Even plant-based protein companies sometimes use this tactic, advertising with a "masculinized aesthetic," Vrijsen pointed out. From the mid-2010s to the early 2020s in the United States, there was a brief window of time in which plant-based eating was gaining more popular traction and many more people were questioning conventional gender norms. Putting aside the Instagram suspension and whatever caused it, the backlash Smith garnered for eating tofu is just one of the latest examples of what can happen when men, especially those who appear traditionally "masculine," promote plant-based eating. "People probably perceive him as a very normative masculine man because he eats meat" and he’s fit, she told me. "But then he breaks his boundaries of masculinity by eating vegan food, and for a lot of people, this brings a lot of tension and a lot of questions." Some commenters said his newfound interest in plant-based foods explained why he’s weak (he is, in fact, quite jacked), made his voice sound "feminine" (he sounds like your average dude), or even more absurdly, that it would lead him to grow breasts or become gay. Plus, it’s well-established that soy products are not only safe to eat but also confer a number of health benefits, especially when replacing processed and red meats. During his graduate program, he built a large Instagram following by explaining what he describes as "evidence-based nutrition," covering research and debunking inaccurate health information. Specifically, testosterone, a hormone critical for male reproductive health and cognitive function, has been the focus of recent research in the context of meat-centric dietary practices. Intermittent fasting can lead to weight loss and improvements in body composition, which indirectly may support higher testosterone levels due to reduced levels of body fat. The carnivore diet, being rich in protein sources such as meat, fish, and eggs, may contribute to a hormonal environment that supports the synthesis and maintenance of testosterone. Sufficient protein intake supports the body's anabolic processes, which is critical for maintaining testosterone levels. However, the high protein content of the carnivore diet can help to preserve muscle mass, even if testosterone levels fluctuate. The rationale behind the diet is that humans evolved eating predominantly meat and that many modern health problems stem from consuming processed foods and plant-based antinutrients. While there are several mechanisms by which the carnivore diet could potentially increase testosterone levels, individual responses may vary. While specific studies on the carnivore diet and testosterone are limited, existing research on high-protein and low-carbohydrate diets provides some insights. While there is a theoretical basis for the carnivore diet potentially influencing testosterone levels positively, more targeted research is necessary to draw definitive conclusions. A diet rich in essential nutrients, particularly those found in animal products, can support optimal testosterone production. Therefore, individuals following a carnivore diet may experience an increase in testosterone due to the nutrient density of their food choices. Long-term adherence may lead to adaptations in metabolism and hormonal balance, necessitating regular monitoring of health markers. Sustainability of testosterone increases from the carnivore diet can vary among individuals. Is the increase in testosterone from the carnivore diet sustainable long-term? What if I experience negative side effects on the carnivore diet? Gradual transitions and proper reintroduction of foods can help to minimize this risk. However, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements. These include red meat (especially beef and lamb), eggs (especially the yolks), and organ meats like liver. As we explore the relationship between the Carnivore Diet and testosterone, it’s essential to understand the hormonal dynamics at play. Advocates claim that this meat-centric regimen can lead to a host of health benefits, from weight loss to improved mental clarity. One study did find that eating more red meat decreased a man’s chance of getting his partner pregnant.9 The aforementioned studies, along with others, also looked at metrics of sperm health, including sperm count and quality. Saladino was possibly deficient in nutrients that are responsible for producing important hormones like testosterone." Those nutrients include magnesium, found in leafy greens and avocados, and flavonoid antioxidants, found in berries, cherries, and pomegranates. A survey-based study found that those who ate a carnivore diet for six or more months reported weight loss, improved well-being, and reduced symptoms from medical conditions.1