A Health Warning from an Extreme Diet

A Florida man in his 40s, who followed a strict carnivore diet for eight months, was recently diagnosed with xanthelasma, a condition causing yellow cholesterol deposits across his body. The deposits appeared on his palms, soles, and elbows and prompted a visit to the doctor.

What is the Carnivore Diet?

The carnivore diet eliminates all plant-based foods, allowing only:

• Meat and poultry

• Eggs

• Seafood

• Dairy (in some cases)

• Water

Fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, seeds, and nuts are strictly avoided.

While popular among keto and low-carb enthusiasts, the diet lacks essential nutrients, vitamins, and fiber, increasing the risk of chronic diseases, including cancer and cardiovascular issues.

Extreme Fat Consumption and Sky-High Cholesterol

The patient reportedly consumed up to 4 kilograms (9 pounds) of fatty food daily, even adding extra fat to his hamburgers. His cholesterol levels exceeded 1,000 mg/dL, more than five times the recommended adult limit.

This excessive intake caused cholesterol to overload the bloodstream, leading to visible yellowish nodules on the skin. In extreme areas, the cholesterol deposits cracked through the skin.

Medical Diagnosis: Xanthelasma

The doctors diagnosed severe xanthelasma, a condition where cholesterol builds up under the skin, typically around the eyes but sometimes on other body parts. Xanthelasma is closely linked to:

• Hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol levels)

• Diabetes

• Thyroid disorders

Long-Term Health Risks

While these deposits are not painful, they require laser surgery or cryotherapy (liquid nitrogen treatment) for removal. However, the bigger concern is that high cholesterol increases the risk of:

• Heart disease

• Stroke

• Kidney disease

• Cancer and dementia (linked to clogged blood flow)

A Lesson to Consider

The patient, despite experiencing weight loss and reported mental clarity on the carnivore diet, now faces serious long-term health risks. While the diet’s short-term effects may seem appealing, its nutritional deficiencies and high fat intake can have severe consequences.

This case serves as a crucial reminder that extreme diets should be approached with caution. Balanced nutrition remains key to long-term health.