The paleo diet has been described as an approach to nutrition that focuses on how our ancestors
would have eaten before the introduction of modern agriculture. Remember, always consult with your
doctor before making changes to your diet.
People who follow the Paleo diet eat a wide range of foods. This typically includes:
The inclusion of fruit and vegetables can be a contentious issue. Some followers of
the paleo diet suggest that dieters avoid certain types of fruits and vegetables. The
emphasis is on low-starch and low-sugar varieties, such as:
Others suggest fruit and vegetables can be eaten freely, as they are foods our
ancestors would have found easily in nature.
Avocados are a great addition to the paleo diet. They fit within the paleo diet rules and
provide a whole host of nutrients. Just 50 g (roughly a third of a medium avocado) contains
80 calories and contains almost 20 vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients. It's also a good
source of fiber, which is an important consideration when removing other fiber-rich
foods (e.g., grains) from the diet.
Need some inspiration about what to eat? Always consult with your doctor before making
changes to your diet. Here are some of our favorite paleo recipes:
This breakfast recipe is paleo friendly, and thanks to the ingredients such as the eggs and avocado, it’s low in sugar but a source of good fats. Is there a better way to start your day than with a delicious avocado? Overall, this recipe contributes 1mg of Vitamin D, 44mg of Calcium, 1mg of Iron, and 620mg of Potassium.
VIEW RECIPEThis paleo friendly lunch recipe is low-sugar,and rich in fiber. This recipe contributes 35mg of Calcium, 1mg of Iron, and 730mg of Potassium.
VIEW RECIPEFish is a favorite for those who follow paleo diets because its low-fat and typically has high quality protein in addition to omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins such as D and B2. It is also rich in calcium and a great source of minerals like iron, zinc, magnesium, iodine, and potassium. Overall, this recipe contributes 95mg of Calcium, 2mg of Iron, and 1710mg of Potassium.
VIEW RECIPEThis paleo friendly dessert is a good source of fiber thanks to the avocado. Overall, this recipe contributes 121mg of Calcium, 1mg of Iron, and 300mg of Potassium.
VIEW RECIPE The paleo diet is relatively complex and not everyone understands what it means.
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the paleo diet:
Yes. Opinion on fruit is divided — but most paleo supporters agree fruit is an essential part of the diet. Lower-sugar fruits are more widely accepted. Avocados are a good choice for anyone who wants to watch their sugar intake and are also following the paleo diet.
All fruits are paleo — but those who follow the diet avoid fruits high in sugar, such as:
One thing that isn't recommended on a paleo diet is fruit juice. Water is the best way to stay hydrated when following the paleo diet. It is recommended men aged 19+ drink 3.7 liters, and 3 liters (13 cups) per day and women aged 19+ is 2.7 liters, about 2.2 liters (9 cups).
Yes. Avocados are Paleo. Although they are fruit, they have no sugar and are a source of nutrients such as nearly 20 vitamins and minerals and good fat (1/3 of a medium avocado contains 6g of naturally good fat). Eating dietary fat help your body absorb other nutrients too — like vitamins A, D, K, and E.
Paleo diet rules state anything that wouldn't have been eaten by our cavemen ancestors is off-limits. The list includes: