Which Condiments Can I Eat on The Carnivore Diet? (2024)

If you've just started or are thinking about starting the carnivore diet, it can be both exciting and challenging, especially when it comes to deciding which condiments align with this meat-centric lifestyle.

While the primary focus is on animal products, many people crave a bit of extra flavor to enhance their meals... I mean who really doesn't? So we're exploring what you can incorporate without straying from your dietary goals.

Let's talk about the carnivore diet and condiments!

What is the Carnivore Diet?

Very quickly, let's recap about the carnivore diet itself.

The focus is on consuming primarily animal products such as meat, seafood, eggs, and dairy (if tolerated). This means avoiding all plant-based foods like fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, and even some oils.

The theory behind this way of eating is that our bodies are better adapted to a diet of animal products and that the elimination of plant-based foods can have numerous health benefits, including weight loss, improved digestion, and increased energy levels.

Now when it comes to condiments and sauces on the carnivore diet, technically, if you are going to follow it by the "books" and be STRICT, then no condiments are allowed on the carnivore... only meat.

BUT, not everyone can or wants to do that.

You can still follow the carnivore diet and reap the benefits of it by not following by the "book" and do it as what people like to call "cheatovore".

So if you fall under the "cheatovore" category, here are some condiments that you can eat on a carnivore diet WHILE still getting all of the same benefits of following the diet.

What Condiments Can You Eat on the Carnivore Diet?

So back to condiments. While it may seem like all sauces, dips, and dressings are off the table on this diet, there are actually a few options that you can enjoy in moderation.

Whew, thank goodness!

Eating plain meat all day every day can get a little monotonous.

So, here are some condiments that you can add to your carnivore/cheatovore "approved" list:

Let's quickly take a look at each one of these, though, because some of them are OK... BUT only sometimes depending on how they were made.

S&P On The Carnivore Diet

Salt is composed of two minerals, sodium and chloride. Both are essential electrolytes that play crucial roles in our body's functioning.

When following the carnivore diet, it's important to consume adequate amounts of salt as you may not be getting enough from other sources like processed foods or vegetables.

Although salt and pepper are not technically meat based products, they are generally accepted on the carnivore diet as a way to enhance flavor and add some variety to your meals.

Mustards on the Carnivore Diet

What about mustards on the carnivore diet, are they ok? Well it really just depends.

Many store-bought mustards contain added sugars or sweeteners, which would not be allowed on the carnivore diet. So most store bought mustards are off limits.

You want to avoid sugar as much as possible.

However, there are some mustard brands that only use a few ingredients and spices or very little sugar in their ingredients list.

These simple types of mustards like My Evil Step Mothers Mustardcan be eaten on the carnivore diet (in moderation, of course).

Hot Sauce

Those who love spicy food may be feeling relieved that hot sauce is allowed on the carnivore diet. But like with any condiment, it's important to read the ingredients list and make sure there are no added sugars or preservatives.

Some popular hot sauces like Reaper Unleshed, contain very few ingredients, making them a great option for the carnivore/cheatovore diet.

Sugar-Free BBQ Sauce

Yes, you can have BBQ sauce on the carnivore diet... well, kind of. There are some sugar-free options available that use natural sweeteners like stevia or erythritol instead of traditional sugars.

But remember, moderation is key as these sauces may still contain ingredients that are not strictly carnivore-friendly.

Ranch Dressing (Homemade)

Making your own ranch dressing at home allows you to control the ingredients and ensure that it aligns with the carnivore diet principles.

The store bough ranch is typically not recommended here on the carnivore diet as it's full of ingredients that you can't have.

BUT there are plenty of homemade carnivore ranch recipesthat use ingredients like mayonnaise, sour cream, and spices to create a delicious dressing that is perfect for the carnivore diet.

Fish Sauce

This may not be your go-to condiment, but fish sauce is made from fermented anchovies and salt, making it a suitable option for those following the carnivore diet.

In fact, it has been used for centuries in Southeast Asian cuisine to add flavor and umami to dishes.

Which Condiments Are A No Go on Carnivore/Cheatovore Diet?

While the above condiments are generally accepted on the carnivore diet, there are some that you should avoid completely.

These include:

So while you may have to give up some of your favorite condiments on the carnivore diet, there are still plenty of options that can add flavor and variety to your meals. Just make sure to read ingredient labels carefully and choose simple options whenever possible.

FAQs

Condiments for the Carnivore and Cheatovore Diet

Adhering to the carnivore or cheatovore diet doesn't mean you have to sacrifice flavor in your meals. While some condiments traditionally contain ingredients that are not allowed, there are plenty of alternatives that can still provide you with a delightful taste experience.

Just make sure you are carefully checking ingredient labels and opting for simple, low-sugar options.

Homemade recipes for ranch dressing or choosing condiments like mustard and certain hot sauces can make all the difference in maintaining this lifestyle without feeling restricted.

Remember, the key is moderation and mindful selection of ingredients!