The paleo diet is a diet concept that requires participants to eat like their ancestors did, focusing on eating prehistorically-accurate items like berries, meats, nuts, fish, and vegetables. The idea is that many modern diseases come from eating processed and unnatural foods, so resorting to a paleo diet will improve general health.
Is the Paleo Diet Healthy?
Unfortunately, there isn’t much long-term research about the paleo diet. It has the possibility of being a healthy way of getting nutrients, depending on the variety ingested. Meats, vegetables, and fruits are healthy when eaten correctly and in the right proportions.
Unfortunately, there is a significant risk of the paleo diet leading to Vitamin D and Calcium deficiency. There is also a higher risk of cancer, heart disease, and more thanks to eating higher levels of saturated fat and protein.
What Are the Negative Impacts of the Paleo Diet?
Like many fad diets, there are significant negative impacts of the paleo diet. It can be dangerous and deadly in the worst conditions.
Here are some of the negative impacts of the paleo diet:
- Less effective for weight loss: While the paleo diet can help with weight loss, this ability can taper off the longer the diet goes on. It can be frustrating for some.
- High in saturated fats: Eating more meat means a higher level of saturated fats. Ingesting these can cause heart disease.
- Limits nutrients: Eating paleo limits vital nutrients like Calcium and Vitamin D. You can get kidney disease, higher rates of bone fractures, and more.
Who Benefits Most from the Paleo Diet?
Those with diabetes or prediabetes will benefit most from the paleo diet. Some studies have shown it to have a solid impact on insulin effectiveness. However, there is no long-term research, so everyone should be cautious about the diet.
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