Your Partner in Optimum Health!
January 20, 2024
In recent years, the Paleo diet has become increasingly popular among those who seek a healthier lifestyle. It is based on the idea that humans should eat like our prehistoric ancestors did, which means consuming whole, unprocessed foods such as meat, fish, vegetables, and fruits. However, while the Paleo diet has been praised for its health benefits, it does have some potential drawbacks. That's where the Paleo-Med approach comes in - an updated version of the Paleo Lifestyle that strives to combine the best of both the Paleo and Mediterranean tenets.
The Mediterranean diet has long been associated with numerous health benefits, including a reduced risk of heart disease, diabetes, and even some cancers. It focuses on consuming healthy fats, such as olive oil and nuts while limiting red meat and processed foods. The Paleo-Med approach takes this one step further by incorporating the principles of the Paleo diet, which emphasizes whole, unprocessed foods and eliminates grains, legumes, and dairy.
The Paleo-Med approach provides a balanced and sustainable way of eating, with a focus on nutrient-dense foods that are naturally low in calories. This approach encourages the consumption of healthy fats, such as those found in avocados and nuts, which can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. It also emphasizes the importance of a high fiber intake, facilitating blood sugar level regulation and improving digestive health.
Moreover, the Paleo-Med approach is not just about what you eat but also how you eat and live. It emphasizes the importance of mindful eating, which means being present and fully engaged with your food. This encourages you to slow down and savor your meals, which can help to reduce overeating and improve digestion.
Paleo-Med emphasizes the importance of a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep. By adopting even a few of the tenets for healthy living that the Paleo-Mediterranean lifestyle recommends, you can experience significant improvement in overall health and well being. So you're not just changing your diet, but you're also making a long-term commitment to your wellness. Ideally, you would slowly transition to having a Paleo-Med lifestyle and diet about 80% of the time - because no one’s perfect, and sometimes, the best thing you can do for your health is to enjoy yourself (in moderation).
The Paleo-Med approach encourages regular physical activity, which is essential for maintaining a healthy weight, reducing the risk of chronic diseases, and improving overall quality of life. It also emphasizes the importance of stress management, which can lessen experiences of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.
Along with regular physical activity, the Paleo-Med approach recognizes the importance of getting adequate sleep, which is essential for physical and mental health. It encourages adopting healthy sleep hygiene, such as establishing a regular sleep schedule, avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bedtime, and creating a comfortable sleep environment.
If you’re interested in the Paleo-Med lifestyle, check out our guide here. The guide includes:
At Medical Transformation Center, we create individualized treatment plans that are tailored specifically for you. For more information on the Paleo-Med lifestyle, or to begin your personalized treatment plan, contact us today!