The Primal Paleo Diet

The Primal/Paleo diet is based on the principles said to have governed life millions of years ago: eat lean meats, seafood, fresh fruits and fresh vegetables. The diet offers a menu based on the foods that our ancestors from the hunter-gather days consumed.

History of the Primal Diet

In the late 1970s, a gastroenterologist named Walter Voegtlin suggested that following a diet similar to that which existed in the Paleolithic era could have significant health benefits. He published a book touting the argument that humans are carnivores and can subsist on protein and fat, with only small amounts of carbohydrates. These suppositions were based on his own medical expertise as a physician who treated various digestive ailments including colitis and Crohn's disease. Later editions of the book suggested that certain whole-grains and fat-free dairy products were acceptable as well. In 2009, health and fitness expert Mark Sisson wrote "The Primal Bluprint." The book uses scientific evidence to suggest that people consume a low-carbohydrate Paleolithic diet among some other health and fitness tips. Two other popular books that encouraged a primal diet include "The Paleo Diet" by Dr. Loren Cordain and "Neanderthin" by Ray Audett.

What Can You Eat on a Primal Diet?

The primal/paleo diet plan mimics the types of food that people ate before conventional food processing methods were available. On the "safe" list are fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats, seafood and other low-glycemic items that are said to be high in nutrition. The diet discourages dairy and grain-based products but suggests that you replace these foods with fruit and vegetables.

Benefits of the Primal Diet

The Paleolithic diet is said to help prevent certain degenerative diseases, increase energy levels and aid weight loss. By eliminating processed foods, you will eat more whole, nutrient-packed items like fresh fruits, leafy green vegetables, as well as lean meat, poultry and seafood that contain healthy omega-3 fats. The primal diet is said to help weight loss, improve cholesterol and reduce the risk of conditions such as diabetes and metabolic syndrome.

Considerations

Some experts do not believe that a primal/paleo diet is the key to achieving optimal health and longevity. They believe that the diet is extremist and that because society has evolved since 10,000 years ago, humans now have broader nutritional needs. Experts Alexander Strhle, Maike Wolters and Andreas Hahn from the Department of Food Science at the University of Hanover argue that the environment has changed too drastically to compare the diet with more modern ways of eating. It is important to consult with a doctor or physician before making any major dietary changes.