Health
Is The Paleo Diet Right For You?
Is The Paleo Diet Right For You? (Photo courtesy Derzsi Elekes Andor)
The Paleo Diet
There is another diet becoming popular among many cultures now that warmer weather is here. This diet is known as the Paleo Diet.
The basis of this diet is to recognize and follow the ways of hunter-gatherer communities of the past. These people would survive mainly on meats, fruits, berries and vegetables found in their local environment.
First popularized in the mid-1970s by gastroenterologist Walter L. Voegtlin, this nutritional concept has been promoted and adapted by a number of authors and researchers in several books and academic journals. A common theme in evolutionary medicine, Paleolithic nutrition is based on the premise that modern humans are genetically adapted to the diet of their Paleolithic ancestors and that human genetics have scarcely changed since the dawn of agriculture, and therefore that an ideal diet for human health and well-being is one that resembles this ancestral diet.
Processed foods that have become convenient purchases in nearly every supermarket are not on the menu for those following this diet. Sugars, grains, dairy products, and even items containing caffeine are strictly avoided.
Among the scientists and nutritionists studying the effects of maintaining such a food regime has produced conflicting reports. Some believe this is another fad diet while others have had promising results. The Paleo Diet is said to help balance sugar levels in blood. It also plays a major role in the body’s ability to regulate hormones. Another health benefit is the possible lowering of the risk for heart disease.
The Paleo Diet may not be the solution for everyone, but many believe it to be the healthiest way to eat when considering the choices available. It is advised to consult a doctor before changing your exercise and or dietary habits.
Sources:
Paleolithic diet
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paleolithic_diet
Abu Dhabi nutritionist adapts Paleo diet to suit UAE living
http://www.thenational.ae/lifestyle/abu-dhabi-nutritionist-adapts-paleo-diet-to-suit-uae-living
The Paleo Diet Questioned by Dr Oz: Another Diet Fad?
http://z6mag.com/featured/the-paleo-diet-questioned-by-dr-oz-another-diet-fad-1620787.html