Health Secretary Kennedy Jr. Touts Carnivore Diet, Experts Warn of Risks

RFK Jr.'s extreme diet choice sparks controversy over weight loss claims and long-term health concerns.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 7:09pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A minimalist, neon-outlined human figure in a powerful, dynamic pose against a dark background, conceptually representing the energy and controversy surrounding the carnivore diet.The carnivore diet's controversial popularity sparks debate over the balance between personal health choices and scientific evidence.Santa Monica Today

In a recent interview, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. revealed that he follows a carnivore diet, an animal-based regimen that eliminates vegetables, fruits, grains, and other plant-based foods. While Kennedy claims the diet has led to significant weight loss and improved mental clarity, health experts warn of the risks, including nutritional deficiencies, cholesterol issues, and other potential long-term health problems.

Why it matters

The carnivore diet is a highly controversial and restrictive approach that goes against mainstream nutritional guidelines. Kennedy's high-profile endorsement of the diet raises concerns about the spread of unproven health claims and the potential for people to adopt extreme dietary practices without understanding the risks.

The details

The carnivore diet, as explained by registered dietitian Jamie Nadeau, allows only meats, fish, and small amounts of dairy, while eliminating vegetables, fruits, grains, legumes, seeds, and nuts. Experts like Yasi Ansari, a senior dietitian at UCLA Health Santa Monica, argue that the diet's restrictive nature can lead to nutritional deficiencies and other health issues, such as increased cholesterol levels and risks of kidney problems and osteoporosis. While Kennedy claims to have lost 40% of his visceral fat and 20 pounds in 20 days, experts caution that short-term weight loss on restrictive diets is possible but unsustainable, and can even lead to disordered eating behaviors.

  • In a recent interview, Kennedy opened up about his carnivore diet.
  • Kennedy claims to have lost 40% of his visceral fat within a month and 20 pounds in just 20 days.

The players

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

The current U.S. Health Secretary who follows a carnivore diet.

Jamie Nadeau

A registered dietitian who explains the details of the carnivore diet.

Yasi Ansari

A senior dietitian at UCLA Health Santa Monica who criticizes the carnivore diet's restrictive nature and potential health risks.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It's extremely restrictive and cuts out many, many nutritious foods that are proven by research to be health-promoting.”

— Jamie Nadeau, Registered Dietitian

“Technically, it's possible to lose visceral fat on any diet in the short term. But in the long-term, it's not realistic and can cause other health issues. Not only do most people gain weight back, but they may develop disordered eating behaviors.”

— Yasi Ansari, Senior Dietitian, UCLA Health Santa Monica

What’s next

Experts suggest that the long-term sustainability and health benefits of the carnivore diet remain questionable, and they recommend a balanced, plant-rich diet as the healthier alternative.

The takeaway

The carnivore diet's extreme restrictions and lack of scientific evidence raise concerns about its potential long-term health consequences, despite claims of short-term weight loss. Health professionals advise caution and a more balanced approach to nutrition for sustainable well-being.