Eve Catherine, a Dallas-based influencer, ended up in the hospital after consuming excessive protein while following the viral “carnivore diet.”
The Carnivore Diet Trend
The carnivore diet, which has recently gained popularity, focuses on eating only animal-based foods like beef, poultry, pork, fish, and other animal byproducts. Influencers such as podcast host Joe Rogan have publicly praised the diet. However, health experts have raised concerns about the potential dangers of such an extreme eating plan.
Eve Catherine’s Experience
Catherine shared her experience on TikTok, revealing her daily meals. Her diet consisted of two to three eggs for breakfast, high-protein yogurt for lunch, and a New York strip steak for dinner. Despite warnings from medical professionals, she continued with the diet until a routine check-up revealed high protein levels in her urine. At the time, she did not take the concern seriously.
However, things took a serious turn when Catherine woke up one morning to find she was urinating blood. She was rushed to the emergency room, given morphine, and diagnosed with a kidney stone.
“I literally woke up one day and I was peeing straight blood,” Catherine explained in her video. She admitted to being “addicted to protein” before the health scare.
The Dangers of the Carnivore Diet
Following her hospitalization, Catherine called the carnivore diet “stupid” and warned her followers to avoid excessive protein intake. She emphasized the importance of not neglecting fiber in the diet.
Health experts have long warned about the risks of consuming too much protein, particularly for individuals with pre-existing kidney issues. The Mayo Clinic states that high-protein diets can place strain on the kidneys, making it difficult for the body to filter waste properly. Additionally, these diets tend to lack fiber, which can lead to digestive problems such as constipation and headaches. Excessive consumption of red and processed meats can also increase the risk of heart disease.
Public Reactions
Despite the warnings, some social media users dismissed Catherine’s experience, while others thanked her for raising awareness about the dangers of extreme diets.
Catherine’s case is not unique. A man in Florida, who followed the carnivore diet for about eight months, also faced serious health issues. He was hospitalized after developing painful, ooze-producing nodules on his palms, elbows, and the soles of his feet.
The incidents highlight the potential health risks associated with extreme dietary trends.
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