Naturally, when someone tells you they’re on a diet with a name, the reaction is generally to roll your eyes. However, when answering what is the Paleo solution question, one should note that some diets have claimed “success” for decades, and have even claimed scientific backing, though they are usually kind of sketchy. This one, however, seems to have some solid backing in microbiology as well as biology and anthropology, and there are many who claim marked health benefits on the diet.
Research performed on archaeological remains of our ancestors indicates an intriguing trend. To a very large extent, they seemed to be almost completely modern-disease free. Heart disease and obesity specifically were almost non-existent as the cause of death. Not surprisingly, considering they had yet to invent agriculture, their diets consisted largely of protein and fat.
Based on the probable diet of our primitive cousins, the Paleo solution is low sugar, low carb, high fat and high protein. A main guideline is to choose a lot of unprocessed or barely processed foods. When available, organic food is the best choice for strict followers of this diet.
Pasta, breads, and rice are definitely out. The highly processed foods are completely of the wrong sort. The avoidance of grains and legumes, due to their widespread consumption being based in agriculture, is promoted. It’s common, however, for Paleo dieters to mimic some foods with vegetables, most commonly pasta.
Protein and fat are made a priority with Paleo, and should be the highest, or very nearly highest, calorie source. Since it’s based on the diet of our ancestors, users believe the human body has a hard time digesting things like grains and legumes. Over time, health problems develop because of this.
High starch and high sugar contents in foods are definitely frowned upon. Organic, unprocessed foods are the best option for the the individual using this formula. Trans and saturated fats are abundant in highly processed meats, like hamburgers, and are also avoided. Many tout the health benefits associated with these dietary changes.
Recent biological studies seem to show a marked increase in athletic performance. Faster muscle gains, and a faster metabolism, are also apparent. This has been largely reported by users of the diet. The diet isn’t just being used in the prevention of disease, either. It’s now being used in the treatment of many “modernized” diseases.
To help answer what is the Paleo solution question, it’s important to know there are huge numbers of resources available to those interested in learning about this formula, whether for themselves or out of curiosity. Available in physical book and e-reader forms, the authors range from dieticians to scientists. As research is pouring in, the numbers of people using the Paleo solution is continuing to rise.