We all know that the carnivore diet is one of the simplest dietary lifestyles you can possibly follow, but what to drink on the carnivore diet…? Because it is an all animal diet, hydration can be difficult to balance on the carnivore diet. It is important to know which beverages you can and cannot have so that you are able stay hydrated, but more importantly, within the extents of this diet. Here are six tips on how to maintain hydration and also the best drinks for Carnivores.
1. Water – The Foundation of Hydration
The first and most glaring is the main beverage on a carnivore diet; water. It is the most basic and purest form of consuming water. Regardless of whether you are on a diet or not, water is an integral part of your body to remain functional. Clean filtered water is a carnivore diet must. Drink spring water or mineral water along with important electrolytes that it contains such as calcium and magnesium which are important for your health.
For some variety you can add a pinch of high-quality sea salt or Himalayan pink salt to your water which will help refill those lost electrolytes. Other than that, some people find that they get low on sodium when they go carnivores and then end up either tired or dizzy. It will absorb water and work on maintaining what your body really needs.
2. Bone Broth – A Nutrient-Packed Hydration Option
Bone broth is another good hydrating option for the carnivore diet. The broth is not only tasty but nutritious – full of collagen, vitamins, and minerals. Bone broth is prepared by boiling the bones of animals over a span of hours or even days to extract key nutrients that promote bone and skin health, along with digestion functionality.
In other words, bone broth will keep you hydrated in a big way, without overloading your body with liquid and can replenish electrolytes lost! Others enjoy a warm cup of bone broth as a way to replace their morning coffee while getting an early nutrient boost to begin the day on the right foot. If you drink bone broth, it must be homemade or from a reputable source without added sugars, but also not vegetables bones as that may mess with the carnivore diet.
3. Coffee – A Controversial but Permissible Drink
The carnivore diet actually shows a little bit of sympathy for coffee lovers. Have black coffee but with caution Coffee is not, strictly speaking, an animal product, which may explain why it is so widely tolerated by carnivores for its ability to sharpen focus and keep you awake in a time of hunger when anything replicating food can be off-limits.
Nevertheless, coffee is best consumed in moderation as it may also act as a diuretic so drinking it excessively can lead to dehydration. If you are caffeine-sensitive, or if coffee simply does not combine well with your carnivore lifestyle, start reducing the amount of coffee (or switch to decaf) for even better results. Remember: no additives (milk, creamers, sugar etc), except if they are from animal fat, such as butter or ghee.
4. Tea – Herbal and Green Tea in Moderation
Similar to coffee, tea is a controversial beverage on the carnivore diet. While most herbal and green teas come from plants, some people following the carnivore diet choose to include them in their hydration plan, as long as they’re consumed in moderation. The key is to avoid any tea that contains added flavours, sweeteners, or non-carnivore-approved ingredients.
If you choose to drink tea, consider options like unsweetened black tea or green tea, which can provide mild caffeine and a soothing beverage option. Always monitor your body’s reaction to tea, as some individuals report sensitivity to plant-based compounds while on the carnivore diet.
5. Electrolyte Drinks – Homemade Options
One challenge many people face on the carnivore diet is maintaining the right balance of electrolytes. With the absence of plant-based foods, you’re missing out on potassium, magnesium, and sodium sources. Drinking homemade electrolyte water is a great way to stay hydrated and ensure you’re getting enough essential minerals.
To make a simple electrolyte drink, combine water with a pinch of sea salt and an optional small amount of magnesium powder or potassium chloride. This drink can help replenish the electrolytes you lose through sweating or other activities. Avoid commercial electrolyte drinks that often contain sugars, artificial flavors, or sweeteners, as these are not permitted on the carnivore diet.
6. Raw Milk – A Nutrient-Rich Beverage for Some Carnivores
For those who tolerate dairy, raw milk can be a nutrient-rich beverage option on the carnivore diet. It provides ample amounts of calcium, vitamins, and healthy fats. However, not all carnivores include dairy in their diet, as some people experience digestive issues or allergies to lactose.
If you choose to include raw milk, ensure that it comes from grass-fed, pasture-raised animals for the highest quality nutrients. It’s also important to note that pasteurized milk is typically not allowed on the carnivore diet, as the pasteurization process destroys many of the natural enzymes and nutrients found in raw milk. Always monitor how your body responds to dairy, as it may not suit everyone on the carnivore diet.
Conclusion
Staying hydrated on the carnivore diet is simpler than it may seem. By focusing on water, bone broth, and a few other permissible drinks, you can maintain your hydration and ensure you’re getting the necessary electrolytes and nutrients. While some beverages like coffee and tea are up for debate, it’s essential to listen to your body and adjust accordingly.
By following these six hydration tips, you can stay fully hydrated and thrive on the carnivore diet. Just remember to prioritize water and supplement with bone broth and homemade electrolyte drinks when necessary.
FAQs
1. Can I drink flavored water on the carnivore diet?
No, flavored water typically contains additives or sweeteners that are not allowed on the carnivore diet.
2. Is sparkling water allowed on the carnivore diet?
Yes, sparkling water without added sweeteners or artificial flavors is allowed. It provides a refreshing alternative to regular water.
3. Can I drink alcohol on the carnivore diet?
Alcohol is generally not recommended on the carnivore diet. However, some may include dry, unflavored spirits like vodka or whiskey in moderation.
4. How much water should I drink on the carnivore diet?
It varies depending on your body size, activity level, and environment, but a good general rule is to drink when you’re thirsty. You can aim for half your body weight in ounces of water daily.
5. Why do I need to add salt to my water?
On the carnivore diet, your sodium levels may drop due to the lack of processed foods. Adding sea salt or Himalayan salt helps maintain your electrolyte balance.
