Paleolithic Diet

Definition

The Paleolithic Diet, also known as the Paleo Diet, is a modern nutritional plan based on the presumed dietary habits of early humans during the Paleolithic era, focusing on whole foods and excluding processed foods.

Scientific / Technical Definition

The Paleolithic Diet is a dietary regime that seeks to replicate the eating patterns of humans in the Paleolithic period, approximately 2.5 million to 10,000 years ago. It emphasizes the consumption of foods that would have been available through hunting and gathering, such as lean meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, while excluding agricultural products like dairy, grains, and legumes.

Benefits

• May aid in weight loss
• Promotes whole foods and nutrient-dense eating
• May improve glucose tolerance
• Can lead to better blood pressure control
• Potential reduction in risk for some chronic diseases

Examples

• Grass-fed meat
• Wild-caught fish
• Fruits and berries
• Nuts and seeds
• Vegetables

Additional Information

• Known issues: The diet can be high in saturated fats due to increased meat consumption, and it may lead to nutrient deficiencies if not properly balanced with vegetables and fruits.

Related Terms

• Keto Diet
• Mediterranean Diet
• Whole30
• Low-Carb Diet
• Gluten-Free Diet

References

• Paleolithic nutrition: A consideration of its nature and current implications
• The Paleo Diet: A Beginner's Guide and Meal Plan