True or False: Paleo Myths You Need To Forget

Today, you might as well divide the world between paleo enthusiasts and those who are determined to spread ill-will against the diet.

I say, it doesn’t matter which side you fall on, it’s the facts that matter. As an enthusiast myself, I can’t help but offer a few nuggets of wisdom on some of the more famous paleo myths.

So, here goes. Buckle up! You may find yourself very surprised...

Myth #1 — You won’t get enough calcium

The paleo diet calls for dairy to be cut out. For a lot of people, they may be concerned that this fact means they won’t consume enough calcium, because they believe the only way to get calcium is from dairy products. There are plenty of other foods containing calcium, with the added bonus that they aren’t full of hormones that can upset your system. Some of these foods include: kale, spinach, seaweed, salmon, sardines, nuts, dates, and olives. Also look at this list for other foods with calcium and the amount. Getting 10–15 minutes of direct sunlight every day is also important to your calcium absorption. You’ll get Vitamin D from the sun, which helps your body absorb calcium.

Myth #2 — You’re more likely to get heart and kidney disease from all the protein

Many people fear that they’ll develop heart or kidney problems later in life from following a paleo diet. It is possible to have kidney issues when consuming high levels of protein, but the paleo diet suggests protein balanced out with other types of food. Paleo is by no means a high protein diet; it recommends moderate amounts of healthy protein. Paleo ranges “from low protein (about 10% of calories) to high protein (25% of calories) depending on individual needs. (As a reference, the average protein intake in the U.S. is 15% of calories.)” Like other types of protein, eggs are also healthy. For years, eggs were blacklisted as an unhealthy food that will raise your cholesterol, but it’s lately been discovered that’s not true. Eggs are a wonderful source of nutrients and can actually raise your good cholesterol.

“The paleo diet suggests the protein is balanced out with other types of food.”

Myth #3 — Paleo is too expensive to follow

While the paleo diet does encourage purchasing organic and naturally raised foods, you can shop smart and minimize your grocery bill. If you normally buy the cheapest processed foods available at the store, then the money you spend on groceries will rise, but you’ll save money on medical visits. By no longer purchasing junk food, snacks, and unhealthy drinks, you might realize you’re actually saving money. Other ways to save is through research. Look at The Clean 15, so you can familiarize yourself with the food you can buy conventionally, then shop local! Head to a farmers market or stand near you, because organic produce is usually much cheaper at these locations. You can also make purchases in bulk of some paleo foods, or buy healthy meat in bulk and freeze it.

Are you on the fence? Check out Mark’s website where he writes frequently on ways for you to live a healthy lifestyle!