How come the carnivore diet does not need fiber?

The carnivore diet is often debated for not requiring fiber, as highlighted by several experts. Here's a summary of their viewpoints:

1. Gut Adaptation: Dr. Dominic D'Agostino suggests humans are adaptable and can do well without fiber, though it might be optimal for overall health. He notes that dietary flexibility is remarkable, but emphasizes the balance in diet might still be beneficial 1.

2. Health Outcomes: Paul Saladino challenges the idea that fiber is necessary for gut health, citing experiences of carnivore dieters who report gastrointestinal improvements without fiber. He stresses that clinical health is more indicative of a healthy microbiome than specific bacterial compositions 2 3.

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     1

     Fiber and the Carnivore Diet

     02:21:19
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     2

     Fiber and the Microbiome

     00:43:11
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     3

     Gut Microbiome Diversity

     00:50:22
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     4

     Carnivore Diet Insights

     00:25:09
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     5

     Rethinking Fiber's Role

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3. Dietary Diversity: Ben Greenfield notes that while a carnivore diet might not inherently provide fiber or polyphenols, incorporating elements like organ meats and supplements can compensate for potential nutritional gaps. He emphasizes the benefits of a varied diet for longevity and reduced mortality risk 4.

4. Fiber's Role: Experts like Anthony Gustin suggest that fiber's role in diet might be overstated. He argues that certain nutrients from animals may offer similar benefits as fiber in maintaining gut health and integrity 5.

While some individuals thrive on a carnivore diet, the overall consensus suggests that fiber remains a valuable dietary component for many, offering benefits such as improved cardiovascular health and reduced risks of specific diseases. The evidence for long-term health without fiber on a strict carnivore diet remains limited.