The 9 Best Animal-Based Foods

Touted by Jordan Peterson, Joe Rogan, and many other celebrities who literally go against the grain, the animal-based diet has become more than a diet. To many, it’s a way of life.

The diet mirrors that of existing hunter-gatherer peoples around the world, as well as the diet of our ancestors, who prioritized nutrient-dense foods like meat and organs. Leaves, flowers, insects, and other foods are believed by many to have been eaten more for survival between hunts, fishing excursions, and fruit gathering.

Even though vegans, vegetarians, and animal rights activists advise against any consumption of animal products, more studies demonstrate the countless advantages of doing so. Autoimmune disorders are disappearing. Lifelong gastrointestinal disorders are eliminated. Many adopters even claim to have reversed Krohn’s disease.

Choosing the best animal-based foods depends on things like how healthy they are, how good they taste, and, of course, personal preference.

Dr. Paul Saladino, the author of the wildly popular book The Carnivore Code, popularized the term “animal-based.”

As a general rule, Saladino recommends embracing the following foods:

• Meat and organs
• Raw dairy and eggs
• Bone broth & connective tissue
• The least toxic plant foods (avocado, berries, squash, cucumbers, apples, oranges, olives, honey, dates, etc)

Of course, the diet is as much about what you cut out as it is about what you take in. He recommends cutting out all seed oils, processed sugars, leaves, stems, nuts, seeds, grains, legumes, and alcohol.

Potatoes, peppers, tomatoes, oats, coffee, tea, and mushrooms don’t make the cut either. Things like white rice are not recommended; however, Saladino considers it to be the least toxic grain.

So what animal-based foods are best? Here are some examples of nutrient-dense animal-based foods:

Eggs are a great source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. They are also versatile and can be prepared in many ways.

Fish is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for heart health. Some of the best options include salmon, tuna, and sardines.

Beef and game meats: Beef is an excellent source of protein. It’s packed with nutrients such as iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. Game meats like venison, elk, and bison are lean protein sources and typically contain fewer calories than beef.

Raw or A2 dairy products: Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt are rich in calcium, protein, and vitamin D. If you cannot find raw dairy, A2 dairy may suffice, as it’s more easily digested.

Shellfish: Seafood such as oysters, mussels, and clams are high in zinc, iron, and other minerals.

Organ meats like liver, heart, and kidneys are nutrient-dense and rich in vitamins and minerals. However, they should be consumed in moderation due to their high levels of cholesterol.

Bone broth is made from simmering animal bones and connective tissue. It is rich in collagen, amino acids, and minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphoros.

Butter, ghee, and tallow are sources of saturated fat, but they can be a healthy addition to a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. They are also rich in vitamins A, D, and K.

Low-toxin plant foods: This includes avocado, olives, squash, berries, cucumber (with seeds and skin removed), and honey.

It’s important to remember that when choosing what to eat, you should think about your own health needs and preferences. Be sure to consult your doctor before making any drastic dietary changes.