Stephen Lashbrook, a 50-year-old from Pensacola, Florida, faced severe psoriasis and depression for decades. His journey through pain and sleepless nights began in childhood, and psoriasis was diagnosed in his 20s. Traditional treatments failed, leaving Lashbrook feeling suicidal.

Lashbrook encountered Mikhaila Peterson’s TED Talk, which highlighted a meat-only elimination diet. Inspired by Peterson’s success, Lashbrook altered his diet drastically. On January 1, 2024, he committed to the ‘lion diet,’ focused on meat from ruminant animals like cattle, buffalo, and lamb.

“Within a week, my itching and suicidal thoughts disappeared,” Lashbrook stated. “In a month, my skin condition improved, and my chronic pain reduced significantly.”

His daily intake consists mainly of grass-fed ground beef and steak, primarily cooked using an air fryer. Lashbrook consumes approximately 1.5 to 2 pounds of high-fat ground beef in a single daily meal.

While Lashbrook has yet to undertake follow-up blood tests since starting the diet, he trusts personal feelings as an indicator of success: “Not everybody needs to be on a lion diet,” he noted, acknowledging his unique health journey.

Dr. Michael Aziz, internist and specialist in regenerative medicine, cautions about the broader application of carnivore diets. Although cutting sugars and processed foods might alleviate symptoms, long-term effects remain uncertain.

“Carnivore diets might contribute to health issues such as constipation, kidney stones, and increased risk of heart problems,” Dr. Aziz warned.

Despite concerns, Lashbrook will share his experience this week at Carni-Con, a virtual event focused on carnivore diets. The convention, lasting from September 18-20, includes both experts and enthusiasts.

“Sharing stories like mine is crucial,” Lashbrook emphasized. “It helps spread awareness that healing is possible.”