What is the Paleo Diet?

The Paleo Diet, developed by Dr. Loren Cordain, goes by several names such as: Hunter Gatherer diet, Paleolithic diet, Stone Age, Ancestral diet, and the Caveman diet. Don’t let that confuse you as they all refer to the same nutritional program. Dr. Cordain is a professor in the Department of Health and Exercise Science at Colorado State University. Over the last 20 years, he has researched the connections between modern diets and disease, as well as the results of diet on personal health. Due to his dedication in his field, he is the world’s foremost expert on Paleolithic diets.

This nutrition program is made to resemble the natural diet of humans before the Agricultural Revolution, over 10,000 years go. Dr. Cordain asserts that followers of this diet have experienced such positive results because they are eating foods that humans are genetically designed to eat. This is no fad diet. Instead, it is based on a diet that developed through evolution and natural selection.

It is based on a high-protein diet with moderate amounts of fats that consists of lean meats, seafood, fresh vegetables and fruits, and nuts. These foods provide a good source of helpful nutrients such as soluble fiber, antioxidants, phytochemicals, omega-3 fatty acids and monounsaturated fats, and low-glycemic carbohydrates that contribute to good health.

In addition, these foods are also low in nutrients, like refined sugars and grains, saturated and trans fats, sodium, high-glycemic carbohydrates, and processed foods, that are often linked to weight gain, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and several other health complications. This combination formulates a wholesome diet with many healthy advantages.

Benefits of following this program include natural protection against diseases, weight loss, weight control maintenance, higher energy levels, and optimum health.

According to testimonials, many people experience positive results as fast a 7-10 days by sticking to the nutritional guidelines given.

As with any diet, one finds that they are encouraged to eat certain foods, while other foods are restricted. Dairy, legumes, and grain products are three types of food that the Paleo Diet discourages. For example, you would need to limit your intake of milk, yogurt, and hard cheeses, as well as cereal grains and beans, peas, and peanuts. Instead, this diet promotes the consumption of plentiful amounts of fresh fruits and non-starchy vegetables.

As always, when making changes to your diet, it is important to seek the professional opinion of a dietitian working along with your physician.  Certain medical conditions or medications may alter the nutritional needs for some people, requiring the modification of your diet.

I hope that the basic background above gives you an adequate idea of what the Paleo Diet menu might consist of.