Summary
Highlights
The speaker recounts feeling sluggish and unwell, leading to a doctor's visit where he was diagnosed with diabetes, with an A1C of 11.1. His grandfather had suffered from diabetes, which added to his concern. He was initially prescribed Metformin and blood pressure medication, which improved his A1C to 6.5, but led to severe stomach issues, forcing him to stop the medication.
His previous doctor recommended a diet of skinless chicken and white rice, which the speaker later realized was detrimental for his blood sugar, comparing rice to Snicker Bars for his diabetic condition. Dissatisfied with the advice, he began researching the carnivore diet in July 2024 (referring to a past timeframe), prompted by a desire to get healthy before retirement.
The speaker clarifies that his 'carnivore' diet is a low-carb approach, aiming for 'zero carbs' daily, though he admits to consuming small amounts from cheese and eggs. He started the diet at 220 lbs, having been overweight for most of his adult life. He highlights his love for carbs and sweets, noting that even a small taste triggers intense cravings, making complete avoidance necessary for him.
He initially followed a strict carnivore diet, but found himself falling off track during holidays and trips, particularly due to the abundance of foods he enjoyed. However, after making a doctor's appointment in May 2025 (again, referring to a past timeframe), he discovered his A1C had dropped to 5.3%, making him non-diabetic. His new doctor, a diabetes specialist, confirmed the positive progress.
Despite the positive A1C, his LDL cholesterol was high, and his doctor suggested statins, which he declined after further research. After some inconsistencies with the diet, his A1C rose slightly to 5.7%, categorizing him as pre-diabetic. This prompted him to fully rededicate to a strict carnivore diet, acknowledging the trade-off of not being able to enjoy seasonal fruits and sweets.
The speaker addresses the concern about the cost of a carnivore diet, explaining that he eats less on it. He mentions consuming eggs from his own chickens (though noting it's not cost-saving), discounted meat from Aldi's and Sam's Club (like pre-cooked hamburger patties and all-beef hot dogs), and finds deals at Amish discount grocery stores. He also enjoys pork rinds and a homemade snack of seasoned ground beef with eggs and mayonnaise.
He concludes by emphasizing that the carnivore diet 'saved him' by reversing his diabetes when medication couldn't. He plans to remain strict with the diet and will provide an update on his cholesterol levels in a few months, hoping to see continued improvement.