Rachel Ashby, a 43‑year‑old from Hertfordshire, has become a vocal advocate for the carnivore diet after adopting a regimen that can reach 5,000 calories a day, composed almost entirely of meat, eggs and butter. Her story, shared across social media and interviews, highlights a striking personal transformation but also raises questions about the long‑term safety of such an extreme eating pattern.
What sparked the shift to a meat‑only regimen?
In 2019, Ashby stumbled upon the carnivore movement while scrolling through health forums. The diet, popularised by figures such as Dr. Shawn Baker and Jordan Peterson, argues that eliminating plant matter can reduce inflammation, aid weight loss and even improve mental clarity. Initially skeptical, Ashby decided to test the theory for a few weeks. Within months she claimed to notice a “profound” shift in mood and energy, prompting her to make the diet permanent.
Reported health and aesthetic changes
According to Ashby, the most immediate benefit was a dramatic improvement in mental health. She describes moving from chronic depression and anxiety—where she would frequently cancel plans—to a state of confidence that now sees her comfortable on camera, in podcasts and at public events. She attributes this change to the steady supply of animal‑based protein and fats, which she says stabilised her blood‑sugar levels and reduced mood swings.
Physically, she reports the disappearance of joint pain that had plagued her for years, a return of regular menstrual cycles, and a noticeable rise in energy that allowed her to lift heavier weights without the usual post‑workout soreness (delayed‑onset muscle soreness). Her skin, hair and nails also allegedly improved: breakouts cleared, hair thickened and a “younger” appearance returned, according to her Instagram posts.
To complement her diet, Ashby launched Tallow Glow, a line of moisturisers made from purified grass‑fed cow fat (tallow). She claims the product amplifies the anti‑aging effects of the diet, providing a natural, cholesterol‑free alternative to conventional creams.
Scientific perspective and potential risks
Medical professionals urge caution. The UK’s NHS warns that high consumption of red and processed meat is linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer, heart disease and type‑2 diabetes. A diet that excludes fruits, vegetables and whole grains also lacks essential fibre, vitamins C and E, and phytonutrients that protect against oxidative stress. Research on high‑fat carnivore diets highlights that while some individuals report short‑term benefits, long‑term data are scarce and the potential for nutrient deficiencies remains high.
Nutritionists also point out that a 5,000‑calorie daily intake far exceeds the average adult requirement (around 2,000–2,500 calories). Excess calories, even from protein and fat, can lead to weight gain, elevated LDL cholesterol and strain on the kidneys. Moreover, the diet’s lack of fibre may cause constipation and alter gut microbiota, which is increasingly recognised as a factor in mental health.
Beyond diet: the role of tallow‑based skincare
Traditional societies have used animal fats for skin care for centuries. Tallow, rendered from grass‑fed cattle, is rich in oleic, palmitic and stearic acids—fatty acids that mimic the skin’s natural sebum. Modern dermatologists note that such ingredients can restore barrier function and reduce transepidermal water loss, especially for dry or eczema‑prone skin. However, the efficacy of tallow‑based products varies, and they do not replace the need for a balanced diet to support skin health from within.
The broader conversation on extreme eating patterns
Ashby’s experience adds to a growing catalogue of anecdotal success stories that fuel the carnivore hype on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Yet, as with any dietary trend, individual outcomes differ dramatically. Some followers report similar boosts in energy and mood, while others experience nutrient deficiencies, elevated cholesterol or gastrointestinal distress.
Health experts stress that any major dietary shift should be supervised by a qualified professional, especially when it involves eliminating entire food groups. For most people, a balanced approach that includes lean proteins, healthy fats, whole grains, fruits and vegetables remains the gold standard for long‑term wellbeing.
Whether the carnivore diet is a fleeting fad or a sustainable lifestyle will likely depend on future research and the ability of practitioners to mitigate its risks while preserving the benefits claimed by enthusiasts like Ashby.
