Monday 4 November 2013

Looking at the Paleo Diet's Weight Loss Potential

It is natural to want to lose weight. We all wish we could lose some weight at some point. A healthy diet and regular exercise are the best ways to lose weight. For some people, however, this isn't enough. They want something that works faster, better, that makes them healthier, etc. This is why there are so many fad diets out there. The inventors of these diets are well aware of this need so they come up with ways to give people what they want and profit from that. This is where the Paleo diet comes in. The jury is still out as to its "fad" status, but what's evident is that the Paleo diet is one of the more popular diets to be invented. So is it right for you? Don't stop reading!

One thing you can expect from being in the Paleo diet is zero consumption of refined sugar. The only sugar allowed is the one that comes naturally in fruits and vegetables. It's because you'd be prone to energy surges and crashes if you consume refined sugar. This consequently causes your energy levels to fluctuate.

Moreover, it doesn't do your health any good. Not only does refined sugar eat through your teeth's enamel, it causes widespread damage in your body. So it doesn't matter what your weight loss goals are; you'd be better off not eating refined sugars. One of the advantages of eating the foods in this diet is that the meat you are allowed/encouraged to eat is higher in omega-3 fatty acids. It's not known just yet why this is so, but what's known is that in order for our body to be healthy, it needs omega-3 fatty acids. These essential fatty acids promote heart health and the proper development of our eyes and brain. Almost all meats contain these compounds, but they are found in the highest concentrations in fish and marine wildlife.

When it comes to portion sizes, the Paleo diet's approach is more relative, unlike other diets where portion sizes are severely restricted. You decide the portion sizes according to your reason for following the diet. Obviously if you want to use the Paleo diet to lose weight you are going to go with smaller portion sizes. However, if you're on the Paleo diet as an athlete, your portion sizes would be bigger.

For losing weight, should you turn to the Paleo diet? It's best if you see your doctor and ask about it. You can ask your doctor if the Paleo diet can help you get to your ideal weight and if it's safe for you.