Wellness
The Paleo Diet: Eating Like Our Ancestors
An explainer on the Paleo diet, a nutritional approach based on the presumed eating habits of our hunter-gatherer ancestors from the Paleolithic era.
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What is it?
The Paleo diet, also known as the caveman or Stone Age diet, is a nutritional plan based on the presumed eating habits of humans during the Paleolithic era. This period dates from approximately 2.5 million to 10,000 years ago. The core principle is to consume whole, unprocessed foods that could be hunted or gathered. This includes lean meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. The diet fundamentally excludes foods that became common after the advent of farming, such as grains, legumes (beans, lentils, peanuts), dairy products, refined sugars, and highly processed foods. The central idea is that the human body is genetically better adapted to the diet of our ancestors rather than the modern diet that emerged with agriculture.
Why is it trending?
The Paleo diet's popularity stems from its focus on whole, unprocessed foods and its rejection of modern, highly processed dietary staples. Proponents suggest that this way of eating can lead to significant weight loss, often without calorie counting, and may reduce the risk of chronic "lifestyle" diseases like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. The diet's straightforward approach—eat natural foods and avoid processed ones—appeals to many seeking a simpler and cleaner way of eating. It has gained traction through influential books, health blogs, and anecdotal success stories that highlight potential health improvements.
How does it affect people?
Adopting a Paleo diet can lead to several noticeable health changes. Many people experience weight loss, improved blood pressure, and better cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The emphasis on whole foods naturally eliminates excess sugar and salt, which can improve blood sugar control and reduce inflammation. However, there are potential drawbacks. By eliminating entire food groups like grains and dairy, individuals might miss out on essential nutrients such as fiber, calcium, and vitamin D. This can raise concerns about long-term nutritional adequacy, and some experts caution that more research is needed to fully understand the diet's long-term effects.