How to Follow the Low Carb Paleolithic (Cave Man) Diet

Some nutritionists and diet experts think that the secret to maintaining a healthy weight and body is to eat the way our ancestors did, by following the Paleolithic (aka cave man) diet. Doing so requires a few changes in the average American diet.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. 
    

   One of the underlying beliefs of the Paleolithic Diet is the idea that grains and other carbs were not consumed by cave men because they are toxic to the human body. Like the sugar busters diet, and Atkins Diet, the Paleolithic diet requires followers to eliminate all grains and other starchy foods from their diet plan. This includes wheat, corn, bread, pasta, beans, rice, dairy, and sugar.

2. 
    

   Increase your usual intake of protein. The caveman diet suggests that you eat a lot of meat, eggs, and nuts to get the protein you need. Because dairy isn't allowed, you cannot prepare your eggs with milk or butter. Because peanuts and cashews are toxic in raw form, these nuts are not permitted on this low carb diet. Nutritionists suggest eating raw almonds, walnuts, and Brazil nuts to adhere to the Paleolithic diet. Protein should account for approximately 50% of your food intake. Remember, though, that modern meat is not as low in fat as prehistoric meat was (they ate things like antelope, we eat fatty beef). If you have a family history of heart disease or high cholesterol, consider getting most of your protein needs from egg whites, chicken breast, and fish, to get your protein needs while maintaining a healthy low fat diet.

3. 
    

   Eat lots of vegetables, in raw form. Vegetables are important in this diet, because they provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Because Paleolithic man didn't have access to steamers, it's best to eat your veggies raw when following this diet. Proponents of the diet say it's particularly important to eat root vegetables (such as carrots, turnips, and radishes). Root vegetables are what prehistoric man most likely grew and harvested.

4. 
    

   The Paleolithic diet isn't a no-carb diet. Fruits should be eaten daily, particularly when you're feeling carb withdrawal symptoms. If you crave something sweet, have your favorite fruit.

5. 
    

   Eat berries. Berries were most likely plentiful and wild during prehistoric times. Adding plenty of berries --which are naturally high in fiber and vitamins-- into your daily diet plan will keep you full and healthy.

[MommyTeach]

on 12/12/2008 I love this! Red meat isn't the best (fat wise) but certainly cutting down on carbs is good. WHole wheat is good too though :) I've tried the caveman diet without knowing before and I ended up having the worst nausea when I got pregnant. 5*

[steph275]

on 12/12/2008 Great article. Thanks for writing.