Jenny McCarthy, the 52-year-old model and author, recently opened up about her struggles with veganism, revealing that the plant-based diet nearly led her to the brink of death.
After feeling “very ill” on the vegan diet, McCarthy turned to the carnivore diet, a meat-heavy eating plan that has become increasingly popular among influencers.
The Toll of Veganism on McCarthy’s Health
McCarthy, who once endorsed Health Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr., shared her story on the Heal Squad podcast with Maria Menounos.
She explained how she became “so ill” from following a vegan diet that she felt exhausted, fatigued, and “like I was literally dying.”
The vegan lifestyle, which excludes all animal products and focuses on plant-based foods like vegetables, grains, nuts, and fruits, didn’t sit well with her body, especially since she’s allergic to soy—one of the key staples in vegan diets.
Turning to the Carnivore Diet for Health Relief
After experiencing these severe health issues, McCarthy decided to try the carnivore diet, which focuses solely on meat, poultry, seafood, eggs, and dairy.
She admitted that initially, it felt like a drastic change, especially since she was used to eating lighter foods like salmon.
However, McCarthy now claims that switching to the carnivore diet has been “incredible” for her and has significantly improved her health.
Despite the lack of scientific studies supporting the effectiveness of the carnivore diet, followers of the eating plan believe it has helped them with conditions like depression, anxiety, arthritis, obesity, and diabetes.
The Vegan Diet’s Hidden Risks
While the vegan diet has been praised for its health benefits—such as weight loss and a reduced risk of heart disease and Type 2 diabetes—it’s not without its drawbacks.
A study conducted in 2024 revealed that many plant-based foods, especially processed alternatives like vegan sausages, burgers, and dairy replacements, can be loaded with sodium and unhealthy fats, which could raise blood pressure and contribute to weight gain.
In fact, over 700 plant-based products sold in supermarkets were evaluated, and researchers found that products like tofu and coconut milk contained excessive amounts of sodium and saturated fats.
These findings suggest that some vegan foods, especially the processed ones, may not be as healthy as they are marketed.
Ultra-Processed Vegan Foods and Their Health Risks
Experts have long warned about the dangers of ultra-processed foods, including those marketed as “healthy” vegan alternatives.
A study of over 118,000 participants found that consuming ultra-processed plant-based foods like vegan burgers and sausages is linked to a 15% higher risk of heart attacks and strokes.
These foods are often high in fat, salt, and sugar, which can have detrimental effects on heart health.
However, when consuming a balanced vegetarian diet with plenty of whole plant-based foods—like fruits, vegetables, and legumes—there are significant health benefits.
Research has shown that vegetarians who eat fewer ultra-processed foods experience a lower risk of heart disease and cardiovascular problems.
The Risks of a Carnivore Diet
As more people turn to the carnivore diet, experts are cautioning about its potential long-term effects. A diet high in red meat and other animal products can lead to the production of uric acid, which may form crystals and lead to kidney stones.
Additionally, a diet lacking in plant-based foods can result in deficiencies in important micronutrients like magnesium, potassium, and vitamin C, all of which are essential for maintaining overall health.
Dr. Shireen Kassam, the founder of Plant-Based Health Professionals, warns that a heavy reliance on animal-based foods can increase the risk of conditions like diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and even dementia due to its high levels of saturated fat and cholesterol.
Furthermore, the lack of fiber in a carnivore diet can lead to digestive problems and long-term health issues.
The Bottom Line: Finding a Balanced Approach
While the carnivore diet has shown positive short-term results for some people, including McCarthy, it’s crucial to recognize that a balanced diet—including a variety of plant-based and animal-based foods—provides a broader range of essential nutrients.
Health experts suggest that eliminating entire food groups, whether they be plant-based or animal-based, can have significant consequences on your long-term health.
Dr. Kassam argues that while short-term benefits from eliminating processed foods are possible, a carnivore diet is not sustainable in the long run.
It’s important to approach dietary changes with care and ensure that all essential nutrients are being met to avoid potential health risks.
In conclusion, McCarthy’s story highlights how different diets work differently for everyone.
While the carnivore diet may be beneficial for some, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before making drastic changes to your eating habits.