Paleo Diet: A modern fad diet inspired by the stone-age

If the food is made in a factory and is full of preservatives, do not eat it! This is the basic principle of the paleo diet which is designed to resemble what humans must have eaten in the Paleolithic era or during the stone-age. Paleo diet aims to include unprocessed animal and plant-based foods along with propagating enough physical activity in order to lead a healthier life. According to a study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, paleo diet reduces systolic blood pressure, lowers insulin sensitivity and improves cholesterol balance.

What to eat?

Modern-day food is heavily processed and modified using preservatives and other chemicals. In paleo diet, the essential premise is to eat simple, unprocessed and fresh food. All kinds of plant and animal based whole foods like meat, fish, eggs, nuts, fruits, healthy fats and oils can be consumed. While water should be the main source of hydration, beverages like black tea and coffee are not entirely prohibited. And for some cheat day indulgence, small amounts of red wine and dark chocolate are also allowed from time to time.

What to avoid?

All things processed or preserved must be avoided at all costs. Packaged food, soft drinks, artificial sweeteners, processed dairy products like cheese and butter, legumes and vegetable oils must also be avoided in the paleo diet.

While there is no specific way to follow the paleo diet, the main idea is to avoid processed foods and focus on healthy, whole foods to live a longer and fuller life. It is also advisable to consult a professional dietician before making any dietary changes.

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