Paleo/Primal Lifestyle Basics

What is a paleo or primal diet?—It is a natural diet high in vegetables, good fats and proteins and limited grain-based and starchy carbohydrates. The strict form of a paleo or primal diet eliminates dairy, gluten, legumes and all grains. Some people limit other foods such as peanuts, salt and vinegar. I would recommend that people experiment and find what works for them personally. You are the expert on your own body!

If you desire to reduce your weight, you can experiment with limiting carbohydrates to 100 grams per day or lower. You can use internet based calorie counting software. I like www.fitday.com. Eventually, you will learn what your body likes best and you should not have to count carbohydrates at all anymore. Check out this post from Mark Sisson, an expert in the paleo/primal movement, on how many carbohydrates to eat in a day for weight loss. I’ll emphasize that paleo is not a “low-carb diet” a la Dr. Atkins. The paleo/primal lifestyle includes lots of vegetables and fruits which have nutrients you need to stay healthy and satisfied.

Advocates of primal and paleo lifestyles also recommend getting plenty of sunshine, reducing stress by engaging in activities you enjoy and participating in exercise that includes strength building exercises. Building strength and muscle can help to increase your overall metabolism of food.

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