The Good & The Bad of a Paleo Diet

The public and players I work with often ask me about the merits of the Paleo Diet. I’m not an expert on nutrition but I have spent some time researching the issue. I’ve read some interesting material written by well-known nutritionists on the topic so I wanted to offer you this short overview to help you make an informed decision.

The Paleo Diet permits you to consume lean meats, seafood, fresh fruit, non-starchy veggies, nuts, seeds, eggs, plant based oils.  It doesn’t permit you to eat grains, starchy veggies, legumes or beans, dairy products, high fat meats, sugars, process foods or transfats, salty foods, etc.  

On the one hand, a Paelo Diet can provide you with: a clean diet without additives; the anti-inflammatory benefit from plant nutrients; an increase in iron from proteins; a higher level of satiety due to the consumption of proteins and fats; and a reduction in weight generally caused from the restrictions on carbohydrates.  On the other hand, a Paleo Diet does not specify portion size so overeating is common, it is more expensive, and there is an absence of a good energy source of grains from the diet.  

I don’t necessarily believe in diets, rather, I encourage you to find eating habits that support your lifestyle, a hopefully healthy lifestyle. I found that eating sensibly, with moderation, keeping track of calories, learning to enjoy food, exercising often and remembering to smile often is one great way to keep the heart light and the pounds off.