Paleo Diet Advantages And Disadvantages

Unless you want to end up in an early grave, the importance of paying attention to personal health cannot be understated. Keeping an eye on food intake and dieting prove very successful in helping maintain a healthy body. Over the last few years, people began to focus more on health and many turned to the Paleo diet. The Paleo diet suggests that our ancient ancestors ate foods that provide the optimal nutritional requirements. The diet’s popularity indicates success, but alternative diets exist that provide a more conventional and proven dieting experience with results. Although the Paleo diet can be effective, there are other alternatives that lead to weight loss without potentially damaging one’s health through nutritional imbalance. Many
The Paleo diet substitutes protein for carbs which causes most people on the diet to eat much more protein than they need. According to nutritionist Dr. Mercola, “Replacing carbs with too much protein can actually cause health challenges similar to eating too many grain carbs and sugars” (Mercola). Mercola also states that excessive protein can open the mammalian target of rapamycin pathway, which can lead to increased risk of cancer. In addition to excessive protein, the Paleo diet lacks key nutrients, including calcium and vitamin D. The total restriction of dairy in the Paleo diet causes the absence of nutrients. According to the UC Davis Health System, “Not getting enough calcium increases the risk of osteoporosis, rickets and bone fractures” (Is Paleo Safe?). These risks associated with the Paleo diet can pose a significant threat and should be considered carefully. Numerous alternatives to the Paleo diet exist and many people benefit more from other standard
The Paleo diet can be difficult to sustain because it excludes certain foods, especially dairy. Generally, diets that completely cut off food groups are harder to follow for long periods of time. In addition, the Paleo diet poses specific problems for people with organ diseases. The UC Davis Health System states, “medical supervision is recommended for those on the Paleo diet, especially for anyone with heart, kidney, liver or pancreatic disease or who is interested in maintaining the very low-carbohydrate version of the diet” (Is Paleo Safe?). These health risks can discourage people with health issues from trying the diet when they are the ones who can benefit the most from a healthy diet. These restrictions meant that the Paleo diet cannot be used as a diet for extended amounts of time. Other standard diets that combine exercise and reduce unhealthy food intake serve as better long term diets than the Paleo