Paleolithic Diet

Paleolithic (paleo) diets are a group of dietary patterns that approximate what our Paleolithic ancestors ate. They are usually minimally processed, whole-food diets full of plants and animal products. Paleo diets commonly limit or completely exclude grains, dairy, legumes, starchy root vegetables, and processed foods.^[1]

While paleo may be considered a panacea in some popular circles, randomized trials have shown that paleo can be used for modest positive effects on weight loss,^[2][3][4] glucose regulation,^[5][6] blood lipids,^[7][4] and other markers of cardiometabolic health.^[3][7][4][5] These effects are comparable to those seen with other healthy diets, but paleo may lead to greater weight loss, especially in the short term.^[8][3]

Moderate paleo diets are generally safe, but more extreme paleo diets may pose risks.

Extremely carbohydrate-restricted paleo diets can lead to lactation ketoacidosis (a rare condition that may arise when a lactating woman’s energy needs are not being met through diet) in breastfeeding women.^[9]

Paleo diets that are very high in protein (>2.5 grams protein per kilogram (kg) of body weight per day, or about one-third of calories from protein) may increase risk of kidney stones and kidney dysfunction.^[10] The relationship has not been confirmed in more rigorous randomized trials, and does not apply to paleo diets with more moderate levels of protein.^[11]

A balanced paleo diet should include sources of iodine, calcium, and vitamin D to prevent nutrient insufficiency or deficiency.^{[12][13][13][14][15]}

Paleo diets may lead to weight loss by making calorie restriction easier with nutrient-dense, highly satiating foods that emphasize fiber, protein, and fat.^[16][17] The positive effects on blood pressure, blood lipids, and other cardiometabolic outcomes may be due to the inclusion of particular nutrients (omega-3 fatty acids, potassium, magnesium) and the exclusion of others (sugar, salt, high-glycemic carbohydrates, excessive saturated fat).^{[18][19][20][13][8][5]}