Diverticulitis is a digestive condition that can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain and bloating. Dietary changes can help manage the condition, and this may include avoiding red meat.

While more research is necessary, the carnivore diet may not be suitable for people with diverticulitis.

The carnivore diet involves consuming only animal-based foods and excluding plant-based foods. Many people on the carnivore diet focus on red meat.

A 2020 article found that higher consumption of meat was associated with a mild increase in the risk of developing acute diverticulitis. This was particularly true when consuming unprocessed red meat, such as:

  • beef
  • lamb
  • pork
  • hamburgers

However, the article also noted that higher consumption of poultry, a white meat, did not appear to increase the risk of acute diverticulitis.

A carnivore diet high in red meat could therefore increase the risk of diverticulitis or worsen existing symptoms. Further research is necessary to determine whether a carnivore diet that focuses on white meat could be suitable for people with diverticulitis.

It is also important to note that there is no clear evidence to suggest that following a carnivore diet can offer any specific health benefits compared with a more balanced diet.

Some dietary changes may be beneficial during a diverticulitis flare-up. These include:

  • choosing bland foods
  • avoiding foods that might cause irritation, which can include high fiber foods such as:
    • the skins of fruits and vegetables
    • onions
    • nuts
    • seeds
  • choosing low fiber foods

Examples of foods low in fiber include:

  • white rice
  • peeled root vegetables, including:
    • carrots
    • parsnips
    • potatoes
  • tofu
  • eggs
  • yogurt

Speak with a registered dietitian for more information about the carnivore diet, as well as advice on dietary changes that may help manage or reduce the risk of diverticulitis.