A paleolithic diet emphasizes foods eaten more than 10,000 years ago by primitive people -- a heavy reliance on meat, seafood, nuts, vegetables and some fruit. Because the paleo diet predates agriculture, grains, legumes and sugar aren't consumed. Also referred to as the hunter/gatherer diet, most paleo eating plans also eliminate dairy products. It's a high-protein/low-carb diet that may help you lose fat, but you should always consult your doctor before beginning any weight-loss program.
A paleolithic diet includes meat -- with an emphasis on wild game and grass-fed meats, seafood, fish, eggs, vegetables, nuts, roots, berries and mushrooms -- foods that would have been hunted or gathered as nomadic tribes moved across the land. Grains and legumes weren't available to paleolithic man, but were introduced later during the neolithic era. A paleo diet eliminates added sugar, salt, artificial sweeteners and processed foods. Paleo foods are nutrient-dense, as multivitamins and other supplementation weren't available. According to Robb Wolf, author of "The Paleo Solution" the diet includes lean proteins, healthy fats and seasonal fruits and vegetables.
High-Protein/Low-Carb Diets for Weight Loss
Diets that restrict carbohydrates and emphasize protein for weight loss aren't new. "Dr. Atkins' New Diet Revolution" was first published in the '70s, and newer diets such as the Zone and South Beach programs have proven successful for weight loss. Protein and fat slow digestion and increase satiety, helping you feel full faster and longer, which might lead to lower calorie consumption. Carbohydrates, especially sugar and starch, can cause a dramatic increase in glucose and insulin production, starting a cycle of high and low blood sugar levels that triggers cravings and overeating. Limiting sugar and starches can stabilize blood sugar and help you consume fewer calories. Weight loss requires you to consume fewer calories than you burn, so that your body uses stored fat for energy.
Dangers of a High-Protein/Low-Carb Diet
High-protein diets can be high in saturated fat, the type of fat associated with higher cholesterol levels and an increased risk for cardiovascular disease. Although limiting sugar and starch may be beneficial, low-carb diets may also limit fiber -- a type of carbohydrate that improves glucose and cholesterol levels, keeps bowel function regular and may help protect you against certain types of cancer, specifically intestinal and colon cancers. The American Heart Association says that high-protein/low-carb diets limit essential nutrients, including calcium, magnesium and potassium, which help lower blood pressure. If you have impaired kidney function, high-protein diets may speed up the progression of kidney disease.
Pros and Cons
A paleo diet may help you eliminate processed foods, artificial ingredients and added sugars from your diet, which will make you feel better. Controlling hunger and cravings will make it easier to consume fewer calories. The paleo diet emphasizes nutrient-dense, fresh whole foods, but because it restricts all grains and legumes, may limit some much-needed vitamins and minerals. "Time" magazine notes that humans are still evolving, and that newer genetic adaptations allow humans to digest grains and legumes. The theory that our bodies aren't designed to process grains may not be as valid about present-day humans as it is about Paleolithic man.
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