77: The Truth About the Carnivore Diet: Why Nose-to-Tail Is Essential!

Is eating only steak and eggs really the optimal way to follow the carnivore diet? Or are we missing something vital by overlooking the nutrient-rich parts of the animal? In this episode of the Primal Shift Podcast, we explore what the carnivore diet gets right, where it often falls short, and how eating nose to tail can revolutionize your health.

The carnivore diet is a powerful tool for healing chronic conditions like IBS and autoimmune disorders, but many people focus solely on muscle meat and eggs, ignoring the broader spectrum of nutrients our bodies need to thrive. Drawing insights from evolutionary history and nutritional science, I explain why organs, fat, and connective tissue are indispensable for a truly optimal diet. After all, even true carnivores like lions and wolves prioritize these nutrient-dense parts of their prey.

We also take a critical look at commonly consumed foods within the carnivore community, such as poultry and eggs. While egg yolks are nutritional powerhouses, egg whites come with potential downsides, including anti-nutrients like avidin that can interfere with biotin absorption. Similarly, conventional poultry — which is high in unstable PUFAs and low in nutrients — was never a staple in ancestral diets. These details matter when aiming for peak health.

I also address common concerns about organ meats and why eating nose to tail aligns with how humans evolved. If you find fresh organs impractical, freeze-dried supplements can offer a convenient alternative without compromising on nutrients.

Whether you’re using the carnivore diet to heal or optimize, this episode will help you rethink your approach and get the most out of your meals. And once healing is achieved, I share how you can reintroduce other foods — like seasonal plants, raw honey and dairy — while maintaining a foundation of nutrient-dense animal foods.

Are you ready to embrace the way humans were designed to eat? Tune in for practical tips, evolutionary insights, and strategies to make the carnivore diet work for you. Don’t forget to share your thoughts: Have you tried a nose-to-tail approach or strict carnivore? What’s worked for you? Let’s continue the conversation in the comments or on social media.

Learn more:

Download my free Animal Based Diet Food & Beverage List: https://michaelkummer.com/food-list/ 

Why Humans Are NOT Meant to Eat Plants: https://youtu.be/l22zfl7TmZo 

Plants vs. Meat: Why I Stopped Eating Veggies: https://michaelkummer.com/health/plants-vs-meat/ 

Health Benefits of Eating Organ Meat: https://michaelkummer.com/health/organ-meat-benefits/

Listen to Primal Shift Podcast Episode #15 with Dr. Anthony Gustin: “The Shocking Truth Behind Pasture-Raised Chicken and Pork”: https://www.primalshiftpodcast.com/dr-anthony-gustin-the-shocking-truth-behind-pasture-raised-chicken-and-pork/ 

Listen to Primal Shift Podcast #52: Grass-Fed vs. Conventional Beef: Vitamin and Fatty Acid Comparison: https://www.primalshiftpodcast.com/52-grass-fed-vs-conventional-beef-vitamin-and-fatty-acid-comparison/ 

Aldi Grocery Haul: Animal-Based Diet: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w2woWi7T0GU 

Walmart Grocery Haul: Animal-Based Diet: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3iQOoEAwzTc 

Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, Peluva!

Peluva makes minimalist shoes to support optimal foot, back and joint health. I started wearing Peluvas several months ago, and I haven’t worn regular shoes since. I encourage you to consider trading your sneakers or training shoes for a pair of Peluvas, and then watch the health of your feet and lower back improve while reducing your risk of injury. 

To learn more about why I love Peluva barefoot shoes, check out my in-depth review and use code KUMMER to get 15% off your first pair.

In this episode:

00:00 - Why the carnivore diet isn’t just steak and eggs

00:20 - Sponsor shoutout: Peluva minimalist shoes

01:42 - The evolution of human diets: From scavengers to hunters

03:06 - The problem with poultry and eggs in a carnivore diet

05:40 - The benefits of eating nose-to-tail

07:10 - How to approach organ meats if you don’t like them

08:00 - Outro and teaser for the next episode

Find me on social media for more health and wellness content:

• Website: https://michaelkummer.com/

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelKummer

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primalshiftpodcast/

• Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/michaelkummer/

• Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/michaelkummer/

• Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/mkummer82

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realmichaelkummer/

[Medical Disclaimer]

The information shared on this video is for educational purposes only, is not a substitute for the advice of medical doctors or registered dietitians (which I am not) and should not be used to prevent, diagnose, or treat any condition. Consult with a physician before starting a fitness regimen, adding supplements to your diet, or making other changes that may affect your medications, treatment plan, or overall health.

[Affiliate Disclaimer]

I earn affiliate commissions from some of the brands and products I review on this channel. While that doesn't change my editorial integrity, it helps make this channel happen. If you’d like to support me, please use my affiliate links or discount code.

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