Lets talk about can you drink milk on the carnivore diet or not? The carnivore diet is one of the strictest elimination diets out there focusing entirely on animal based foods.
But when it comes to milk, things get a little tricky. Some people swear by it, while others say it’s a no-go. So, what’s the deal?
Table of Contents
Can you actually drink milk on the carnivore diet, or will it kick you out of your primal eating zone? Let’s break it down.
Carnivore Diet Textbook Defination!
The carnivore diet is an all-meat, all-the-time way of eating. It’s built on the idea that humans thrive on animal products and should eliminate carbs completely. The diet typically includes:
- Beef, pork, lamb, chicken, and fish
- Organ meats (liver, heart, kidneys, etc.)
- Eggs
- Animal fats like butter and tallow
- Some people include dairy, while others avoid it
Can You Drink Milk on the Carnivore Diet
Milk is technically an animal product but it also contains lactose which is a type of sugar (aka a carb!). This is where the debate starts. Here are the key points for both sides:
Why Some People Drink Milk on Carnivore
✅ It’s animal-based – It comes from cows, so it fits the carnivore theme.
✅ Good source of fats & protein – Whole milk has a nice balance of both.
✅ Great for muscle building – The protein is excellent for muscle recovery.
Why Some People Avoid Milk on Carnivore
❌ Contains carbs – Even whole milk has around 12g of sugar per cup.
❌ Can cause digestive issues – Many adults are lactose intolerant without realizing it.
❌ Might cause inflammation – Some believe dairy triggers joint pain and bloating.
Best Milk Options for the Carnivore Diet
If you’re determined to include dairy, some options are better than others:
1️⃣ Raw Milk – Some carnivore dieters prefer unpasteurized milk, arguing that it’s more natural and easier to digest.
2️⃣ Heavy Cream – Almost no carbs, just fat and a tiny bit of protein. A great option for coffee lovers.
3️⃣ Cheese & Butter – While not milk itself, aged cheeses and butter are very low in lactose and widely accepted on carnivore.
4️⃣ Kefir (maybe?) – Fermented dairy has less lactose, but opinions are mixed.
Final Verdict: Can You Drink Milk on Carnivore?
The answer depends on your goals and body’s response. If you’re going for strict carnivore, milk might be out due to the lactose (carbs). But if you’re flexible, raw milk or heavy cream could work.
The best way? Experiment and see how your body reacts. If you feel great, go for it. If not, stick to meat, eggs, and water.
At the end of the day, the carnivore diet isn’t one-size-fits-all—so do what works best for you!
