This article, which you can learn more about here, highlights the potential benefits and risks of those who choose to incorporate the carnivore diet in their daily lives. While we largely agree with its assessment, it’s essential to approach dietary choices with a nuanced perspective grounded in both historical context and modern science.

The idea that our ancient ancestors subsisted solely on meat is, in my opinion, an oversimplification. While some tribes may have relied heavily on animal-based diets due to regional constraints, others consumed a variety of plant-based foods. These dietary patterns were shaped over tens of thousands of years, driven by local availability and environmental factors. Importantly, our ancestors’ lifespans were relatively short, so emulating their dietary habits without considering modern health outcomes may not be the wisest course of action.

Furthermore, humanity today is no longer divided into isolated tribes. Our genetic makeup is a complex tapestry resulting from centuries of intermingling among populations from diverse regions. This diversity makes it nearly impossible to generalize dietary needs based solely on ancestral habits.

This is where advancements in genetics and personalized medicine come into play. Through genetic testing, we can begin to understand an individual’s unique biological blueprint and how it may influence their nutritional needs. At our practice, we leverage this cutting-edge technology to provide patients with personalized dietary guidance aimed at optimizing their genetic function. This approach, which is referred as “personalized medicine,” offers a tailored path to better health — one that accounts for the intricacies of individual genetic variations.

That said, it’s important to recognize that this field is still in its infancy. Genetic testing for nutrition is what we would call “frontier medicine” — a promising but evolving science. While the potential is enormous, it will take time for these technologies to become fully accessible and affordable for the general population.

In the meantime, we continue to recommend the Mediterranean diet as a safer and more extensively researched option. Its emphasis on whole foods, healthy fats, and a variety of nutrients aligns well with the principles of balanced nutrition.

For those interested in exploring a personalized approach to their diet, we encourage you to contact our office and speak with our staff. We are happy to discuss how genetic testing and personalized medicine can help you better understand your unique dietary needs. By combining ancient wisdom with modern science, we aim to provide the most informed and effective recommendations for your health journey.