The Paleo Diet: A Brief Overview
The word “paleo” means “older or ancient” and thus the Paleo Diet got its name from the idea we should be eating the way our ancestors ate. The Paleo Diet movement tends to focus on the notion that we should eat a certain way because our bodies “evolved” based on what our ancestors (i.e. hunter-gatherers) ate prior to the advent of agriculture. The archaeological evidence does show that hunter-gatherer peoples tended to be healthier than agriculturalists. Their bones do not show evidence of the same level of diseases found in the remains of agricultural peoples. While this is compelling evidence that points us in the right direction I do not believe it rises to the level of full justification for “paleolithic eating”. What interests me more is the scientific evidence and studies that show this way of eating leads to improved health. Not to mention my own personal experience which has been very positive. Additionally, rather than focusing on evolution, I much prefer to look at it in terms of eating the way our bodies were created by God to be fueled.
Think of food as a drug that we are putting into our bodies multiple times a day. Many of the illnesses plaguing our society are what are known as “diseases of civilization” such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and cancer, just to name a few. With that in mind, we should be eating what heals our body and supports our immune, musculoskeletal and cardiovascular systems, our brain function and our major organs. The paleo diet does just that. Here is the cook book to make the right food choices.
Here are 5 tips for success when eating Paleo.
1) Cut out the (hidden) sugar. This includes any sweetener like honey, agave syrup, stevia, coconut crystals; as well as fruit and alcohol. Fruit and honey can be eaten in moderation on a Paleo Diet, but for those who are looking to reduce sugar cravings, lose weight, or balance blood sugar it is best to avoid them.
2) Don’t be afraid to eat fat. Lower carb and low fat is not a recipe for health. If you are hungry, you are not eating enough dietary fat. In our society, people are truly afraid of fat. Mostly, because many of the fats available to us are not healthy. When adding fat, look for Omega 3 fatty acid and short chain fatty acid containing sources like avocado, coconut oil, walnut oil, macadamia oil. Adding these fats will help you feel more full and give your body the fuel it needs to be a fat burner, instead of a sugar burner.
3) Add unrefined (any color but white) sea salt to your food or to your water. It can alleviate the symptoms of feeling tired, weak or dizzy. Part of these symptoms can be attributed to adjusting from being a sugar burner to a fat burner, which can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on your body. Once the body can effectively burn the fuel it is provided with increased energy should be experienced. Dietary salt is needed because the body has become more efficient at excreting sodium. The fewer carbohydrates you eat, the more sodium you need to add to your diet to maintain a proper electrolyte balance.
4) Eat your veggies. Your Mom was right. Not only do veggies supply necessary micronutrients and fiber, they also help to fill you up and are a great vehicle to add fat into. Slice them up and bring them on the road with you. Veggies make a great snack, especially with a Paleo friendly dip like guacamole.
5) Have a plan. The most important thing you can do is plan out what you are going to eat the day before. Planning is more important than cooking. Have your meals or snacks prepared to take with you for the day. Know where you can stop for a Paleo friendly meal or snack. Also, plan what you are having for dinner the following night. Do you have all the ingredients for it? Remember to make enough for leftovers so you have food for the following day.
So, If you are looking for the right food to prepare and eat. I have included a video to the Paleo Diet that will help you with your new lifestyle. A full recipe guide, what to eat and not eat. I wish you all the success.
