Paleo

Based on foods presumed to have been available to Paleolithic humans. Eliminates processed foods, grains, legumes, and dairy in favor of whole, unprocessed foods.

In this guide8 sections
  1. 01Goal of the plan
  2. 02Who it is for
  3. 03Example meals and foods
  4. 04Foods to limit or adapt
  5. 05Grocery guidance
  6. 06Hydration guidance
  7. 07Flexibility and sustainability
  8. 08Individual nutrition note
Real woman preparing leafy vegetables with people nearby
Real woman preparing leafy vegetables with people nearby. Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Woman_Preparing_Leafy_Vegetables_Outdoors_with_Children_Nearby.jpg. Woman Preparing Leafy Vegetables Outdoors with Children Nearby by Oliversamson1, CC0 (http://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/zero/1.0/deed.en). Sourced from Wikimedia Commons.

Goal of the plan

Source best-for note: Weight loss, reducing inflammation, autoimmune conditions.

Who it is for

The source category is Whole Foods, with difficulty marked Moderate.

Example meals and foods

The source macro split is 30% protein, 35% carbohydrate, and 35% fat.

Meal timing: 3 meals per day, no strict timing.

  • Grass-fed meats
  • Wild fish
  • Eggs
  • Vegetables
  • Fruits
  • Nuts & seeds
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Avocados
  • Olive oil
  • Coconut oil

Foods to limit or adapt

  • Grains
  • Legumes
  • Dairy
  • Refined sugar
  • Processed foods
  • Vegetable oils
  • Artificial sweeteners
  • Salt (excess)

Grocery guidance

Suggested addition

Build a simple list around the foods you already enjoy, then add one or two easy repeatable meals before trying to overhaul everything.

Hydration guidance

Suggested addition

Keep water available through the day and adjust fluids around heat, sweat rate, long runs, and higher-fiber meals.

Flexibility and sustainability

Suggested addition

Can be expensive. Eliminates entire food groups which may lead to nutrient gaps if not planned. Restrictive for social eating.

Individual nutrition note

Suggested addition

Nutrition advice should be adapted to the individual. Consider medical history, medications, preferences, budget, culture, and support from a qualified clinician or dietitian when needed.