7-2-2025 (FLORIDA) A concerning case published in JAMA Cardiology has highlighted the dangerous consequences of following an extreme carnivorous diet. A 40-year-old Florida man developed a rare medical condition after adhering to a strict meat and dairy-only diet for eight months, medical experts report.
The patient, who remained unnamed in the study, sought medical attention after noticing unusual yellow fluid seeping from his palms, elbows, and the soles of his feet, significantly disrupting his daily activities. Despite experiencing no pain or discomfort, the persistent symptoms prompted him to seek professional medical evaluation.
Following comprehensive medical examinations, doctors diagnosed him with xanthelasma, a condition characterised by cholesterol-rich deposits under the skin, resulting from severely elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The unusual presentation of the condition, with fluid secretion, particularly alarmed medical professionals.
Physicians attributed the patient’s condition directly to his extreme dietary choices, which consisted exclusively of meat and dairy products, completely excluding fruits, vegetables, and other essential food groups. His blood tests revealed dangerously high cholesterol levels, far exceeding normal parameters.
Dr James Richardson, the lead physician handling the case, warned against following such restrictive diets. “This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of a balanced diet. Eliminating entire food groups, particularly fruits and vegetables, can lead to severe metabolic implications,” he cautioned.
