US Man Ate Only Cheese, Beef, And Butter For 8 Months, Faces Major Health Issues (Image Credits: iStock)
A man in his 40s from Florida was hospitalized after developing unusual and concerning symptoms linked to his extreme eating habits. He had been following a strict carnivore diet for eight months, consuming about nine pounds of high-fat and high-cholesterol foods like butter, cheese, and hamburger patties daily. While the diet initially helped him lose weight and feel more energetic, it eventually caused serious health problems.
Unusual Symptoms
The man was admitted to a hospital in Tampa after noticing yellowish, waxy nodules on his palms, elbows, and feet. These nodules were even oozing a strange substance, which alarmed both him and the doctors.
Tests showed his cholesterol levels had soared to over 1,000 mg/dL, far above the healthy range of under 200 mg/dL. Cholesterol levels higher than 240 mg/dL are considered dangerously high. Before starting the carnivore diet, his cholesterol had ranged between 210 and 300 mg/dL.
Diagnosis: Xanthelasma
Doctors diagnosed the man with xanthelasma, a condition where high cholesterol levels lead to fatty deposits forming under the skin. These deposits are usually seen around the eyes but can also appear on other parts of the body, like the palms and feet, as in this rare case.
Signs and Symptoms of XanthelasmaXanthelasma often signals very high cholesterol levels in the body. Some common symptoms include:
- Yellowish patches or lumps: These soft, raised deposits are most often found near the eyes but can appear elsewhere.
- Skin irritation or oozing: In severe cases, the nodules may leak or cause discomfort.
- No pain or itching: While xanthelasma is typically painless, it is a visible sign of a health issue.
- Linked to lipid disorders: It often points to high levels of fats in the blood, which increase the risk of heart disease.
If left untreated, the high cholesterol that causes xanthelasma can lead to serious conditions like heart attacks, strokes, or other heart-related problems.
The Risks of Extreme Diets
This case highlights the dangers of extreme diets, especially those high in fat and cholesterol. The carnivore diet, which eliminates all plant-based foods and focuses on meat, butter, and other animal products, has gained attention for its supposed health benefits. Many people claim it helps with weight loss and boosts energy, but experts warn it can lead to severe health risks over time.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Dietary Guidelines for Americans strongly recommend a balanced diet instead of restrictive or extreme eating plans. A healthy diet should include:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains
- Low-fat dairy products
- Lean protein sources like fish, poultry, beans, and nuts
For example, the Dietary Guidelines suggest adults consume about 5.5 ounces of meat per day alongside a variety of other healthy foods.
Word Of Caution
The doctors who documented this case in JAMA Cardiology stressed the importance of keeping cholesterol levels in check. They explained that this patient’s experience shows how diets can significantly impact health, especially when taken to extremes.
Despite warnings, some influencers continue to promote high-fat diets. Recently, a former vegan gained attention on social media for eating a diet of butter, ground beef, and 20 eggs daily. Others advocate similar eating patterns, ignoring the risks.
If you notice yellowish plaques on your skin or have concerns about your cholesterol levels, it’s important to see a doctor. Eating a balanced diet with a variety of foods is the safest way to maintain good health and prevent serious conditions.
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