Going Paleolithic!

I have decided to follow the Paleolithic lifestyle for the next 30 days.  I will post weekly blog updates on my progress, challenges, likes, dislikes and more! Check back weekly to learn about my journey!

What is the Paleolithic way?

The Paleolithic Diet, also known as the Paleo, or Primal Diet, is founded on the belief that eating natural foods leads to optimal health. The idea of the nutrition plan is to consume food that cavemen did millions of years ago before the cultivation of grains and legumes and the invention of processed, packed foods. 

Foods Included:

• fats (coconut oil, avocados, butter, and olives)
• animal protein sources (red meat, poultry, pork, eggs, and organs -- grass-fed meats when available)
• fruits and nuts in a limited quantity
• vegetables (cooked or raw) are the main carbohydrate sources 

Foods to avoid:

• refined sugars or fruit juices • cereal grains and legumes including wheat, rye, barley, oats, brown rice, etc. • dairy products other than butter and cream

 

 

Why am I choosing to explore this lifestyle?

I have been gluten, dairy and wheat free for several years now, but still have been consuming some grains. However, I notice when I eat certain grains that I do not feel my best. I get symptoms like upset stomach, bloating, brain fog etc. and while these are not allergic symptoms, they are very uncomfortable feelings. So I thought it might be good to give this lifestyle a whirl. I will try it for 30 days, reassess my health afterwards and decide if I want to continue on the journey.

I believe health is all about discovering what works for your body. I believe in bio-individuality, meaning there is no one-size-fits-all-diet. Food that is perfect for one person, may be another persons poison. Each person is the expert on their own body. You might thrive on a vegan diet or a Paleo, but you are the only one that can determine what is best for you. Do you think Paleo might be a lifestyle for you? 

For more information, check out two of my favorite blogs on the topic, www.balancedbites.com and www.marksdailyapple.com.