We already know junk and processed foods along with sedentary way of life are the main culprits of a number of lifestyle diseases. Can you imagine a world without all these detrimental foods? Yes, you can. It was the way our ancestors lived thousands of years ago in the Paleolithic age on a diet that did not trigger a myriad of health conditions.
What is a Paleo diet?
When it comes to a healthy diet, who better to turn for advice than our ancestors? That’s right! Paleo or cavemen diet is based on foods that can be gathered or hunted – meat, fishes, seafood, eggs, vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds. Foods like cereals, legumes, dairy products and sugar are completely avoided.
There is substantial evidence that a diet rich in refined foods, sugar and trans-fats are the root cause of diseases like cardio vascular disorders, diabetes, cancer and obesity. Paleo diet avoids these food groups that can affect your health.
Paleo diet – Foods you can and cannot eat
The diet followed by our ancestors cannot be exactly mimicked because unlike the Stone Age vegetables, seeds, nuts and fruits today are cultivated and meats are domesticated. However, it is possible to follow a modified version of the Paleo diet.
When you are following Paleo diet, you opt for whole and unprocessed foods. You can include lean meats, sea foods, fishes, eggs along with ample portions of fruits and vegetables. It is best to eat vegetables and fruits that are organically produced and consume meats that are obtained from grass-fed animals rather than grain-fed.
Since sugaris completely avoided, palm sugar, honey and the natural sugar present in fruits are the only sources of sugar in your diet. Olive oil, coconut oil, avocado oil and flax seed oil can also be a part of the Paleo diet. Nuts and seeds also form a part of your diet.
Water, green tea, coconut water and organic teas are the only sources of drinking Paleo diet. Basically, this diet avoids cereals, grains and legumes, dairy products, processed foods and oils. Steer clear of fruit juices, soft drinks and other beverages. In case of alcohol, you can have gluten-free alcohol like potato vodka, red and white wine, tequila and rum. You should, however, take alcohol occasionally and in moderation.
How does the Paleo diet work?
A low-carbohydrate, low fat diet that is rich in protein and adequate in most of the essential vitamins and minerals is one of the healthiest ways to eat. The exclusion of processed foods, dairy products, sugar and cereals may prevent or reduce the chances of weight-gain, high blood sugar, heart diseases and obesity.
At the same time, lean meats, sea food and plants diet provide the essential nutrients and fiber content that may prevent over-eating, improve insulin resistance and metabolism. Since you avoid refined and processed foods completely, your sodium intake is under permissible levels and this can play a vital role in reducing the risk of lifestyle diseases.
So, does the Paleo diet appeal to you? Following this diet may lead to weight-loss and assist you to live a healthier life. However, remember avoiding whole grains, legumes and dairy products in the long run may lead to calcium deficiency. If you want to go on a Paleo diet, it is wise to take calcium and vitamin D supplementation, especially if you are not exposed to sunlight. Furthermore, follow a regular exercise routine along with the Paleo diet to improve your fitness.
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