Diet Guide

Paleo Diet

Eat only whole natural foods. If a caveman could not eat it, you do not eat it.

What is it?

Paleo means eating the way humans ate thousands of years ago. Meat, fish, eggs, vegetables, fruits, and nuts. No grains, no dairy, no processed food, and no added sugar.

The idea is that modern processed foods are relatively new and our bodies are not built for them. By eating only foods that existed before farming, you remove most of what is considered unhealthy in a modern diet.

It is similar to keto but allows more carbs from fruit and starchy vegetables like sweet potato.

How does it actually work?

Imagine your ancestor from 10,000 years ago. If she would not recognise it as food, you do not eat it. A chicken breast yes. A packet of biscuits no. A bowl of berries yes. A bowl of noodles no. This simple test removes most processed and high calorie foods automatically, which reduces your overall calorie intake without needing to count anything.

What does a typical day look like?

Breakfast
3 eggs cooked in coconut oil. Half an avocado. Handful of berries.
Lunch
250g grilled beef. Large plate of roasted vegetables. Olive oil dressing.
Dinner
200g grilled fish. 200g sweet potato. Steamed greens. No rice, no bread, no dairy.

Is this diet for you?

Good if you...
  • Want strict simple rules with no grey areas
  • Already eat a lot of whole foods
  • Do not mind cutting grains completely
Skip it if you...
  • Rely on rice or bread as your main carb source
  • Eat out often and cannot control ingredients
  • Have a tight food budget

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
Removes all processed food automaticallyCuts out rice, bread, and most grains
Higher protein keeps hunger lowMore expensive than a standard diet
Clear rules make decisions easyHard to follow when eating out
May reduce inflammation markersNo dairy removes easy protein options like yogurt

The Science

The paleo diet eliminates grains, legumes, and processed foods, focusing on whole animal and plant foods. Studies suggest it can improve metabolic markers and reduce inflammation. A 2009 study found improvements in cardiovascular risk factors after just 3 months. The diet tends to be higher in protein and lower in refined carbohydrates, which contributes to better satiety and reduced overall calorie intake.

Read the research

Community

Thousands of people doing this diet share their experience on Reddit. Visit r/paleo

Related reading

Paleo cuts food groups you do not actually need to remove. See the only diet that actually works and how I lost over 40kg eating rice the whole way.

Try my go-to 1kg meal or check any dish in the food calorie database.

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