The paleolithic diet claims to be much more than a weight-loss tool. According to Robb Wolf, author of "The Paleo Solution -- The Original Human Diet, " eating like a caveman can prevent a number of degenerative diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and coronary artery disease. Although there is no calorie counting or portion control on this low-carb plan, dieters are limited to three basic food categories -- animal proteins, healthy fats and seasonal fruits and vegetables.
Philosophy Behind the Paleo Diet
Proponents of the paleo lifestyle claim that emulating the diet of paleolithic ancestors is a nutrient-dense dietary solution; and that eliminating sugars, refined carbohydrates and processed and artificial foods can stop the obesity epidemic. In a 2011 "Time" magazine interview, Arthur De Vany, author of the "The New Evolution Diet," argues that "modern life --- dating from the advent of agriculture 10,000 years ago --- is simply alien to our genes." De Vany believes that humans can thrive by returning to a pre-agriculture era diet and exercise routine, which includes interval and cross-training, a diet emphasizing wild game and eliminating grains and legumes, along with bouts of periodic fasting.
Allowed Paleo Foods
Most animal proteins are allowed, although lean meats such as poultry, rabbit, goat, fish, seafood and lean cuts of beef, pork and veal are favored over fatty cuts of meat. Organ meat, eggs and all wild or exotic game meat, from alligator to emu to rattlesnake, is allowed on the paleo diet plan. Fruit is allowed as well, but berries are favored. Vegetables are encouraged, and some starchy vegetables, such as rutabaga, turnips and carrots are allowed, but not potatoes. Nuts and seeds are also fine to eat. All foods should be as "natural" or unprocessed as possible, but foods don't have to be eaten raw.
Forbidden Paleo Foods
All forms of grains and legumes are eliminated on the paleo diet. A 2011 "Chicago Tribune" article points out that grains aren't allowed because they "were a late entry to the human palate, appearing about 12,000 years ago, and aren't foods to which we're 'genetically adapted'." Dairy products are not allowed either. All beans, including soybeans and soy products such as tofu, are forbidden. Although fruits are fine, juice is not -- because it lacks fiber. Sodas and all forms of sugar, honey, natural and artificial sweeteners are eliminated. Alcohol can be consumed in moderation, and should be limited to no more than one drink daily.
Pros and Cons of the Paleo Lifestyle
People have lost weight following the paleo plan; many low-carb diets have a proven track record of weight loss. Any diet that reduces calories, eliminates sugars and encourages exercise will result in weight loss -- and any diet that produces weight loss will reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes and heart disease. However, the paleo diet eliminates entire food groups -- rarely the sign of a healthy or sustainable diet. "Time" magazine notes that human DNA didn't "freeze" 40,000 years ago and that humans are still evolving. There was no single paleolithic lifestyle; people of that era had very different diets, behaviors and genetic adaptations, depending on where they lived.
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