Quick answer: A ketovore diet is a flexible, animal-based, low-carb way of eating built on nutrient-dense meats, organ meats, fish, eggs and animal fats, with smaller amounts of low-carb plants, berries and occasional starchy foods. It may support blood sugar, satiety and nutrient density for some people. It is not right for everyone, so it is best done with guidance and lab monitoring.
Key takeaways
A ketovore diet is a flexible, animal-based, low-carb pattern built on meats, organ meats, fish, eggs and animal fats.
Smaller amounts of low-carb plants, berries and occasional starches are included, which sets it apart from a strict carnivore approach.
It is not right for everyone, so the article recommends guidance and lab monitoring before and during the change.
Why some people use a ketovore approach
People use a ketovore approach for steadier blood sugar and insulin, and for high-quality protein to protect muscle. It also emphasizes nutrient-dense foods rich in vitamin A, B12, zinc, iron, selenium and CoQ10, and fewer ultra-processed foods.
Foods to prioritize
- Beef, lamb and bison
- Organ meats such as liver and heart, a few times a week
- Fatty fish and shellfish such as salmon, sardines and oysters
- Pasture-raised eggs
- Poultry and pork
- Butter, ghee, tallow and hard cheeses, if tolerated
- Bone broth
Foods to include in moderation
Avocados, olives, leafy greens and non-starchy vegetables fit in moderation, along with small portions of berries and occasional sweet fruit. Raw honey in small amounts and occasional squash or sweet potato, especially around exercise, can also have a place.
Foods to limit
It helps to limit refined sugar and grains, highly processed seed oils, and ultra-processed snacks and fast food. High-carb foods may also be limited, depending on your goals.
Getting started
Build most meals around animal foods, adding low-carb plants for variety and fiber, and pair this with time-restricted eating if it suits you. Choose quality sources, and track your energy, digestion and labs so you can adjust.
Who should be cautious
Talk with your provider first if you have kidney disease, are pregnant or breastfeeding, take insulin or other glucose-lowering medications, have a history of disordered eating, or have very high LDL cholesterol. Some people see LDL rise significantly on high-fat, low-carb diets, so a lipid panel is worth checking (see understanding your lipids). For a broader keto overview, see the ketogenic diet.
Nutrition and healthy aging
Steady blood sugar and nutrient density support nutrient-sensing pathways, mitochondria and lower inflammation. The best longevity diet is one that is nutrient-dense, keeps your metabolic markers healthy and that you can sustain.
When to see a naturopathic doctor
It may be time to see a naturopathic doctor if you want to try a ketovore or low-carb approach safely, or if you take medications for blood sugar or blood pressure. The same is true if your cholesterol changed on a low-carb diet, or if you want a personalized longevity nutrition plan.
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Questions to bring to your clinician
These questions can help you get the most out of your next visit.
Is a ketovore way of eating appropriate for my health history, and which labs should we monitor?
How would a ketovore way of eating fit with the way I eat now and the foods I enjoy?
Which foods, labs or signs would be worth tracking if I try a ketovore way of eating?
How could a ketovore way of eating be adjusted to suit my own health history and needs?
Frequently asked questions
What is a ketovore diet?
An animal-based, low-carb diet that allows small amounts of plants, fruit and honey.
Is ketovore the same as carnivore?
No. Carnivore is animal foods only; ketovore includes some low-carb plants.
Will ketovore raise my cholesterol?
It can for some people. Check a lipid panel before and after starting.
Is a ketovore diet safe long term?
Long-term research is limited. Monitoring with your provider is wise.
Sources
- Goldenberg JZ, et al. Efficacy and safety of low and very low carbohydrate diets for type 2 diabetes remission: systematic review and meta-analysis of published and unpublished randomized trial data. BMJ 2021. PMID: 33441384. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7804828/
- Bauer J, et al. Evidence-based recommendations for optimal dietary protein intake in older people: a position paper from the PROT-AGE Study Group. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2013. PMID: 23867520. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23867520/
- Norwitz NG, et al. Elevated LDL Cholesterol with a Carbohydrate-Restricted Diet: Evidence for a “Lean Mass Hyper-Responder” Phenotype. Curr Dev Nutr 2022. PMID: 35106434. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8796252/
- Lennerz BS, Mey JT, Henn OH, Ludwig DS. Behavioral Characteristics and Self-Reported Health Status among 2029 Adults Consuming a “Carnivore Diet”. Curr Dev Nutr 2021. PMID: 34934897. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8684475/
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health: Ketogenic Diet
- MedlinePlus: Dietary Proteins
This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It does not replace an individual evaluation. Talk with your healthcare provider before starting supplements or changing medications, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or managing a health condition.
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