RFK Jr. Touts Rapid Weight Loss on Carnivore Diet

Experts say the restrictive diet is not sustainable long-term.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 8:38pm

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Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. recently shared that he lost 20 pounds in 20 days on a carnivore diet that also includes fermented foods. We asked a registered dietitian whether this diet is feasible for weight loss and overall health.

Why it matters

RFK Jr.'s high-profile endorsement of the carnivore diet has sparked interest, but experts warn the restrictive nature of the diet could lead to nutrient deficiencies and unsustainable weight loss if followed long-term.

The details

The carnivore diet consists mainly of meat and animal protein, which can help with satiety, metabolism, and blood sugar stabilization. However, it lacks important nutrients found in fruits, vegetables, and other plant-based foods, such as fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. While the addition of fermented foods helps provide some gut-healthy benefits, the diet overall is not considered a healthy, balanced approach.

  • In March 2026, RFK Jr. shared details about his carnivore diet and weight loss.
  • RFK Jr. said he lost 20 pounds in 20 days and 40% of his visceral fat in a month.

The players

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

The U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services who has publicly discussed following a carnivore diet.

Theresa Gentile

A registered dietitian and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics who provided expert commentary on the sustainability of RFK Jr.'s diet.

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What they’re saying

“The carnivore diet mainly includes meat and animal protein. It is rich in complete proteins, which contain all the essential amino acids that help build muscle mass. This diet helps keep you full longer, supports metabolism, and stabilizes blood sugar.”

— Theresa Gentile, Registered Dietitian (verywellhealth.com)

“But it is high in saturated fat and cholesterol, and could possibly increase LDL cholesterol, especially for people who already have high cholesterol.”

— Theresa Gentile, Registered Dietitian (verywellhealth.com)

“Even though his diet includes fermented foods, you will miss out on some nutrients that you would get from eating whole food vegetables. You can't "eat the rainbow" with fermented foods.”

— Theresa Gentile, Registered Dietitian (verywellhealth.com)

What’s next

Experts recommend a more balanced, sustainable approach to weight loss and overall health, rather than the restrictive carnivore diet endorsed by RFK Jr.

The takeaway

While the carnivore diet may lead to rapid initial weight loss, it lacks important nutrients and is not considered a healthy, long-term dietary strategy. Experts caution against following overly restrictive diets that could lead to nutrient deficiencies and unsustainable weight changes.