Paleolithic eating is a diet that is composed of wild plant and animal sources. The diet is what pre-agriculture hunter-gatherers consumed beginning in the Paleolithic era 2.5 million years ago and continuing to 10,000 years ago when the development of agriculture introduced grain-based diets. The theory of Paleolithic eating is that humans are genetically adapted to this diet that we all consumed up until our recent history. It is composed of meats, seafood, fresh fruits and vegetables. The guidelines of the diet include 60% animal sources and 40% plant sources. Excluded are cereal grains, legumes, dairy, refined sugar, processed foods, salt and refined vegetable oils. The framework includes higher intake of protein, fiber, potassium, omega 6 and 3 polyunsaturated/ monounsaturated fats, alkaline foods, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and plant phytochemicals. By eliminating foods, the diet lowers carbohydrate intake, glycemic index, and sodium. Consuming this diet has shown to reduce health problems such as weight gain, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and gastrointestinal tract diseases, to name a few. Going back to these basics, has shown promise to optimize health, reduce disease and maintain a healthy weight. Throughout this book all ingredients are recommended in their rawest form. We recommend sea salt, raw honey, grass fed animals, organic fruits and vegetables and no nitrates.
