The benefits of the Paleo diet are numerous. The food is rich in plant protein and phytochemicals, which are destroyed by cooking.
Many other health benefits are linked to this diet, including reduced risk of cancer, improved blood pressure and glucose tolerance, and lower cholesterol.
However, before jumping into this fad diet, you should understand the dietary limitations involved.
Read on to learn more about the benefits of this diet and discover if it is right for you.
Reduces cancer risk
Eating the way our ancestors did may be a good way to reduce cancer risk. In a study, researchers from Emory University found an association between the Mediterranean diet and the risk of colorectal adenoma.
This association was stronger than observed among those who followed a Paleolithic diet, although results are mixed. In general, the Mediterranean diet was associated with a lower risk of cancer than the Paleolithic diet.
A Paleo diet increases fiber intake by increasing the intake of vegetables and fruit. The diet encourages increased consumption of fermented products like kombucha and sauerkraut, and an increased intake of vegetables and fruit.
These foods create a healthy environment in the gut, which reduces the risk of certain types of cancer. The study also found a link between an increased fiber intake and a lower risk of cancer in older people.
Improves blood pressure
Those suffering from high blood pressure may find the Paleo diet to be a helpful way to manage their condition. Its elimination of refined carbohydrates, sugar, and fat, along with sodium, potassium, and starches may help them control their blood pressure.
The diet also eliminates most processed foods, which are high in sodium and contribute to metabolic syndrome, which can lead to hypertension. It may help you lose weight and control insulin levels.
One study found that those on a Paleo diet had higher levels of interleukin-10, a molecule released by immune cells in the gut. Low interleukin-10 levels are linked to increased risks of heart disease, particularly in people who have high levels of inflammation.
However, this increase in interleukin-10 levels may signal improved heart health. Researchers note that they still need to study the effects of limiting saturated fat and vegetables, as these are two factors that may play a role in increasing blood pressure.
Improves glucose tolerance
Eating a natural whole-food diet has long been recommended for metabolic and cardiovascular health, but there are some caveats to the Paleo diet. The meat-heavy diet is full of excess fat, and this type of diet can expose you to a higher amount of carcinogens and pro-inflammatory compounds.
Insulin-Like Growth Factor, an important protein, can increase your risk of cancer, particularly if you’re young. Another caveat: strict Paleo adherence can compromise your gut health, immunity, and cancer susceptibility.
While there are no definitive studies comparing the diet to modern medicine, the findings from the Paleolithic diet are consistent with other recent studies. In addition, the diet appears to improve glucose tolerance.
Researchers believe that it is because the diet resembles the dietary patterns of Paleolithic humans. However, the results of these studies are inconsistent and do not show the same effects on people who are overweight or obese.
Improves lipid profiles
Eating a paleo diet is a proven way to improve lipid profiles and lower cholesterol. The diet encourages eating whole foods, which are high in fiber, and antioxidants, and beneficial for heart health. High-fat and processed foods are not good for our bodies, but the Paleo diet helps to minimize their intake. These foods include chips, candy, and sugar.
You can also eat ice cream, ready-to-eat meals, and sweetened breakfast cereals. Although these are delicious treats, they also pose significant risks for cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
A recent study showed that eating a Paleo diet reduced the level of the hormone insulin, which is responsible for the regulation of blood sugar.
The study participants also had lower insulin to glucose ratio and higher insulin sensitivity. Insulin resistance is a condition that is associated with a variety of known health problems, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.
Reversing metabolic syndrome is crucial for your long-term health.
Improves physical activity
While mainstream exercise culture is known for encouraging longer, more intense workouts and more calories, Paleo fitness programs emphasize the importance of rest days. Because high-intensity workouts require time to recover, the Paleo diet encourages plenty of time for rest.
Avoiding the common mistake of overtraining is essential to a healthy, balanced exercise program. By following the Paleo diet, you can be sure that you’re getting enough exercise while also staying in shape.
Protein is important for athletes’ health. It not only serves as fuel for the body but also helps repair muscle tissue. On a Paleo diet, you’ll have enough protein for optimal performance. The best sources of protein are grass-fed meat and organic products.
These foods provide the essential amino acids that athletes need to perform at their best. However, this diet does not have many dairy products or refined carbohydrates.
