Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Are sweeteners like honey and maple syrup allowed on the diet?

Natural sweeteners like honey and maple syrup are generally accepted in the diet, but they should be used sparingly. While they are natural, they are still forms of sugar and can contribute to increased blood sugar levels if consumed in large quantities.

Q2: Can I eat dairy on the diet?

Most versions of the diet discourage dairy consumption. However, some dieters choose to include grass-fed butter, raw dairy products, or fermented dairy products like kefir, arguing that they can be part of a healthy diet. It ultimately depends on individual tolerance and preference.

Q3: Why am I feeling tired since starting the diet?

The initial transition to an anti-inflammatory diet can sometimes result in temporary fatigue. This is often due to your body adjusting to a lower intake of carbohydrates and learning to use fat as a primary fuel source. Make sure you’re eating enough overall and getting plenty of rest. If fatigue persists, consider consulting a healthcare provider or a nutritionist.

Q4: How can I handle cravings for processed foods?

Cravings are common, especially during the initial phase of diet change. Try to identify healthier alternatives for your cravings. For instance, if you’re craving something sweet, opt for a piece of fruit or a dessert made with natural sweeteners.

Q5: Is it necessary to buy organic or grass-fed products?

While it’s ideal to consume grass-fed meats and organic produce due to their potentially higher nutrient content and lower pesticide exposure, it’s not always feasible for everyone. If budget is a concern, prioritize lean meats and seafood, and try to buy organic for the “Dirty Dozen” fruits and vegetables known to have the most pesticides.

Q6: Can I drink alcohol on the Paleo diet?

Most versions of the diet recommend avoiding alcohol, as it’s not in line with the diet’s focus on natural, unprocessed foods. 

Q7: Can I follow the diet if I’m a vegetarian or vegan?

Following this diet can be challenging for vegetarians or vegans as it heavily relies on animal proteins. However, with careful planning, it’s possible to follow a modified version of the diet. 

Q8: What if I slip up or cheat during the 30-day challenge?

It’s important to remember that everyone’s journey is unique, and it’s okay if you have a slip-up. Instead of seeing it as a failure, use it as a learning experience. The goal of the 30-day challenge is to help you create sustainable, long-term changes, not to be perfect for 30 days.

Q9: Can I drink coffee on the diet?

Yes

Q10: How do I get enough calcium without dairy products?

Many non-dairy foods are excellent sources of calcium. These include leafy green vegetables like spinach and kale, seafood, especially fish with edible bones like sardines and salmon, and some types of nuts and seeds.

Q11: Is the diet safe for children?

The diet can be safe and healthy for children, as it emphasizes whole, nutrient-dense foods. However, it’s important to ensure they get all the necessary nutrients for growth and development. 

Q12: Do I need to count calories on the diet?

The anti-inflammatory diet emphasizes food quality over calorie counting. By focusing on nutrient-dense foods that are naturally filling, you may not need to count calories to achieve your health goals. However, if you’re not seeing the results you want, you might find it helpful to track your food intake to ensure you’re not overeating or undereating.

Q13: Can I eat legumes (beans, lentils, etc.) on the Paleo diet?

Most versions of the Paleo diet exclude legumes, as they were not a part of the human diet during the Paleolithic era and contain certain compounds that can be hard to digest for some people. However, some people choose to include them in a more flexible approach to Paleo.

Q14: How much meat should I eat on the Paleo diet?

The Paleo diet does include meat, but it doesn’t mean your diet should be predominantly meat. Balance is key. Fill your plate with a variety of foods: vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, and lean proteins, including meat.

Q15: Is the Paleo diet low-carb?

Not necessarily. While the Paleo diet does exclude grains, which are a major source of carbohydrates in many diets, it includes other sources of carbohydrates like fruits and vegetables. The carbohydrate content of your diet will depend on your personal food choices.

Q16: Can I eat grains if they are gluten-free?

The Paleo diet typically excludes all grains, not just those containing gluten. This includes rice and corn. However, some people choose to incorporate gluten-free grains in a more flexible approach to Paleo.

Q17: How will the Paleo diet affect my cholesterol levels?

The Paleo diet may affect people’s cholesterol levels differently. Some may experience a decrease in cholesterol levels due to the diet’s emphasis on lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. However, others may see an increase if they consume high amounts of saturated fats from meat. Regular monitoring of cholesterol levels is recommended.

Q18: Is intermittent fasting compatible with the Paleo diet?

Yes, intermittent fasting can be combined with the Paleo diet. Both approaches emphasize a return to ancestral eating patterns. As always, it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new dietary or lifestyle regimen.

Q19: Can I consume fermented dairy products on the Paleo diet?

Traditional Paleo guidelines generally exclude all dairy products, including fermented ones. The reason behind this is that dairy was not a part of the human diet during the Paleolithic era. However, some Paleo followers believe that fermented dairy products like yogurt and kefir can be included due to their probiotic benefits and because the fermentation process can reduce lactose and other elements that people often find hard to digest. As with all things Paleo, there’s room for personalization based on individual tolerance, preferences, and health goals. Always consult with a healthcare provider or a nutritionist if you’re unsure.

Q20: Is dark chocolate allowed on the Paleo diet?

Yes, dark chocolate with a high cocoa content (70-85%) can be included in the Paleo diet in moderation. It is rich in antioxidants and may provide various health benefits. However, ensure that it doesn’t contain any non-Paleo ingredients like soy lecithin or excessive amounts of sugar.