The Paleo Diet, often called the “Caveman Diet” or “Stone Age Diet,” is based on the idea of eating foods that our hunter-gatherer ancestors would have consumed during the Paleolithic era—before the advent of agriculture. The core philosophy is simple: eat whole, unprocessed foods that nourish your body, and eliminate modern, refined products that may contribute to chronic disease and inflammation.
Origins:
The Paleo Diet is inspired by the eating habits of our Paleolithic ancestors, who lived between 2.5 million and 10,000 years ago — long before the development of agriculture. Anthropologists and scientists believe early humans thrived on a diet rich in wild meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, and nuts, with minimal exposure to grains, dairy, and processed foods.
The modern Paleo movement was popularized in the 1970s and gained widespread attention with the publication of The Paleo Diet by Dr. Loren Cordain in the early 2000s. Loren Cordain and other advocates argue that our genes are still best adapted to the pre-agricultural diet, and that many chronic modern diseases stem from the mismatch between our ancient biology and modern eating habits.
Benefits of the Paleo Diet
- Reduced inflammation
- Improved digestion
- Stabilized blood sugar levels
- Weight loss and fat loss
- Increased energy
- Better skin and mental clarity
Getting Started: Easy Steps
- Clean out your pantry – Remove processed snacks, grains, dairy, and sugars.
- Stock up on Paleo-friendly foods – Load your kitchen with fresh vegetables, fruits, meats, and healthy fats.
- Plan your meals – Start with simple recipes like grilled chicken and roasted veggies.
- Stay hydrated – Drink water, herbal teas, and avoid sugary beverages.
- Listen to your body – Transition slowly if needed and adjust according to how you feel.
Sample One-Day Paleo Meal Plan
- Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with spinach and avocado
- Lunch: Grilled salmon over mixed greens with olive oil vinaigrette
- Snack: A handful of almonds and an apple
- Dinner: Baked chicken thighs with sweet potato and broccoli