Thriving with Type 1 Diabetes and IBS on a Keto-Carnivore Lifestyle

A Foundation in Real Food
I’m a 35-year-old woman who has been eating low-carb since early 2021, with over a year and a half now following a keto-carnivore lifestyle. My current approach is a MEDS version—Meat, Eggs, Dairy, and Seafood—with virtually zero carbohydrates. This way of eating has helped me manage Type 1 Diabetes, severe food sensitivities, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, and several other chronic issues.

Growing up on a cattle ranch, meat was always central to our meals. We enjoyed grass-fed beef and home-grown vegetables with few sweets. In college, as a track and cross-country athlete, I shifted toward carb-heavy meals like pasta and white bread for energy. But I noticed that when I was truly fatigued, nothing restored me like a solid portion of beef.

The Diagnosis and Downward Spiral
After college, I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. I followed what I believed was a healthy diet—vegetables, fruits, whole grain bread, lean meats—managing blood sugar with insulin and staying active. My husband and I were blessed with a daughter.

By 2020, however, I developed painful food intolerances. After a miscarriage and the stress of COVID, I dropped to 105 pounds at 5’7”. A gastroenterologist diagnosed me with IBS and multiple food sensitivities including gluten and soy. Despite following a low FODMAP diet and taking medications, I remained underweight, weak, and wary of long-term drug use.

Entering Keto and Beyond
Desperate to heal, I tried keto. Within weeks of reducing carbs to under 30 grams daily, I felt energized, my digestion improved, blood glucose stabilized, and I had a new mental clarity. My skin cleared, and even chronic menstrual pain resolved.

Eight months into keto, I came across Dr. Shawn Baker and others who promoted keto-carnivore living. Still facing occasional stomach pain and constipation, I transitioned fully to keto-carnivore, eating fatty ribeyes from our family ranch, eggs, butter, and heavy cream. The transformation was immediate and profound.

Lessons from a Brief Carb Experiment
Recently, I experimented with 50–100 grams of natural carbs—fruit, raw honey, and sweet potatoes—to support triathlon training. While I noticed a slight performance boost, the trade-offs weren’t worth it. Acne, body odor, menstrual pain, and constipation returned. I quickly went back to eating only meat, eggs, dairy, and seafood.

A Lifestyle That Heals
Today, I’m in the best shape of my life. I weigh 120 pounds, have energy to play with my daughter, work, and train. My blood glucose is stable, digestion is strong, and my mood and mental clarity have never been better.

​As a recreational athlete, I now prioritize strength, flexibility, and joy—working on my golf game rather than grinding endurance sports. Keto-carnivore has brought me back to health, balance, and peace.

Disclaimer: These testimonials are from people who shared their success stories on keto carnivore diet which is Revero’s nutrition therapy method. They are not from actual Revero patients. Clinical results are not guaranteed and outcomes are specific to each patient.