Diet ideas come from all over the place. And, as the market becomes increasingly cramped, new theories are formed based on some really strange sources. One emerging view of diet and fitness that is gaining traction is called "evolutionary fitness." The Paleo Diet (A.K.A Paleolithic Diet or Caveman Diet), is based on this evolutionary fitness model and encourages adherents to emulate to the diet habits of humans before the agriculture revolution.
Let's Get This Out of the Way: I should state, from the beginning, that I do not agree with all of the ideas found within Paleo Diet literature regarding our evolutionary history and the dietary preferences of our genes. That does not mean, however, that I discount the diet completely. The following represents my impressions of the diet based on the literature and studies that I have read. I have not tried this diet myself.
Paleolithic Diet Protocol:
There are several books on this diet that present variations on the theme, although the idea is generally attributed to Walter L. Voegtlin who wrote about it during the 1970s. The overall guiding principle of this diet is to only eat foods that would be available to hunter-gatherers. That means wild game, fish, vegetables and nuts with a heavy emphasis on protein. Again, the exact proportions of macronutrients are still up for debate but generally speaking the diet requires lots of protein, less carbs and very little fat. The diet is pretty restrictive. Foods not allowed, according to Diets in Review, include grains, beans, dairy products, sugar, salt, legumes (like peanuts and cashews), flour, potatoes and sweet potatoes. Sweets are allowed in the form of honey but are limited. The only beverages allowed by the Paleo Diet are water, coconut water and green tea. Althought, I'm not sure who came up with the idea of cavemen drinking green tea.
Research and Evidence:
There is an incredible amount of research about this diet, and the vast majority of it is positive. One study, in particular, tested the effects of a paleolithic-type diet when followed for only 10 days. The diet resulted in improvements in blood pressure, glucose tolerance, insulin secretion, insulin sensitivity and lipid profiles. But the subjects did not lose any weight. It should be noted that this study was performed with a very small sample group of only 9 people.
A similar study used a larger group of 20 volunteers, 14 of which actually followed through. This study lasted for 3 weeks. The researchers observed improvements in body composition, weight loss and blood pressure but a significant decrease in the caloric intake and calcium levels.
My 2 Cents:
A high protein, whole foods diet is nothing new and is most definitely beneficial... sometimes. There is an enormous body of evidence to suggest the importance of grains and oats, especially for athletes. But the paleo diet, unlike other high-protein protocols, does allow for carbohydrates from other sources. The restrictive nature of the paleo diet can lead to deficits of certain micronutrients, specifically calcium and vitamin A, so I would recommend supplements if you plan on attempting this diet.
Sustainability is always a main concern when it comes to diets. And, while there are many advocates of this diet that have been on it for years, restrictive diets are always difficult to maintain. This diet is also touted in innumerable variations and seems to be sort of up for interpretation which can easily lead to confusion.
If you're considering this diet, talk to your doctor or a dietitian.
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