The Paleo diet has been on the market awhile now…people have had time to ‘digest it’ so to speak, but its more than just eating bacon and sausages every day. If you’re going to go Paleo, here are some important things to remember:
1) Eat Whole Foods. This means if it comes in a can, a box, vacuum sealed or says ‘just add water’ it should be avoided.
2) Fruit and Veggies are your friends: berries, apples, bananas, sweet potato, rutabaga, carrots etc
3) Drink water! Add citrus, cucumber or berries to make it more exciting.
4) Nuts and seeds are a great source of protein: Almonds, macadamia nuts, brazil nuts, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds…Go nuts!
5) Meat, seafood and eggs are encouraged – but be mindful of portion size – no bigger than the palm of your hand.
6) No Dairy!
7) No Grains – no breads, pasta, cereals or rice
8) Think of yourself as a Hunter/Gatherer – If you can’t hunt it or pick it from a tree/bush or from the ground, you probably can’t eat it.
9) Spice things up – all of the spices under the sun are allowed.
10) Have fun with food – create new recipe ideas!
Here is a Sample Day to get you started:
Breakfast:
- One soft boiled egg
- Two cups of combined steamed asparagus and red peppers
- One cup of mixed berries
- Herbal tea
Snack:
- Handful of mixed pine nuts, walnuts and sunflower seeds
- Water
Lunch:
- Salmon salad with Apple slices.
- Salad: lettuce, spinach, red onions, tomatoes, cucumber. Top with salmon and thinly sliced apple.
- Dressing: Combine 2 Tbsp olive oil, black pepper and balsamic vinegar
- Water with raspberries
Snack:
- Piece of fruit of your choice
- Water
Dinner:
- Chicken breast with sautéed mushrooms, onions and bok choy
- Side of mashed yams with cranberries and black pepper
- Coconut milk to drink
The Paleo Diet has a lot to offer as far as eating well and feeling great – just remember the above and you’ll be well on your way!
Thank you to Elisha for allowing me to guest blog while she is away 🙂
Katelyn Butler-Birmingham, CCNM Naturopathic Medical Intern
@KTBB_ND