The Caveman diet is a widely-followed eating plan that encourages consuming unprocessed foods that our Paleolithic ancestors survived on thousands of years ago. Eliminating highly processed ingredients, the Paleo diet provides an opportunity to support overall health and reduce chronic disease.
What is the Paleo Diet?
The Paleo diet is based on the premise that our genetics are designed for eating the types of foods our ancient ancestors ate during the Paleolithic era, which occurred from roughly 2.5 million to 10,000 years ago. This way of eating includes:
- Lean meats (ideally grass-fed or wild-caught)
- Natural fruits and veggies
- Natural fats from seeds and nuts
- Good fats, such as olive oil
On the flip side, the diet avoids modern paleo diet benefits manufactured products that have become common in the last century, including:
- Grains
- Processed dairy products
- Refined sugar
- Legumes
Benefits of the Paleo Diet
The Paleo diet offers a variety of advantages that support overall wellness. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Sustainable fat loss: Because of its focus on whole foods and cutting out junk foods, the Paleo diet is effective for shed excess pounds and keep the weight off.
- Better gut health: Since the diet eliminates grains, dairy, and legumes, many people find less bloating and discomfort, especially for those with sensitivities with these modern staples.
- More stable energy levels: Many Paleo followers experience improved energy, as natural, unprocessed meals deliver more consistent energy than junk foods.
- Decreased inflammation: Because of its avoidance of processed ingredients, the Paleo diet supports the reduction of long-term inflammation, associated with many chronic diseases.
Beginning Your Paleo Journey
Want to try the Paleo diet, here are a few steps to begin:
- Stock up on whole foods: Stock up on leafy greens, lean meats, and healthy fats.
- Ditch refined foods: Go through your pantry and toss anything highly processed like pre-packaged snacks and sweets.
- Prepare meals ahead: Make it easy to stick to the Paleo diet by making meals in advance that emphasize unprocessed ingredients.
- Keep hydrated: Water is essential in supporting good health. Make sure you’re drinking enough throughout the day.
- Listen to your body: The key to success with the Paleo diet is that it allows you to listen to your hunger cues—no need for constant food tracking.
Final Thoughts
The Paleo diet offers a simple way to improve health by prioritizing natural, nutrient-dense ingredients. By avoiding processed foods, it helps you achieve sustainable wellness, making it an excellent choice to support overall vitality.
© Copyright 2023