)
Making Your Choice
Consider these factors when choosing between keto and carnivore:
Choose Keto If You:
- Enjoy variety in your meals
- Want to keep some plant foods
- Like tracking macros
- Need more flexibility in social situations
Choose Carnivore If You:
- Prefer simple meal planning
- Want to follow an ancestral diet meal plan
- Have autoimmune issues
- Don’t mind a restricted food list
Getting Started Tips
Whichever path you choose, here are some success strategies:
- Start gradually
- Plan your meals ahead
- Stock your kitchen appropriately
- Join online communities for support
- Track your progress
The Bottom Line
Both the keto and carnivore diets can effectively lose weight and improve health. The key is choosing the best approach for your lifestyle, preferences, and health goals. Consider starting with the more flexible options like the lazy carnivore diet or a modified keto approach before diving into stricter versions.
Remember to consult your healthcare provider before starting any new dietary program, especially more restrictive ones like the Carnivore Diet 2.0 or strict keto.
Have you tried either of these diets? Share your experience in the comments below!