By Chef K.T. Murphy
Whether you are new to the Paleo diet trend or have been practicing for years, this way of eating has many health lessons we can all learn. Here are our top five most important health lesson we can all learn by eating more like our ancestors.
Whole Foods Are Crucial
The emphasis of the Paleo diet on whole foods, especially fruits and vegetables, is a 
critical health lesson. The Standard American Diet, with the appropriate acronym SAD, is indeed sad because of its emphasis on sugary, processed, and fried foods that are quickly contributing to an obesity epidemic and health crisis.
Paleo eating places a high emphasis on eating fruits and vegetables as well as other whole foods. You are, therefore, eating more nutrient-dense foods with plenty of minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, and electrolytes. These compounds provide you with all your body needs to maintain optimal health.
Processed Foods Are Never a Healthy Choice
Processed and packaged foods contain less fiber than whole foods, and they are much more likely to contain unhealthy ingredients that you just do not need. In addition to preservatives and synthetic compounds, processed foods are higher in unhealthy fats, added sugars, and salt. Processing means taking what is natural and making it shelf-stable and portable, which removes a lot of the natural nutrition in ingredients. Skip the processing and go straight to the source, and you will enjoy greater nutrient density and fewer empty calories.
Gluten Can be Problematic For Many People
Even if you are not gluten intolerant, your body may have more of a problem with gluten than you know. Gluten has been linked to digestive problems, inflammatory diseases, and weight gain, even in those who are not diagnosed with Celiac disease. The Paleo approach eschews all grains, and most people enjoy better digestion, loss of belly fat, fewer inflammatory issues, and overall better well-being. You may be more sensitive to gluten than you realize and following the Paleo diet has afforded many the opportunity to try gluten-free living, with much success.
Eating More Protein and Fewer Carbohydrates is Beneficial
Avoiding the foods that raise blood sugar levels is another health benefit to Paleo eating. Crashes in blood sugar cause fatigue, promote weight gain, and can lead to diabetes and insulin resistance. The Paleo diet is excellent for diabetics and those with blood sugar issues.
Paleo eating also helps you gain muscle mass with its emphasis on more protein. Belly fat is usually the result of eating too many carbohydrates, which is less of a problem on the Paleo eating plan. The amino acids in protein are what your body needs to build and repair muscle tissue, which can lead to a higher metabolism and even further weight loss.
Your Diet Can Help You Sleep Better
Paleo eating removes many dietary stimulants and hormone disrupters that can negatively impact your sleep. The chemicals in processed food, as well as compounds like caffeine and sugar, all wreak havoc on your hormones, which regulate sleep. Eating a whole-foods diet that eliminates these can help you get to sleep faster, sleep longer, and feel more rested.
The Paleo diet focuses on eating the way our ancient ancestors ate, including plenty of fresh vegetables, meat, and fruits. By eliminating empty calories, added sugars and fats, and other unhealthy sources from your food, you can enjoy a healthier weight, more stable blood sugar, increased energy, and proper nutrition for your cells and organs. While eating Paleo may not be for everyone, those who follow these guidelines certainly appreciate the numerous health benefits of this approach.
I am working on a Paleo overview booklet explaining in detail with charts and recipes. All the best
Chef Murph
XoxoX
