You’ve all heard of ‘fad diets’ – those weight loss plans that ban certain food groups and are generally not recommended by doctors or dieticians. But here’s a diet that’s often mislabeled as a fad diet, despite actually being one of the oldest and most natural human diets there is!
It’s called the Paleo Diet, and it’s based on the foods our ancestors used to eat many thousands of years ago, before the advent of burgers, chips and other junk food products. Experts say it’s a healthy way to eat and can help you lose weight steadily, as well as being good for your heart and general health. So here’s how to eat Paleo!
What Exactly is the Paleo Diet?
Essentially, the Paleo Diet is based on the diet our ancestors used to have, back in the days when humans were hunter-gatherers and lived on whatever they could forage or catch. So think of the main foods that would have been available in Stone Age times, and that’ll probably give you a good idea of what should appear on your Paleo plate.
In brief, the Paleo Diet consists of: protein; plenty of fruit and veg; healthy fats from coconut oil, olive oil and avocado; and the occasional serving of raw nuts.
For those of you who were under the impression that our ancestors were primarily vegetarians, think again. A significant proportion of cavemen’s diets actually consisted of meat. So you should try to do likewise and ensure you include a good serving of protein in each meal.
What are the Key Characteristics of the Paleo Diet?
Essentially, the Paleo Diet combines many of the characteristics that you think of when you talk about the ‘ideal’ diet. It’s high in protein, has a low glycemic load, contains plenty of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables and is high in omega-3 fatty acids. In fact, the Paleo Diet is so good that research suggests it may be even better for you than the much-feted Mediterranean diet!
What Can You Expect to Gain from Eating Paleo?
Of course, the two main reasons for adopting a new diet are to help you lose weight or to improve your health. And the Paleo Diet can help you do both! People have been known to lose dozens of pounds on the Paleo Diet in a relatively short space of time, while those who only have a small amount to shift can expect to shed those last few unwanted pounds steadily.
In terms of your health, research suggests the Paleo Diet is right up there with the best doctor-recommended dietary regimes. It can help prevent heart disease, type-2 diabetes, high blood pressure and elevated blood cholesterol. All of which could help you live a longer, healthier life!