Following a paleo diet can provide numerous health benefits due to its focus on nutrient-dense foods. However, it is essential to be discerning about what advice to follow, especially when it comes to online articles. One key rule to remember is to trust your gut instinct. If you read something that doesn’t sound quite right, perhaps it’s not and requires further investigation. Additionally, consider the writer’s field of expertise, if they provide research to support their statements, and if they speak from personal experience.
When considering a healthy paleo diet, it’s important to consult reliable sources, such as the Cleveland Clinic Center for Functional Medicine. Here are eight basic paleo guidelines that can help improve your health:
- Limit sugar consumption. Cutting down on sugar can help reduce your risk of numerous health concerns, including obesity and diabetes.
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Eat mostly vegetables. A vegetable-rich diet can help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce your risk of illnesses like cancer and heart disease, and improve your digestion.
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Consume good fats such as coconut oil, olive oil, and avocadoes. These fats are essential for better health and can provide a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation.
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Include eggs in your meals. Eggs contain a wealth of important nutrients, and eating one daily is a great way to incorporate this healthy food into your daily routine.
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Eat beans occasionally. Although beans are classified as legumes and technically excluded from a paleo diet, consuming them in moderation is acceptable. Make sure to soak them overnight before cooking for best results.
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Avoid grains. Many consider gluten-free grains safe to eat, but they can disrupt digestion and make it harder to control blood sugar levels. Additionally, consuming grains may contribute to leaky gut syndrome.
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Eat plenty of nuts and seeds. The nutrients and fiber in nuts and seeds support better heart health and bone health.
Although some critics continue to dismiss the benefits of a paleo diet, recent research, such as a study conducted by the University of California San Francisco, indicates that these diets can improve health significantly. Ultimately, the best way to determine if a paleo diet can improve your health is by trying it and experiencing the benefits for yourself.
