The paleo diet, also known as the Paleolithic diet or the caveman diet, is a dietary approach that mimics the diet of early humans who lived during the Paleolithic era, which lasted from about 2.5 million to 10,000 years ago. Here are 10 points that explain what the paleo diet is:
1. The paleo diet emphasizes whole, nutrient-dense foods that our ancestors would have eaten, such as meat, fish, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds.
2. It excludes processed and refined foods, grains, dairy products, legumes, and added sugars.
3. The paleo diet is high in protein, healthy fats, and fibre, which can help promote feelings of fullness and satiety.
4. It may help reduce inflammation in the body, which has been linked to numerous chronic diseases.
5. The paleo diet may also improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control, which could be beneficial for those with type 2 diabetes.
6. Some people follow the paleo diet for weight loss, as it can be naturally lower in calories and high in protein.
7. However, the paleo diet is not a low-carbohydrate diet, as it includes carbohydrates from fruits and vegetables.
8. The paleo diet emphasizes the importance of quality food sources, such as grass-fed and pasture-raised meats, wild-caught fish, and organic fruits and vegetables.
9. It encourages physical activity and emphasizes the importance of getting enough sleep, managing stress, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
10. Critics of the paleo diet argue that it is not based on accurate historical evidence and that some of the foods excluded, such as grains and legumes, can be part of a healthy diet.