Just recently I saw someone post a about an “anti-Inflammatory” turmeric donut labeled Paleo.
The problem with “Paleo” is it has strayed so far from the original research and teachings of Dr. Loren Cordain, the founder of the Paleo Movement. It has become a gimmick word used to sell supposedly “healthy” foods.
For example, the so called “Paleo Donuts” I saw posted and shared contain about 28g+/- sugar/donut and “Claim to be anti-inflammatory” Keep in mind, a regular donut has roughly 11g sugar. Meaning, this “Paleo” & supposedly “Anti-inflammatory donut” has 250% more sugar compared to a regular donut. While many people would eat two under the guise of “being healthy” in a sitting, getting closer to 56g/sugar.
This is why I see so many people say, “I tried Paleo and I still didn’t lose weight!”. Or, “I tried Paleo and I still have XYZ disease and it doesn’t work for me!” I encourage everyone to do their own research.
According to Dr. Cordain the Paleo diets consists of seven fundamentals.
Lower carbohydrate intake and lower glycemic – From non-starchy fresh fruits and vegetables that are lower in the glycemic level
Higher fiber -Not through grains or starch vegetables but through non-starchy vegetables and fruit
Higher intake of Omega-3s – Cut the Omega-6 from your diet and increase Omega-3s
Higher Potassium and lower sodium intake– Today the average American consumes twice as much sodium as potassium
Higher intake of vitamins, minerals, and anti-oxidants – From fresh fruits and vegetables
Dietary load that balances the alkaline and acidity– Fresh fruits and vegetables produce alkaline. Acid producing foods are meats, grains, dairy and legumes.
Focus on genuinely reducing inflammation and you will always win. Don’t get caught up in the rhetoric