Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Role of Vitamin C in the Body
3. Do You Need Vitamin C on a Carnivore Diet?
4. Best Sources of Vitamin C in Animal Products
5. Recommendations for Supplementation
6. Signs of Vitamin C Deficiency
7. Conclusion
8. FAQ

When embarking on a carnivore diet, many of us often grapple with the notion that we're foregoing essential nutrients, particularly vitamin C. The idea that a diet based solely on animal products might lead to deficiencies raises concerns for those considering this lifestyle. So, how do we ensure we're meeting our vitamin C needs while enjoying the benefits of a carnivore diet? In this post, we’ll explore the relationship between vitamin C and a carnivore diet, the best sources of this vital nutrient within the diet, and how to maintain our overall health without compromising our commitment to an all-meat regimen.

Introduction

Did you know that scurvy, a disease once rampant among sailors and explorers, is directly linked to vitamin C deficiency? While this historical context might seem far removed from our modern dietary choices, the question remains relevant: Can one thrive on a carnivore diet without sufficient vitamin C? With the exclusion of plant-based foods, the concern about obtaining adequate vitamin C naturally emerges.

Vitamin C is crucial for various bodily functions, including collagen synthesis, immune support, and antioxidant protection. Despite the common belief that vitamin C primarily comes from fruits and vegetables, recent studies suggest that we may still obtain this essential nutrient through animal-based foods, albeit in smaller amounts. Our mission at BUBS Naturals is to support your journey towards health and wellness while honoring the legacy of Glen “BUB” Doherty, and that includes understanding how to optimize your nutrient intake on a carnivore diet.

In this blog, we will delve into the following aspects:

• The role of vitamin C in the body
• Do you really need vitamin C on a carnivore diet?
• Best sources of vitamin C within animal products
• Recommendations for supplementation if necessary
• Signs of vitamin C deficiency and how to address them

By the end of this post, we hope to empower you with the knowledge to navigate your vitamin C intake on a carnivore diet confidently.

The Role of Vitamin C in the Body

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, plays a multitude of roles in maintaining our health:

• Collagen synthesis: Vitamin C is essential for the production of collagen, a protein that supports skin, joints, and connective tissues.
• Immune function: It aids in the production of white blood cells, which are crucial for fighting infections.
• Antioxidant properties: Vitamin C helps neutralize free radicals, protecting our cells from oxidative stress.
• Iron absorption: It enhances iron absorption from plant sources, which can be important for those consuming a mostly meat-based diet.

While the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for vitamin C is 90 mg for men and 75 mg for women, some studies suggest that when carbohydrate intake is low, such as in a carnivore diet, our vitamin C needs may also decrease.

Do You Need Vitamin C on a Carnivore Diet?

The question of whether we need vitamin C on a carnivore diet is complex.

1. Reduced Needs: Research indicates that individuals consuming a low-carbohydrate diet may not require as much vitamin C. This is because glucose and vitamin C share similar absorption pathways in the body. When carbohydrates are limited, the competition for these pathways diminishes, potentially lowering the overall requirement for vitamin C.

2. Natural Sources in Animal Products: Contrary to the belief that meat lacks vitamin C, certain animal products do contain this nutrient. Organ meats, seafood, and some dairy products can provide adequate amounts of vitamin C without the need for supplementation.

Best Sources of Vitamin C in Animal Products

While fruits and vegetables are often the go-to sources of vitamin C, we can still find beneficial amounts in various animal-based foods. Here are some of the best sources:

Organ Meats

• Beef Liver: A powerhouse of nutrients, beef liver contains about 4 mg of vitamin C per 100 grams. It’s not only rich in vitamin C but also packed with essential vitamins and minerals.
• Beef Spleen: This organ meat is particularly high in vitamin C, offering approximately 50 mg per 100 grams, making it an excellent choice for those on a carnivore diet.

Seafood

• Oysters: These shellfish provide around 12 mg of vitamin C per 100 grams, making them a delicious and nutritious option.
• Fish Roe (Caviar): Salmon roe is another great source, containing about 4.5 mg of vitamin C per 100 grams.

Dairy Products

While dairy is not a primary source of vitamin C, some variants can contribute to your intake:

• Cheese and Milk: Though they contain minimal amounts of vitamin C (up to 1 mg), they can still be part of your overall nutrient intake.

Muscle Meat

Interestingly, fresh, unprocessed muscle meats do contain trace amounts of vitamin C. However, cooking methods can affect this content. It's best to prepare meats with minimal cooking to maximize vitamin retention.

Recommendations for Supplementation

If you're concerned about your vitamin C intake on a carnivore diet, supplementation can be a viable option, especially for those who may not consume enough organ meats. However, it's crucial to choose a supplement that aligns with your dietary preferences:

• Whole Food Vitamin C Supplements: These supplements are derived from natural sources and can provide the benefits of vitamin C without synthetic additives. Always check for the source to ensure it’s compatible with your diet.

At BUBS Naturals, we emphasize clean, effective ingredients in our products. While we focus primarily on our collagen peptides and MCT oil powder, we encourage you to explore high-quality vitamin C supplements if you feel it necessary.

Signs of Vitamin C Deficiency

Even though vitamin C deficiency is rare among those consuming a varied diet, it can occur, particularly in restrictive eating patterns. Symptoms may include:

• Fatigue and weakness
• Joint and muscle pain
• Slow wound healing
• Swollen, bleeding gums
• Bruising easily

If you experience any of these symptoms, it may be worthwhile to assess your vitamin C intake and consider incorporating more organ meats or a supplement into your diet.

Conclusion

Navigating the carnivore diet can be a rewarding journey towards improved health, but it’s essential to remain vigilant about our nutrient intake. While vitamin C is often associated with fruits and vegetables, we can find ample sources within animal products that can meet our needs.

By focusing on organ meats, seafood, and maintaining a balanced approach to our diet, we can thrive on the carnivore diet without compromising our health. If concerns linger, consider a high-quality vitamin C supplement to support your wellness journey.

At BUBS Naturals, we believe in a life of adventure and wellness, staying true to our mission of providing clean, functional supplements while giving back to veteran-focused charities. Together, let’s embrace the carnivore lifestyle and discover the incredible benefits it can offer.

FAQ

What is the best source of vitamin C on a carnivore diet? The best sources of vitamin C on a carnivore diet include organ meats like beef liver and spleen, seafood such as oysters and fish roe, and some dairy products.

Do I need to take a vitamin C supplement on a carnivore diet? While many individuals can meet their vitamin C needs through organ meats and seafood, supplementation may be beneficial for those who do not consume these foods regularly.

How much vitamin C do I need on a carnivore diet? Most people may require as little as 10-20 mg of vitamin C daily when following a carnivore diet due to reduced carbohydrate intake, but individual needs may vary.

What are the symptoms of vitamin C deficiency? Symptoms of vitamin C deficiency can include fatigue, joint pain, slow wound healing, swollen gums, and easy bruising. If you experience these symptoms, consider evaluating your dietary intake.

Can I still get enough vitamin C if I only eat muscle meat? While muscle meat contains small amounts of vitamin C, it’s advisable to include organ meats and seafood to ensure adequate intake.