Popularized in the 1970s, the Paleo diet grew as a result of the simple dietary lifestyle. Following a principle of eating whole foods, numerous variations of the real Paleo diet have evolved through the years. The real Paleo diet takes the approach of eating like a "caveman" or hunter-gather during the Paleolithic era.
Types of Food
Recommended food on the real Paleo diet includes any whole foods. Lean protein sources should come from grass-fed animals and can include poultry, eggs, beef and game meat. Fruits and vegetables account for the carbohydrates on the real Paleo diet. Fruits can include blueberries, avocados, cranberries, peaches, cantaloupe and kiwi, while recommended vegetables are asparagus, bell peppers, spinach, broccoli and cauliflower.
Strict Guidelines
While variations of the Paleo diet allow certain types of food, the real Paleo diet follows strict guidelines on foods that aren't allowed. The major food areas that aren't allowed on the real Paleo diet are processed foods, dairy and grains. Any dairy, including milk, cheese, ice cream, butter and yogurt aren't allowed on the real Paleo diet. Grains such as cereal grains, barley, corn and oats should be avoided. Other foods that aren't allowed include legumes, peanut butter, starchy vegetables, bacon and sweets.
Beverages
The only beverage allowed on the real Paleo diet is water; preferably coming from spring water that is free of pharmaceuticals, chlorine and fluoride. Any caffeinated drinks, such as coffee or tea, aren't allowed, but organic tea could be acceptable, as it is minimally processed. Alcoholic drinks made from grains aren't allowed on the real Paleo diet.
Considerations
With a diet consisting of whole foods, fruits and vegetables, the real Paleo diet is nutrient dense and rarely needs additional supplementation. Recommendations on possible supplements include vitamin D and calcium from the reduction of dairy and omega fatty acids for a source of healthy fats to reduce inflammation. Overall, foods should be consumed when you are hungry, as the real Paleo diet doesn't follow a strict "six meals per day" principle.
Benefits
Reducing the amount of processed foods and inflammatory foods along with adding whole fruits and vegetables has numerous health benefits. According to Loren Cordain, Ph.D., from ThePaleoDiet.com, the real Paleo diet may help prevent or reduce the risk for diseases such as cancer, diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular disease. Cordain says it improves bone health, hormone levels and overall well-being.
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