New diet trends keep emerging every day, and many of them are causing serious health issues. One such trend making waves on social media is the "carnivore diet," which people are following without knowing the risks. For Dallas-based social media influencer Eve Catherine, this diet experiment took a dangerous turn. The 23-year-old content creator embraced the carnivore diet—a restrictive plan that includes only animal-based foods—hoping for health benefits. But what started as a high-protein routine soon led to a medical emergency, unbearable pain, and a hospital stay, making her realise the dangers of extreme dieting.

The Carnivore Diet and Eve Catherine’s Health Scare

Eve Catherine followed a strict high-protein diet, eating two to three eggs for breakfast, high-protein yogurt for lunch, and a New York strip steak for dinner. During a routine check-up, her doctor noticed high protein levels in her urine, a possible sign of kidney issues. But Eve ignored the warning, thinking her diet was good for her health and fitness.

Everything changed when she woke up one morning and saw blood in her urine. In severe pain, she was rushed to the hospital, where doctors gave her morphine for relief. After several tests, she was diagnosed with a kidney stone, a condition often linked to high-protein diets.

“I literally woke up one day, and I was peeing straight blood,” she revealed in a TikTok video, warning her followers about the dangers of extreme dieting. She also admitted to having an unhealthy obsession with protein, which she now regrets. Reflecting on her experience, she strongly criticized the diet, saying, “The carnivore diet is so stupid.”

The Risks of a High-Protein Diet

Health experts have long warned against consuming excessive amounts of protein, particularly for individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions. According to the Mayo Clinic, diets high in protein can strain the kidneys by increasing the production of nitrogenous waste, which the organs must filter out. Over time, this can contribute to kidney damage, especially in those predisposed to kidney disease.

High-protein diets, particularly those dominated by red meat, can lead to other health concerns, including:

Carnivore Diet: A Controversial Trend

Despite these risks, the carnivore diet has gained significant popularity on social media. It is often followed by influencers and even celebrities like podcaster Joe Rogan. The diet primarily consists of meat, fish, eggs, and other animal products while eliminating all plant-based foods, including fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes.

Advocates claim it can help with weight loss, reduce inflammation, and improve energy levels. However, medical professionals argue that it lacks essential nutrients such as fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants found in plant-based foods.

Catherine’s case is not the only cautionary tale linked to this restrictive diet. Another influencer previously shared on Instagram that the carnivore diet had “destroyed my kidneys,” raising further concerns about the long-term effects of eliminating plant-based foods entirely.

Experts Advise Balanced Nutrition Over Extreme Diets

Dietitians and medical experts explain that while protein is essential for muscle growth and overall health, balance is key. They recommend consuming a well-rounded diet that includes lean proteins, healthy fats, complex carbohydrates, and fibre to maintain optimal health.

Restrictive diets, like the carnivore diet, may offer short-term results, but they are risky because of their potential long-term health consequences. Instead, experts suggest that individuals focus on sustainable and diverse eating habits that support overall well-being.

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