Vegetarian Paleo Diet

The paleo diet is based on consuming foods that early humans may have eaten before the Neolithic period, according to Loren Cordain, author of "The Paleo Diet." It typically includes eggs, lean meats, fruits, vegetables, mushrooms and nuts, and excludes processed foods, dairy products, grains and most oils. Although the paleo diet is typically omniverous, adaptations may make it suitable for vegetarians.

Permitted and Restricted Foods

A vegetarian diet excludes all types of meat, such as pork, fish, beef, poultry and wild game. Thus, these staples of the paleo diet are not permissible in a vegetarian version. Breads, pastas, bagels and tortillas, which are commonly found in standard vegetarian diets, are not part of the vegetarian paleo diet.

A vegetarian version of the paleo diet includes fruits, berries, seeds, nuts and most vegetables, except for potatoes. Nuts should not contain added sugars or salt.

Purported Benefits

The paleo diet, including vegetarian versions, eliminate ingredients that may contribute to inflammation, heart disease, cancer and diabetes. Fresh fruits and vegetables provide vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber for proper digestion, prevention of stroke and heart attack and rebuilding of healthy cells. Unlike most weight-loss diets, a vegetarian paleo diet may help you shed unwanted pounds without counting points, restricting portions or buying pre-packaged diet meals. Also, nuts and seeds provide essential fatty acids that may support brain function and heart health.

Cons

Switching to a paleo diet involves an adjustment period, during which you may experience headaches and fatigue. Cravings for carbohydrates are also common during the first two or three weeks. You may have difficulty obtaining sufficient protein from a vegetarian paleo diet. The restrictiveness of this diet may make it difficult to dine in restaurants or social settings. A vegetarian paleo diet is also deficient in vitamin B-12, which is necessary for producing sheaths that coat your nerve endings.

Preparation Methods

Vegetarian paleo dieters typically eat fruits raw, with no added sugars. You may steam or grill vegetables; however, avoid frying vegetables, which can add excess oils. You may eat seeds and nuts raw or roasted. Boil or poach eggs instead of frying.