Paleo Dieting 101: The Health Benefits of the Paleo Diet
What Are the Health Benefits of a Paleo Diet?
Is the Paleo Diet Healthy?
First Let’s Answer This: What Is the Paleo Diet and Is It Healthy for You?
The basic premise of the paleo diet is that we’re better off eating what our ancient ancestors ate thousands of years ago. The paleo diet is built on the belief that many of the health problems that plague us today are brought about by overly processed foods that are hard to digest and/or nutritionally lacking. According to this philosophy, eating unprocessed, whole foods like our hunter-gatherer predecessors did will help us lose weight, lower cholesterol, promote general health, and more.
So, what does that look like on your plate? The major building blocks of the paleo diet are fruits and vegetables followed by unprocessed meat and fish, preferably grass-fed and organic. Eggs, nuts, seeds, and healthy fats are also important ingredients. You'll have to avoid processed foods, grains (including flour and all flour byproducts like bread and pasta), legumes, and sugar. What’s more, the paleo lifestyle places a strong emphasis on eating local, seasonal food and being physically active.
So, yes. A paleo diet is healthy since it ups your intake of nutritious foods and lowers your consumption of processed foods.
Potential Health Benefits of the Paleo Diet
Let’s answer some of the most common health related questions of the paleo diet:
Will the paleo diet help with weight loss?
By restricting “junk” foods and instead filling your plate with nutrient dense whole foods, you are sure to lose weight. Be sure you’re getting enough protein, since it makes you feel fuller longer. Keep in mind that this also depends on other factors like exercise levels and sleep. To see the best results, you'll need to lead an overall healthier life that doesn't stop at what you eat.
Is the paleo diet good for diabetics?
The answer is a very strong “perhaps, yes!” By avoiding refined sugar, you are also avoiding spikes in blood glucose levels. Past research suggests that following the paleo diet may reduce blood sugar levels as well as improve insulin sensitivity in those with type 2 diabetes. Please note, though, if you have diabetes, please check with your physician to see if the paleo diet is right for you.
Will the paleo diet help with weight loss?
By restricting “junk” foods and instead filling your plate with nutrient dense whole foods, you are sure to lose weight. Be sure you’re getting enough protein, since it makes you feel fuller longer. Keep in mind that this also depends on other factors like exercise levels and sleep. To see the best results, you'll need to lead an overall healthier life that doesn't stop at what you eat.
Is the paleo diet good for diabetics?
The answer is a very strong “perhaps, yes!” By avoiding refined sugar, you are also avoiding spikes in blood glucose levels. Past research suggests that following the paleo diet may reduce blood sugar levels as well as improve insulin sensitivity in those with type 2 diabetes. Please note, though, if you have diabetes, please check with your physician to see if the paleo diet is right for you.
Is paleo anti-inflammatory?
Making the switch to the paleo diet means, for most of us, a sizable increase in vegetables and therefore fiber intake. This is important for gastrointestinal health and aids in an overall decrease in inflammation levels. Gluten is also a notorious inflammatory agent for those with celiac disease or a gluten intolerance. Since wheat and all grains are not allowed on the paleo diet, it is a naturally gluten free diet. To reap the anti-inflammatory benefits, be sure to choose high fiber veggies like Brussel sprouts and nosh on apples or berries for a high-fiber, anti-inflammatory snack.
Will the paleo diet lower cholesterol?
Studies have shown that the paleo diet can increase levels of “good” cholesterol (HDL) and lower “bad” cholesterol (LDL) levels. What’s more, those who adhere to the paleo diet may also see lower levels of triglycerides, all of which promotes a happy, healthy heart. In line with the principles of the paleo diet, it is important to pay attention to the quality of your food. Choose low fat, lean cuts of meat and limit your intake of red meat. Stay focused on skinless poultry and high fiber fruits and veggies like apples and broccoli.
Is paleo anti-inflammatory?
Making the switch to the paleo diet means, for most of us, a sizable increase in vegetables and therefore fiber intake. This is important for gastrointestinal health and aids in an overall decrease in inflammation levels. Gluten is also a notorious inflammatory agent for those with celiac disease or a gluten intolerance. Since wheat and all grains are not allowed on the paleo diet, it is a naturally gluten free diet. To reap the anti-inflammatory benefits, be sure to choose high fiber veggies like Brussel sprouts and nosh on apples or berries for a high-fiber, anti-inflammatory snack.
Will the paleo diet lower cholesterol?
Studies have shown that the paleo diet can increase levels of “good” cholesterol (HDL) and lower “bad” cholesterol (LDL) levels. What’s more, those who adhere to the paleo diet may also see lower levels of triglycerides, all of which promotes a happy, healthy heart. In line with the principles of the paleo diet, it is important to pay attention to the quality of your food. Choose low fat, lean cuts of meat and limit your intake of red meat. Stay focused on skinless poultry and high fiber fruits and veggies like apples and broccoli.
Why would some people say the paleo diet is unhealthy?
While the benefits of the paleo diet are multifold, it is worth noting that it does eliminate several foods that are highly nutritious. Whole grains as well as beans, lentils and quinoa have been regarded as “health foods” for decades, and what’s more, they are often vital to vegans who have a challenging time getting enough protein in their diets. Thankfully, the paleo diet does allow for modifications. Think of it more as a template than a set of rules. Everybody is different and has different needs! As long as you stay focused on whole, nutrient dense food, you’ll reap the benefits of the paleo diet.
Why would some people say the paleo diet is unhealthy?
While the benefits of the paleo diet are multifold, it is worth noting that it does eliminate several foods that are highly nutritious. Whole grains as well as beans, lentils and quinoa have been regarded as “health foods” for decades, and what’s more, they are often vital to vegans who have a challenging time getting enough protein in their diets. Thankfully, the paleo diet does allow for modifications. Think of it more as a template than a set of rules. Everybody is different and has different needs! As long as you stay focused on whole, nutrient dense food, you’ll reap the benefits of the paleo diet.
