Blog Posts Archives - Page 29 of 41

11 Things You Should Give Up To Be Paleo

Ok, so obviously grains, legumes and perhaps dairy are no longer on the agenda – but what else should you give up as you embrace a healthy Paleo lifestyle?

1. Marking Every Event With Food

Birthdays, Christmas, Easter, Valentine’s Day – it’s all become about the food! Whenever there is a celebration of any sort it is so often marked with food – and it’s very rarely grass-fed beef jerky, omega-3 enriched eggs and avocados. Instead of taking in birthday cakes to the office – how about marking your birthday with an impromptu office trip to the park or a social event?

2. Relying on Everything But Your Own Two Feet

So you've got a car and a bus pass? That doesn't mean you should use them all the time. We’re supposed to walk, it’s good to walk; find a way to incorporate it into your day!

3. Trying to Please

When all of your friends eat differently, it’s easy to feel alienated in your Paleo diet. They might suggest a pizza restaurant – or cook a non Paleo dinner for you. In the short-term the easy option is to eat the food and avoid the risk of offending them. But it’s time to think long-term; this is how you want to eat; this is important to you – so be strong and stick to your principles! Who knows, they might even respect you for it.

4. Unrealistic Expectations

If you've come to Paleo looking to lose 15kg in two weeks, think again! Paleo is not a diet, but something to follow for life. It might take a while to achieve the results you seek, but give it time and they will come.

5. Your Doctor?

If your doctor is more interested in treating your symptoms with drugs, rather than finding out the underlying issue; perhaps it’s time to look for a new doctor?

6. The Past

Perhaps you used to struggle with making good food choices, or you used to make pancakes every weekend. Just because you used to do things, maybe now is the time to let go of the past and make some changes!

7. Fears

Whether you have an irrational fear of fat lingering from your conventional wisdom, low-fat days; or a fear of getting ill – there’s no room or purpose for that fear anymore, besides positivity is far more constructive.

8. Excuses

It’s too easy to blame a hectic travelling schedule, long working hours or bad finances for making poor nutrition and fitness choices. If you want to make it happen, you can make it happen – drop the excuses!

9. The Middle of the Grocery Store

Unless you enjoy studying packets of junk food, to see how many ingredients you can’t pronounce – it’s time to give up the middle of the supermarket. Everything you need will be on the perimeter – or better still, outside at farmers markets!

10. Avoiding Sunshine

Another phobia it’s time to let go of! Whilst it’s not good to burn, getting some sunshine and making your own Vitamin D is a good thing!

11. Your Shock Absorbing Running Shoes with Nano Technology

How did our ancestors manage without them? Have you tried running barefoot?

What have I missed from the list? What else should you let go of as you embrace a healthy Paleo lifestyle?

Learning from Olympic Athletes

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In the last three weeks I've been fortunate enough to meet and learn from two former Olympians. To become one of the best in the World – competing in the Olympics at a particular discipline, they clearly know a lot about what that takes. If I can learn just some of that and apply it to my own life, perhaps I can adapt their methods and enhance my own life? I also have a particular interest in their own nutritional beliefs and practices.

Michael Stember

The first Olympian was American track & field athlete, Michael Stember, who taught a sprint class at PrimalCon last month. Being at PrimalCon he completely “gets” Paleo and everything that involves. I learnt a lot of practical running tips from him that I've been putting into practice – but what I found most enlightening was the psychology he applies to his sport. He made it really clear that just wanting to achieve a goal is not enough. To achieve a goal you have to dream about it and have the certainty that you are going to make it a reality.

Matt Welsh

Earlier this week I went to a talk by Australian Olympic swimmer Matt Welsh. He is an ambassador for a health fund, so I expected his message to be a blend of agendas. Matt started describing his own story and how he got into Swimming relatively late at the age of 18, but made the national team. I'm really interested in the mental aspect to training and achieving goals, which he spoke about at length.

Psychology

Matt started off on a smaller scale with his training – but he always kept in mind the big picture of the goal he wanted to achieve. This seems far more realistic than launching straight into a daunting regime – which is going to do anything but inspire. I was interested to hear how much importance he placed on being confident in races. He achieved this by “sabotaging” small local competitions (i.e. deliberately not wearing his swimming goggles), which meant that if something went wrong on the day of a big race, he’d already encountered that situation and knew how to deal with it. He removed the fear of the unknown by creating these different experiences.

I was also intrigued to hear the how much importance was placed on visualisation. The swimmers would visualise every detail of the race, as if they were actually in it. This process ensured that on race day they knew exactly what they were going to do, which ensured they stayed focused – at the optimum performance and arousal levels.

After the session (before I broke into my obligatory nutrition question), I asked Matt what he thought about when he was in the midst of a difficult training session. I've been asking this question of every athlete I meet, as I've found just changing my thoughts during a training session makes the difference between a dreadful session – and an exceptional session. Matt told me he used to let his mind wander and look at the tiles at the bottom of the pool – then one day he realised he was wasting his brain power. He switched his focus and would think about what his muscles were doing with each stroke – or when on the treadmill focus solely on a spot in the distance and not let his mind wander.

By-Product

It was interesting to hear Matt talk about how, when his focus was on swimming, he was fit and healthy. But being fit and healthy was a by-product of his swimming. He concentrated on training, technique, race strategy, nutrition, recovery and exercise to get to his swimming goals. When he retired from swimming all of a sudden good health and fitness were no longer automatic and for the first time in his life he had to make them his focus.

He stressed the importance of enjoying the exercise you do – and not just exercising because you feel you have to, rather because you enjoy the activity in its own right. Consistency is key.

Nutrition

I was very eager to hear what he had to say about nutrition; as you've probably gathered, this is my favourite topic. The nutrition discussion started well, as Matt stressed the importance of eating what you need, before eating what you want. If you focus on what you want you won’t have room for what you need. Sadly the nutrition section then turned into not only a teaching of conventional wisdom (food pyramids, cut out fat – you get the picture), but also a soapbox on the importance of carbohydrates (and he wasn't talking about sweet potatoes)!

Matt had mention that he’d just started reading “Sweet Poison” by David Gillespie, so I thought it was a safe bet he’d know something about Paleo. Or Primal, or an Ancestral diet – or even a Caveman diet! I wasn't sure what to ask to get onto the topic of nutrition, but I thought I’d ask what he thought about a Paleo diet, which is something that has been very beneficial to me, but seems very different to what he discussed. His answer made it apparent that he didn't know much about Paleo – but had always been taught the nutritional approach he’d spoken about and he knew there were lots of studies backing up that nutritional approach.

He’d mentioned in his talk that he doesn't think we need to know the ins and outs of nutrition (but that it’s great if you do learn). He said we all know what’s healthy and we just have to make the healthiest choice available at any given time. I found his response to my question really enlightening as I just assumed athletes would have an interest in researching nutrition and experimenting on themselves. After all, they know how essential nutrition is to their performance and recovery. Clearly this isn't the case and often the nutrition advice handed out is taken as gospel without being questioned or experimented with. Personally, I disagree. I think everybody needs to know at least the basics on nutrition. Given that we literally are what we eat – how can we not have an interesting in understanding what we eat and what our body does with it?

Do you think people need to understand a little about nutrition? Or is it enough that they follow advice that someone else has researched?

The DASH Diet

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One of the things I liked so much when I started researching about Paleo, was the ease and simplicity. The books basically tell you to eat a simple diet, of the natural foods we've evolved to eat. I found there really was nothing confusing or contentious. As well as reading the Paleo and Evolutionary health books – I read everything else I could find on nutrition. There is a book for every fad diet imaginable, with completely conflicting and confusing advice. Some of the diets just seem downright complicated to follow and devoid of any logic.

One of the best selling diet books in Australia at the moment is about the “DASH Diet”, so I couldn't resist taking a look. I've noticed the newer fad diets seem to be more closely resembling Paleo, so I always hold out hope that books like this will be about Paleo, but with a different name.

DASH stands for “Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension” and is aimed at those suffering from High Blood Pressure, though it also has a significant focus on weight loss. I had high hopes when I picked up the book – but it quickly became apparent that the book is based on the flawed food pyramid. The plan recommends a diet high in fruit, low-fat dairy and whole grains. It also advises avoiding processed food and limiting (not eliminating) sugar.

While the DASH diet is based on studies, these studies only compared three different nutritional plans. Unfortunately they don’t give the specific meal plans for each of the diets in the study, just the macro nutrient profiles – and some of the micro nutrient profiles. From this it’s apparent the DASH diet had 10% less fat than the other diets (taken entirely as Saturated fat), with the 10% added onto the protein and carbohydrate consumed. Without knowing exactly what they ate, this is rather meaningless. Cheap, commercial chocolate is high in saturated fat – as is butter – they clearly aren't equal, yet this study doesn't allow us to differentiate.

The book is full of un-Paleo recommendations such as only eating whole-grain bread, avoiding coconut oil, trimming all visible fat off meat and only eating low-fat dairy.

I'm sure someone coming from a highly processed SAD diet would (initially) see benefits on a DASH diet – but only because they had cut out processed foods, sugars and therefore reduced their carbohydrate intake. It saddens me that unwell people follow this diet in good faith – when it isn't based on good science – and certainly doesn't seem optimal.

What do you make of the DASH diet and the other fad diets out there?

Why DASH Appeals to the Mainstream

One reason the DASH diet has gained mainstream popularity is its alignment with conventional health messaging. It embraces the familiar low-fat mantra, encourages whole grains, and maintains dairy as a staple. To someone accustomed to following government-endorsed food guidelines, DASH feels like a modest and manageable shift rather than a radical overhaul. But therein lies the problem — it's not radical enough. For someone with serious metabolic issues, obesity, or autoimmune conditions, a middle-of-the-road approach like DASH may not go far enough to initiate meaningful healing.

What the Science Really Shows

The DASH diet is often praised for its backing by scientific studies, particularly those showing reduced blood pressure in participants. But context is everything. These studies often compare DASH to the Standard American Diet (SAD), which is packed with seed oils, refined grains, and sugary snacks. Any whole food-based plan — including Paleo — will outperform the SAD. So while DASH may reduce blood pressure, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the optimal diet for long-term health. Additionally, many studies fail to isolate individual dietary components, making it hard to determine whether the benefits come from reducing sugar, increasing vegetables, or simply eating less processed food.

Dairy, Grains and Low-Fat Myths

The DASH diet’s reliance on low-fat dairy, whole grains, and trimming all fat from meats reveals its roots in outdated nutritional dogma. From a Paleo perspective, these recommendations are problematic. Dairy is one of the most common allergens and inflammatory foods — not ideal for those with compromised gut health or autoimmune conditions. Whole grains, while less processed than white flour, still contain anti-nutrients like phytic acid and lectins that can irritate the gut lining. And fat — particularly saturated fat from healthy sources — is essential for hormone production, brain health, and nutrient absorption. Demonising fat is not only misguided, it’s dangerous.

The Paleo Advantage

In contrast, the Paleo approach eliminates the grey areas. It encourages eating foods our ancestors evolved to consume: high-quality animal protein, natural fats, vegetables, and some fruit. There’s no place for industrial seed oils, refined grains, or processed sugars. While DASH restricts certain foods and focuses on portion control, Paleo focuses on food quality, satiety, and nourishment. Instead of counting calories or obsessing over macros, Paleo encourages intuitive eating by choosing nutrient-dense, whole foods. This approach naturally regulates appetite and supports metabolic health.

What About Blood Pressure?

Critics of Paleo often ask how it affects blood pressure, given its inclusion of red meat and higher fat intake. However, several studies and anecdotal reports show that those switching from a high-carb, processed-food diet to Paleo often experience improved cardiovascular markers, including better blood pressure. This is likely due to reduced inflammation, weight loss, better insulin sensitivity, and increased intake of potassium-rich vegetables. Eliminating sugar and processed carbohydrates alone can have a profound impact on blood pressure — without the need to rely on low-fat yoghurt and wholemeal toast.

Psychological Simplicity

Another overlooked advantage of Paleo is how straightforward it is. The DASH diet includes specific daily servings and food group quotas — three servings of dairy, eight of whole grains, and so on — which can feel like a chore to track. Paleo eliminates this by sticking to a clear rule: if it's a whole food, eat it. If it comes in a box or has ingredients you can’t pronounce, don’t. This binary approach reduces decision fatigue, simplifies meal planning, and makes it easier to sustain in the long term.

A Better Way Forward

It’s easy to understand the appeal of a medically endorsed, evidence-based diet like DASH. But it’s important to ask deeper questions about the quality of that evidence, the context in which it was gathered, and how it applies to individuals with diverse metabolic needs. For those who have tried DASH, or other moderate diets, and still struggle with symptoms or weight, Paleo may offer a more effective and sustainable path.

There’s no need to count calories or limit salt when you’re eating real food. A steak with roast veggies, a frittata with avocado, or a handful of macadamias won’t send your blood pressure soaring. In fact, many people find their blood pressure improves naturally when they eat more mindfully and ditch the processed food altogether.

What to Watch Out For

It’s worth noting that not all versions of Paleo are the same. Some people lean too heavily on Paleo treats and recreations — think coconut flour pancakes and almond butter brownies — which can still spike insulin and reinforce poor eating habits. Just like DASH, Paleo is most effective when it focuses on real food. That means plenty of vegetables, ethically raised meats, good fats, and minimal natural sweeteners.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, any dietary change should support your unique health goals. While DASH may suit someone who’s only just begun to move away from processed food, Paleo offers a more comprehensive and ancestral template for lifelong health. If you’re tired of fads, conflicting advice, and restrictive meal plans, it might be time to return to the basics. Whole food, movement, sleep, and sunshine — simple, timeless, and powerful.

Time for a New Whole 30

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With the month of May rapidly approaching, I feel it’s the ideal time for another “Whole 30”.

What is a Whole 30?

The Whole30 is another word for “strict Paleo” for a month. This is a popular approach recommended across the Paleosphere as a way to initially get into Paleo, to identify any food intolerances you may have, or just as a means to refocus. A Whole30 means eating lots of good quality meat, eggs, vegetables a little fruit, nuts and seeds. Grains, legumes, dairy and alcohol have no place on the Whole30!

Why am I Doing Another Whole 30?

Whilst I have been following Paleo for a couple of years now, I’ve found I’ve recently got a bit lazy with my nutrition and have been having lots of the same meals over and over. Whilst there’s nothing specifically wrong with this, it’s not the most interesting approach, and probably isn’t meeting all of my micronutrient requirements. I’ve also been having dried fruit more often than I should (why did I have to discover medjool dates?)

I’ve been keen to try an auto-immune protocol for a while, so incorporating this into my Whole30 will work well. I often forget to my supplements, especially Vitamin D, so for this month I'm going to be religious about it – good timing on the Vitamin D as we’re seeing a lot less sun, as we approach winter here in Australia.

With an autoimmune protocol I will also be omitting Nightshades (tomatoes, capsicum and peppers – since I don’t have potatoes they won’t be a new omission for me) and nuts and seeds. Some people skip eggs too on an autoimmune protocol, but I think that’s a step too far for me. I don’t have any particular health issues I’m looking to clear up since Paleo took care of my Asthma, but I have suspicious I'd fare a lot better without Nightshades. All will become clear!

How to do a Whole30

The Whole30 is so easy to do, but it does require some organisation. If it’s your introduction into Paleo, it’s a good idea to clean out your cupboards and fridge before you start – get rid of anything that reminiscent from a SAD diet and make sure you have all of the herbs, spices and ingredients on hand for the coming month. There’s a fantastic step by step guide in the Whole30 ebook explaining how to go about this for success.

I use the Whole30 as a culinary challenge – I use it as an excuse to try lots of difference recipes. In fact, the last Whole30 was such an enjoyable experience last time as we ate a different meal every single day – something I’m very far from at the moment!

My Whole30 approach is to spend some time on Sundays working out what’s happening during the coming week. When I know what I'm doing each day, I flick through my Paleo Cookbooks and assign a meal to each day. I then go out and buy all of the ingredients I’ll need for that week (taking a lot of care to ensure everything will be as fresh as possible on the day I have planned to eat it!) and prep anything I can in advance. This time I’m going to quadruple everything I cook, to stock the freezer up with lots of different lunch options to take into work.

I'm going to track my Whole30 using Cronometer, so I can get a good assessment of where my macro and micro nutrient ratios sit over the month. This month should give me some good tools (and recipes!) to tweak my diet after the Whole30.

Fortunately my housemate is also very keen to do another Whole30 – sharing the shopping, cooking and culinary inspiration certainly makes it a lot easier!

Have you done a Whole30 yet? How did you find it? Care to join me for a Whole30 May?

Why a Whole30 Reset Might Be Just What You Need

Whether you're new to Paleo or just need to reset and refocus, a Whole30 can be an incredibly effective way to break habits, try new meals, and tune into how food actually makes you feel. It’s not just about cutting out sugar or grains — it’s about being intentional, organised, and committed to nourishing your body.

If you're in Australia heading into winter, now is a great time to prioritise nutrient-dense meals, up your Vitamin D, and experiment with variations like the autoimmune protocol. And if you’ve fallen into the trap of same-same meals or relying on too many “Paleo treats” (we see you, medjool dates), this 30-day challenge is a great circuit breaker.

Want to join me for a Whole30 this May? Let me know in the comments if you're in — or share your favourite tips, recipes, or lessons from your last Whole30! Let’s do this together.

Planning for Whole30 Success: Meal Prep, Mindset & More

Taking on a Whole30 challenge is about more than just avoiding certain foods — it’s a mindset shift that requires intention, planning, and curiosity. Whether this is your first or fifth round, every Whole30 offers something new: a deeper awareness of your habits, a fresh perspective on food, and a valuable reset that leaves you feeling more energised and in control.

Stock Your Paleo Pantry for Whole30

To make things easier, take time before you begin to restock your pantry and fridge with Whole30-compliant staples. These will form the base of most of your meals:

Proteins: Grass-fed beef, organic chicken, lamb, seafood, pasture-raised eggs
Vegetables: Leafy greens, cruciferous veg, carrots, mushrooms, zucchini, pumpkin, cauliflower, asparagus, etc.
Fats: Extra virgin olive oil, avocado oil, tallow, duck fat, coconut oil
Flavour: Fresh herbs, garlic, ginger, turmeric, compliant spice blends, coconut aminos, apple cider vinegar
Broths: Homemade or Whole30-compliant bone broth (ideal for sipping or cooking)

Avoid anything with added sugar, soy, seed oils, grains, legumes, or dairy — including sneaky culprits like sauces and spice mixes.

Batch Cooking = Weekday Lifesaver

If your weekdays are busy, the real game-changer is batch cooking. Set aside a few hours on the weekend to:

Roast a tray of mixed vegetables (carrot, sweet potato, onion, pumpkin)
Make a big pot of curry, chilli, or soup
Grill or slow-cook a bulk batch of chicken thighs or beef mince
Hard boil eggs or make egg muffins for quick breakfasts
Prep salad boxes with protein, leafy greens, and compliant dressing stored separately

Label, portion, and freeze where possible. You’ll thank yourself later.

Simple Whole30 Meal Ideas

Running out of inspiration by week two? Try these easy, compliant meal combos:

Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with spinach, sweet potato and avocado
Lunch: Leftover roast chicken, roasted pumpkin, and kale salad with olive oil and lemon
Dinner: Grass-fed mince beef stir-fry with bok choy, garlic, ginger, and coconut aminos
Snack (if needed): A handful of raw macadamias or boiled eggs with veggie sticks

Don’t forget hydration — herbal teas, water with fresh lemon, and bone broth all count.

What You Might Notice During Your Whole30

Every Whole30 experience is different, but here are a few common things you might experience:

Days 2–5: The “carb flu” as your body adjusts to not having sugar or grains. Rest and hydrate.
Days 6–15: Improved digestion, better sleep, clearer skin, and more stable moods.
Days 16–30: More consistent energy, less bloating, and a clear sense of how food affects your body.

If you’re adding in the autoimmune protocol (AIP), you may also get greater insight into whether foods like nightshades or nuts are affecting your health.

Keep It Social (and Sustainable)

Whole30 doesn’t mean isolating yourself — it’s a great excuse to host dinners, share recipes, and inspire your community. Share your progress online, cook with friends, or invite someone to join you for the month. The accountability helps.

And don’t forget: reintroduction at the end is just as important. Use it to test how different foods make you feel — one food group at a time — and refine your long-term Paleo approach.

Thinking of starting your own Whole30? Whether it’s your first or your fifth, this might just be the motivation you need to reset your health and refocus your meals. I’d love to hear your meal planning tips, prep routines, or favourite Whole30 recipes in the comments below.

Let’s make May the month we reconnect with real food — together.

Paleo Meets Vegan Meets Vegetarian

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On the way to LAX airport from PrimalCon, my new friend Jennifer and I stopped off in Santa Monica for coffee (Jennifer) and tea (me). We got talking to an interesting couple, who seemed keen to find out about us, as soon as they realised we had different accents to them.

They were asking what we were doing in California, to which we replied rather vaguely, telling them we’d been to a health conference. The conversation then progressed onto health and how healthy our new friends believed they were. That’s where they proudly told us they were Vegan, clearly of the popular belief that that is the ultimate in healthy lifestyles. That wasn't really a conversation I felt like having, so didn't delve further. However, it wasn't long before they asked exactly what our health conference was about. Before I could say it was a Kettlebell conference (I know, gutless – but this was Vegans on their home turf) Jennifer quickly announced we’d been to PrimalCon – and were Paleo, pretty much the opposite to Vegans. Carnivores. I filled the silence by explaining how we actually have a lot in common. We don’t eat feed lock, intensively farmed meat. We are really careful to ensure our meat is ethical and comes from well cared for animals, in their natural environment and fed their natural diet. They seemed to accept this, before the woman started to tell us how she could never eat a cute, soft, cuddly, beautiful cow and how if she saw one she’d have to take it home so she could pat it and stroke it all day. Or something like that.

This conversation (and the book I'm currently reading “The Vegetarian Myth”) has got me thinking about the similarities and differences between being Paleo and being Vegetarian or Vegan.

Is it possible to be Vegan or Vegetarian and Paleo?

I've even seen increasing numbers of people on Paleo forums posing the question as to whether it is possible to follow a Paleo lifestyle as a Vegan or Vegetarian. Denice Minger has a talk about this very subject. With the absence of meat and dairy too (in the case of Vegans) this group often rely heavily on grains as a source of calories and legumes as a protein source. A shift from a grain and legume heavy diet, to a meat-free Paleo diet would be quite a transition, but theoretically possible – probably involving lots of nutritionally dense eggs. I guess it’s a lot easier for those Vegetarians who do eat fish (Pescetarians) – that would certainly make following a Paleo style diet a lot easier…

The Vegetarian/ Vegan is Healthy Myth

I don’t think it’s accurate to assume that just because someone is Vegetarian they automatically live a supremely healthy lifestyle. Whilst a lot of Vegetarians are healthy, there also seem to be a lot of “Junk Food Vegetarians”. So many processed foods have the “V” Vegetarian symbol. In fact, it would be very easy for a Vegetarian to conduct their entire diet through packets of processed foods, without a vegetable in sight. I think this is where Paleo differs. Whilst I'm sure industry will start to produce “Paleo Processed Foods”, they will never be Paleo – as the whole basis of Paleo is to eat natural, uncomplicated, whole foods.

From Vegetarian/ Vegan to Paleo?

A lot of people do seem to become Vegetarian or Vegan through concern for their health. It amazes me how many of those now following a Paleo lifestyle used to be Vegetarian of Vegan, in fact, the 2012 Paleo Survey results show that over 38% of Paleo respondents used to follow either of those lifestyles. I have a lot of respect for these people, as it can’t be easy to go through such a transformation. How do you start the process of telling your friends and family you now eat meat? Do you spend time as a secret meat eater before casually ordering a steak at dinner with friends?

Have you ever been Vegetarian or Vegan? Do you think Paleo is the polar opposite lifestyle?

Living in a SAD Beige World

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Whenever I watch the Biggest Loser and they show the former diet of the contestants, I'm always struck by the colours of the food. Almost everything they ate is beige, brown and anaemic yellow in colour, broken up with the black of the cokes they drank (usually diet, clearly that worked) and a few fluorescent coloured sweets and cakes.

Burger buns, bread, pizza, chips, fries, crisps, popcorn, pastries, cakes, biscuits, sugary milky coffee – it’s all virtually the same colour. It seems utterly depressing eating beige foods the entire time; it must start turn your World, well, beige after a while.

Contrast that with a healthy Paleo or Primal diet where virtually every colour seems to be represented. Certain colours are actually attributed to certain properties – for example the vibrant orange foods like Carrots and Capsicum provide Beta Carotene and dark green vegetables are rich in Vitamin K. It’s not just pretty, eating lots of different colours really is essential for a good nutrient intake.

How colourful is your diet? Could you live in a beige world?

Why Colour Matters in a Healthy Paleo Diet

One of the most striking visual differences between the Standard Australian (or American) Diet — often abbreviated as the SAD diet — and a nutrient-rich Paleo lifestyle is exactly that: colour. The SAD diet is dominated by processed carbohydrates, seed oils, and added sugars. These foods are not only nutrient-poor but visually dull, often coming in shades of beige, white, or faded brown. Sausage rolls. White toast. Muffins. Chicken nuggets. They all blend into the same lifeless palette.

By contrast, a real food Paleo diet is filled with vibrant colour — deep green spinach, bold orange pumpkin, ruby-red beetroot, golden yolks from pasture-raised eggs, and the rich purples and blues of seasonal berries. These aren’t just pretty to look at. The pigments in these foods represent phytochemicals, antioxidants, and vitamins that play crucial roles in everything from cellular repair to hormone function and immune health.

The Rainbow Rule

If your plate looks like a rainbow, you’re almost guaranteed to be feeding your body a wide array of nutrients. Different colours often indicate different health-promoting compounds:

Red (tomatoes, strawberries, capsicum): Lycopene and anthocyanins — heart and skin support
Orange/Yellow (carrots, sweet potatoes, turmeric): Beta-carotene, lutein — vision and immune support
Green (spinach, kale, broccoli): Chlorophyll, folate, Vitamin K — detoxification and bone health
Blue/Purple (blueberries, eggplant, purple cabbage): Anthocyanins — cognitive and cardiovascular support
White/Brown (garlic, cauliflower, mushrooms): Allicin and selenium — anti-inflammatory and immune function

When was the last time a sausage roll provided that kind of nutritional support?

Beige Foods: A Warning Sign

When meals come from boxes and bags, they often have one thing in common — their beige appearance. It’s not just a visual cue; it’s a red flag. Ultra-processed foods have often had the nutrients stripped out during manufacturing and rely on additives, refined grains, and industrial oils for flavour and shelf life. Their uniform blandness is symbolic of their lack of diversity and life-enhancing qualities.

While there’s no denying that beige foods are convenient, they don’t nourish. Over time, a beige diet may contribute to fatigue, hormonal imbalance, inflammation, and a growing list of modern health issues.

Eating With Your Eyes (And Gut)

When your plate is colourful, you’re not only boosting your health — you’re also changing your relationship with food. Colourful meals feel more alive, more satisfying, and more inspiring to eat. You begin to look forward to your next meal, not because you’re chasing a sugar hit or the dopamine spike from processed snacks, but because you genuinely enjoy the textures, colours, and flavours of real food.

If you ever find your Paleo meals becoming repetitive or uninspiring, ask yourself: what colour is missing from your plate?

Add shredded beetroot or purple cabbage to your salad
Top your roasted veggies with pomegranate seeds or fresh herbs
Swap white potatoes for golden pumpkin or deep-orange kumara
Try new vegetables from the farmers market you’ve never cooked before

Breaking Free from the Beige

Many people come to Paleo for weight loss or digestive health — but they stay for how good it feels to be well-nourished. A colourful plate is an easy and powerful way to track your nutrient variety without counting anything.

So next time you’re tempted by something bland and beige, remember what it represents — and how different your body feels when you eat food that’s full of life and colour.

How colourful is your plate today? What are your go-to vegetables or fruits to brighten up your meals? Share your favourites — and your tips to avoid falling back into beige — in the comments below.

Let’s build a world that’s vibrant on the plate and in how we feel.

PrimalCon 2012

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After a 14-hour flight, five movies, no sleep and more intermittent fasting than planned (more on that in a future post) – I made it back to Sydney from PrimalCon yesterday, exhausted – but very inspired!

This was my second year at PrimalCon, so I had a better idea of what to expect this year – and even some wonderful friends from last year I was excited to see again.

Last year was my first time in California, so I assumed it was always hot and sunny there. Packing with that assumption was a big mistake! The weather completely changed on Friday, the first full day of PrimalCon, so much so that the day’s activities were moved inside – thank goodness! I must make sure I bring some warmer clothes next year, just in case.

When I first arrived at the resort, I noticed a few people in minimalist footwear who I knew must be there for PrimalCon – and people drinking energy drinks who I knew I could safely guarantee weren't there for the same reasons!

The PrimalCon Experts

I finally got to meet Primal Girl, Tara Grant in person at registration. We’d been in contact over email, but it’s definitely no substitute for meeting in real life. Tara was there for the whole weekend answering questions, telling her own story and giving ideas to the participants. She really is such an inspiration and looks the image of health!

Last year Barefoot Ted’s session was my introduction to barefoot running. Since then I’ve been wearing Vibrams regularly, so I learnt so much more from him this year. Ted is a great storyteller and teacher. During a break in the rain we went outside for his class. Predictably as soon as we got to the furthest point, the storm came back with a vengeance, giving us even more incentive to put what we’d learnt into practice to sprint back to the hotel as quickly as possible!

The sprint clinic with Olympian Michael Stember dovetailed perfectly with the barefoot running class, I’m really looking forward to putting everything I’ve learnt into practice and trying to make my running style look and feel as effortless as both Michael and Barefoot Ted’s.

William Vives is a regular at PrimalCon and an expert on kettlebells and fitness and took his session in a corridor of the hotel (the rain was that heavy!) focusing on getting the techniques right. This was a great session as it’s all too easy to get distracted by speed and number of reps – and letting form suffer. I've been using kettlebells for a while, but learnt so much that was completely new to me in William’s class. William gave me so many fantastic tips and advice which I'm so grateful for – I feel like he’s helped to bring my fitness goals a lot closer. If only we had a William Vives in Australia!

One of the sessions I’d been looking forward to the most was Erwan Le Corre, founder of MovNat. I’d heard him speak at the AHS 2011, but his brand of teaching needs to be on the move, not behind a lectern. Unfortunately my group was the first; we were hoping for a break in the weather, but it just got worse and worse. In true Primal style, we persevered, crawling, jumping and lying on the ground. Despite the weather, it was enough to convince me to sign up for one of his 7-day courses – once I master pull-ups (Erwan says this isn't essential, but I want to get the maximum benefit from his class). Other than the class it was fascinating watching Erwan over the weekend. He never seemed to sit – even at lunch he ate his lunch from a grok squat on his chair. He also seems to look at the world in an entirely different way – I could see him studying the ground and objects, working out how he could get across/ over/ under/ along different surfaces. He really does live and breathe MovNat!

Mark Sisson took a couple of sessions talking and answering all sorts of different questions. It’s really interesting to hear which topics are hot issues at the moment. Predictably Cold Thermogenesis was of interest, as Jack Kruse has recently brought to the attention of the Paleo community. Ketosis was another issue that was asked about in various guises.

Kelly Starrett was new this year and was such a pleasure to listen to – he spoke about mobility, which is so important, yet really overlooked. I’d planned to catch up with him later to find out more, but got sidetracked with all of the other things that were going on.

I’d barely even noticed Vanessa and Adam Lambert on the schedule with Olympic Lifting. This was one of the choice sessions and I was delighted to have a one-on-one session with Adam. I've been interested in Olympic Lifting for a while, but had never actually tried it before. It was amazing, my favourite session of the weekend! I went from being really unsure of the strange movements, to some great lifting. I want more of this! Vanessa used to train with Robb Wolf and was giving some incredible gymnastics lessons and demonstrations. Perhaps at next year's PrimalCon I’ll give that more of a try.

Chef Rachel Albert was also back from last year, only this year her Paleo cookery demonstration was from a beach house. I’d learnt so much last year, so had high expectations this time – and she didn't disappoint. Her demonstration was full of so many tips, often really simple ideas, but things I’d just never thought of doing before! It’s great to have a chef championing Paleo cooking at PrimalCon

As you’d expect from PrimalCon, the food was absolutely amazing. I find it so hard to get Turkey and Kale in Australia, so made the most of their abundance! On the first evening we were served a soup and my first thought was that I would obviously have to leave it – then I remembered where I was! It’s such a wonderfully refreshing change knowing that all of the food was 100% Primal, not a grain or legume in sight – and certainly nothing processed.

It’s funny meeting so many people with the same beliefs on nutrition; you’d think all of the conversation would be about being Paleo, but it’s not at all. You already know you have that common basis and so much else to discuss. There were quite a few of us from overseas this year, including a few from Europe and the UK and even another Sydneysider – who’d have thought!

I’ve come away from PrimalCon feeling inspired with new friends and so many new tips and ideas I'm itching to put into practice. I hope to see more of you there again next year, for PrimalCon 2013!

Why Events Like PrimalCon Matter for the Paleo Community

Attending events like PrimalCon is about so much more than just learning new techniques — it’s about immersing yourself in a like-minded community that supports your personal growth, health, and lifestyle choices. For anyone following a Paleo diet in Australia or elsewhere, travelling to an event like this can help solidify your commitment and spark new inspiration to take your primal lifestyle to the next level.

The magic of PrimalCon lies in its combination of expert-led movement sessions, practical health education, and social connection. It brings together Paleo enthusiasts, from complete beginners to seasoned health practitioners, to share ideas, challenge norms, and explore what a natural, ancestral health lifestyle really looks like in today’s modern world.

Whether it's barefoot running with Barefoot Ted, exploring movement patterns with Erwan Le Corre, or delving into real food cooking with Chef Rachel Albert, the sessions offer something that books and podcasts alone can’t provide: hands-on experience and personal connection.

Learning Beyond the Theory

One of the biggest takeaways from events like this is how important it is to learn in a real-world setting. It’s one thing to read about Olympic lifting or MovNat principles; it’s another to actually get one-on-one guidance from professionals who live and breathe it every day. These experiences offer not just better form and technique, but a mindset shift — a more natural, confident approach to health and movement.

Real Food in the Real World

The food at PrimalCon was a standout — and not just because it tasted great. It’s incredibly reassuring to be in an environment where Paleo nutrition is normal. You don’t need to double-check ingredients or ask about gluten, grains, or seed oils. Everything is aligned with how we strive to eat at home: unprocessed, clean, and nourishing.

For those in Australia following the Paleo lifestyle, this can serve as a reminder that building or joining a community of likeminded individuals is worth the effort – even if it starts with just a meetup, a shared meal, or a local group workout.

Bringing the Inspiration Back to Australia

Now back in Sydney, the challenge is to bring this energy and mindset home – continuing to move naturally, eat simply, and connect deeply. I’ve already incorporated a few things I learned into my daily routine: mobility work from Kelly Starrett’s session, form corrections from Olympic lifting, and even the simple act of eating lunch more mindfully (and sometimes from a squat, MovNat-style!).

Events like PrimalCon remind us that Paleo is not a diet trend. It’s a way of living that connects us to our roots – through food, movement, community, and nature.

If you’ve ever considered attending a Paleo event like this, whether in Australia or overseas, I can’t recommend it highly enough. It’s an incredible investment in your health, mindset, and long-term motivation. I’ll be counting down until next year’s event – and if you’re going too, I’d love to connect.

Have you attended PrimalCon or any other ancestral health or Paleo-focused event? What was your biggest takeaway? Let me know in the comments below.

The paleo diet weekend event sydney Australia NSW buy tickets seminar conference expo-min

The Paleo Weekend – New Tickets Released!

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Note: This is an old post – the next weekend has not yet been finalised, but please sign up to my newsletter if you are interested in the next event!

With just over three weeks left until Australia’s first Paleo Weekend, I’m delighted to announce two new tickets

Choose to come to Cockatoo Island for either the Saturday sessions for $145, the Sunday sessions for just $95 – or both days for $195!

These tickets are for the sessions only – but upgrades are available including all Paleo meals and overnight accommodation on the island!

Saturdays Paleo Lectures will include:

Jamie Scott,
Dr Anastasia Boulais,
Julianna Taylor and
Dr. Ron Ehrlich
Fitness techniques, and
Max DeLacy on barefoot running

Sundays Paleo Lectures will include:

Monica Moore’s early morning yoga,
Kevin Bees on peak performance and achieving goals
Fitness techniques
Paleo Cooking demonstration, and
The role & impact of Agriculture and Farming

For full details – read the Paleo Weekend FAQs

Numbers are strictly limited, so secure your place today

What Made the Paleo Weekend Australia So Special?

The first ever Paleo Weekend in Australia was more than just a two-day event – it was the start of something much bigger. Hosted on Cockatoo Island in Sydney Harbour, the event brought together Paleo enthusiasts, practitioners, and curious newcomers for a truly immersive experience into ancestral health, real food, and natural movement.

Unlike typical health expos, the Paleo Weekend focused on depth over hype. With science-backed talks, practical demonstrations, nourishing meals, and a strong sense of community, it set a new standard for what a real food and wellness event could look like in Australia.

The Lead-Up to Paleo Weekend: Anticipation and Momentum

In the weeks leading up to the weekend, interest in the event exploded. With a growing Paleo community across Australia and New Zealand, it was clear that people were ready for something more than just online resources. They wanted to connect in person, ask questions face-to-face, and spend time with others who ‘got it’ when it came to bone broth, barefoot movement, and ditching seed oils.

The release of additional ticket types – offering more flexible access to either Saturday or Sunday sessions – was a game-changer. For many people, this made the event more accessible and gave them a chance to attend even if they couldn’t commit to the full weekend or overnight stays.

A Closer Look at the Saturday Line-Up

Saturday's programme was stacked with leading names in the Paleo and ancestral health world. Attendees enjoyed a full day of high-impact talks and hands-on sessions including:

Jamie Scott – Offering insights into nutrition and performance from an evolutionary perspective
Dr Anastasia Boulais – Sharing her clinical knowledge of Paleo as applied in healthcare
Julianna Taylor – Exploring functional fitness, especially for women
Dr Ron Ehrlich – Talking about oral health, stress, and systemic wellbeing through a holistic lens
Max DeLacy – Leading a barefoot running session, teaching natural gait and movement restoration

Saturday also included movement techniques, mobility drills, and opportunities for Q&A with the presenters – all designed to equip attendees with tools to implement Paleo living beyond the weekend itself.

Sunday’s Programme: From Cooking to Mindset

Sunday continued the momentum, focusing on integration and sustainability of the Paleo lifestyle. Highlights included:

Monica Moore’s early morning yoga session – Setting the tone with mindful movement
Kevin Bees – A compelling talk on mindset, goal setting, and how to stay motivated for long-term health success
Fitness workshops – Emphasising functional strength, mobility, and play-based exercise
Paleo cooking demonstrations – Showing just how delicious and practical Paleo meals can be
Agriculture & sustainability discussions – Offering important context on farming, food production, and ethical sourcing

Sunday was designed to tie together the foundational principles of Paleo – food, movement, rest, and community – and show how they work in real life. By the end of the weekend, most attendees had a game plan for applying these concepts in their own kitchens and communities.

Cockatoo Island: The Perfect Setting

The choice of Cockatoo Island was no accident. Set in the middle of Sydney Harbour, this UNESCO World Heritage site offered a unique backdrop – part history, part nature escape. The island’s rugged, industrial charm gave attendees the chance to step out of modern life and into something more primal. The views, fresh air, and sense of separation from the city helped set the tone for two days of reconnection, education, and reflection.

Some participants chose to stay overnight in tents or heritage-listed accommodation, adding a further immersive layer to the experience. Eating Paleo meals under the stars, sharing stories over kombucha, and waking up to the sounds of nature created a truly memorable weekend.

The Paleo Weekend Philosophy

At its core, the Paleo Weekend wasn’t just about food or fitness. It was about rediscovering a way of living that aligns with our biology – something modern life so often pulls us away from. The event championed:

Real food – Seasonal, local, ethical, and nutrient-dense
Natural movement – Playful, varied, and functional exercise
Sleep, sun, and stress reduction – The often-forgotten foundations of good health
Community and connection – Because health is about more than just the individual

These pillars were woven into every session, meal, and activity – creating a holistic, practical, and truly supportive environment.

Who Came to the Paleo Weekend?

One of the most exciting parts of the event was the diversity of attendees. People came from all across Australia (and even New Zealand) to take part. There were:

Health practitioners wanting a deeper understanding of Paleo principles
Fitness professionals exploring natural movement techniques
Busy parents looking for real food strategies for their families
Beginners curious about ancestral living
Long-time Paleo eaters hungry for inspiration and community

Everyone brought something different to the weekend – questions, experiences, ideas – and everyone left feeling enriched, empowered, and connected.

Will There Be Another Paleo Weekend?

If you’re reading this post and wondering if the next Paleo Weekend in Australia is happening soon – you’re not alone. The enthusiasm and feedback from the original event have made it clear that there’s demand for more.

Plans for a future weekend are in the works, though dates have not yet been finalised. It’s likely we’ll return with an updated format, new speakers, and fresh locations – possibly rotating across the country to bring the event to more communities. Locations under consideration include the Central Coast, Melbourne’s Dandenong Ranges, and Byron Bay.

Want to be the first to know? Be sure to sign up to the newsletter and you’ll receive advance notice as soon as future dates are confirmed.

What Past Attendees Are Saying

Here’s just a snippet of the feedback from those who attended the original Paleo Weekend:

“The best event I’ve ever attended – so much real value. I came home energised and ready to take charge of my health.” – Sarah, Brisbane
“Absolutely loved the cooking demos! I’ve already made the liver pate twice!” – James, Melbourne
“Meeting other Paleo people in real life made such a difference. I don’t feel like a weirdo anymore!” – Kristy, Sydney

Can’t Wait? Host a Local Meetup

If you missed the last Paleo Weekend and don’t want to wait for the next one, why not bring the community to you? Organising a local Paleo Meetup is a great way to connect with others, share ideas, and stay motivated. Whether it’s a picnic, walk, or potluck dinner, you’ll be surprised how many people in your area are also on the same journey.

If you’re not sure where to start, feel free to contact me – I’d love to help you get something off the ground in your area.

Final Thoughts on Paleo Weekend Australia

The Paleo Weekend wasn’t just an event – it was the beginning of something bigger. It proved that people are hungry (literally and figuratively) for deeper health, better food, and a return to community. From lectures to movement sessions to shared meals, it was a celebration of everything the Paleo lifestyle represents.

Were you there? I’d love to hear your memories in the comments below. And if you’re keen to attend the next one, make sure you're on the newsletter list – because trust me, the next Paleo Weekend is going to be even better.

Best Australian Blogs 2012 Competition

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I'm very excited to be a nominee in the Best Australian Blogs 2012 competition! I seem to be the only Paleo/ Primal blog in the competition, so it would be great to get into the final, so more people find out what this Paleo thing is all about!

If you feel inclined to vote, I'm on the fifth page as “The Paleo Network” and I'd love your support!

Why Blogging Still Matters in the Paleo World

Since starting this site, I've been continually amazed by the Paleo community – not just how welcoming and supportive it is, but how engaged, curious, and passionate people are about living well. Blogging might feel a bit retro these days, but it continues to be one of the most powerful tools we have to share ideas, connect with others, and question the mainstream.

Being nominated in the Best Australian Blogs competition back in 2012 was an exciting milestone for me, not just because of the exposure it offered, but because it was an early sign that the Paleo movement was gaining traction here in Australia. At the time, Paleo was still widely misunderstood – and definitely seen as fringe by most health professionals and media outlets.

But this blog – and the many others like it – helped change that.

The Rise of Paleo in Australia

In the early 2010s, Paleo was slowly making its way into the Australian conversation. People were beginning to question food pyramid guidelines, investigate the role of sugar and grains in inflammation, and think more critically about modern processed foods. It was an exciting time – and also a confusing one.

There weren’t that many reliable Australian-based Paleo resources. Much of the information came from the US, which, while useful, didn’t always translate well to our local food options, brands, or health systems. That’s why being part of a growing Australian-based Paleo blogosphere felt so important. It was about creating a resource grounded in our landscape, our lifestyle, and our realities – whether that meant understanding Medicare rebates for functional medicine, or knowing which supermarket brands of tinned coconut milk didn't contain thickeners or gums.

Blogging vs Social Media: Why Long-Form Still Wins

With the rise of Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, it’s easy to assume blogging might have had its day. But long-form content still serves a critical purpose – especially in the Paleo and health space. Social media is brilliant for inspiration, short hacks, or beautiful food photos – but it’s not where you go for in-depth recipes, scientific explanations, or nuanced comparisons of food quality and sourcing.

Blog posts allow space to:

Break down complicated topics like the differences between grain-fed and grass-fed beef
Share personal health journeys or Whole30 recaps
Review Paleo products in detail
Explore deeper issues like environmental sustainability, ethical meat sourcing, or food labelling laws in Australia

Google also continues to favour long, in-depth content when it comes to SEO – meaning blog posts often rank better and longer than fast-moving social media content. That’s another reason competitions like the Best Australian Blogs are valuable – they shine a spotlight on this kind of work and remind readers of the depth that long-form writing can offer.

How Blogging Helped Grow the Paleo Network

Since launching this site, I’ve received hundreds (if not thousands) of emails and comments from people who’ve found a recipe that helped them stay on track, a piece of advice that made the transition to Paleo easier, or simply a sense of relief that they weren’t alone in feeling overwhelmed by nutrition dogma.

That kind of connection is what blogging does best.

I’ve also had the opportunity to connect with so many amazing people in the Paleo, Primal, and real food world – from local butchers and farmers to nutritionists, CrossFit coaches, and passionate home cooks. Being nominated for a blog award was a nudge to keep going – and to keep creating helpful, inspiring content that’s grounded in real Australian life.

The Challenges of Running a Health Blog

Of course, it's not always easy. Writing consistently while juggling life, work, and everything in between can be a challenge. Algorithms change, website updates break things, and sometimes it feels like you’re writing into the void. But then someone leaves a comment saying the beef and kale stir-fry helped them get through a tough week, or that your explanation of seed oils helped them understand what was upsetting their digestion – and it makes it all worthwhile.

There’s also the responsibility of staying up-to-date with research, avoiding fear-mongering, and presenting a balanced, evidence-informed view. Paleo has grown and evolved over the years – and so have my views. That’s why I’m passionate about continual learning and updating old posts where needed.

How You Can Support Paleo Bloggers

Blogging might seem like a solo endeavour, but readers play a huge role in making it worthwhile. If you enjoy the content you read – whether it’s here or on any other site – there are a few ways you can help support it:

Leave a comment – It helps with SEO, but more importantly, it shows the writer someone’s listening
Share a post on Facebook, Pinterest, or with a friend – Word of mouth is still the most powerful marketing there is
Subscribe to newsletters – It’s the best way to stay connected and see the newest posts
Support affiliate links or product recommendations – If they’re products you’d buy anyway, it’s a no-cost way to support the blog
Vote in blog competitions – Like the Best Australian Blogs comp – these votes help Paleo blogs gain mainstream visibility

Looking Forward: The Future of This Blog

Although this post is a flashback to 2012, the core mission of this blog hasn’t changed: to make it easier for Australians to embrace a Paleo lifestyle in a realistic, accessible, and inspiring way.

In the years since, I’ve written hundreds of posts, developed multiple recipe books, shared my Whole30 experiences, and explored everything from hormone health to barefoot running. And there’s so much more to come.

Whether you’re here for meal inspiration, troubleshooting your digestion, navigating kids lunchboxes, or just curious about ancestral living – thank you for being here. Your support is what makes this blog continue to thrive.

Final Thoughts

Being part of the Best Australian Blogs competition was never about the trophy or the votes – it was about standing up for something that matters. A reminder that food can heal. That community counts. And that every blog post, no matter how small, can be part of a much bigger movement.

If you’re new to Paleo, welcome – there are hundreds of articles here to get you started. If you’ve been reading for a while, thank you – it means the world.

And if you're ever wondering if one person can make a difference? You just did.

What’s Next for the Paleo Movement?

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I often wonder what will happen with the Future nutrition of the Western Nations. With mounting evidence and the growing popularity of Paleo, surely the mainstream conventional wisdom has to shift?

People used to believe the World was flat and that smoking was healthy. Before the internet came along the minority have been able to convince the majority – and shift many beliefs in the past. Why can’t the same happen with Paleo?

Road Blocks

The Industry leaders and other influencers already know that the lipid hypothesis is wrong. They know the food pyramid does not represent a healthy diet. They know they are deliberately encouraging people to eat a sub-optimal diet.

The problem seems to be entirely a financial one. Billions are spent on drugs like Statins, Antacids and Diabetes medication. Monsanto reported a profit of $1.21 billion for the quarter ended 29th February 2012! None of that was from anything that went on the Paleo plate.

Most of the profit in food comes from processing it – this option doesn't exist to the same extent with a Paleo style diet. If everyone stopped eating grains and processed food – and became healthier, what would happen to the pharmaceutical and food industries?!

The other road block is time and convenience, particularly for organisations that provide food. Schools and hospitals can reheat cheap food quickly and easily – and store it for long periods of time. They won’t be too keen on the extra time (and therefore cost) needed to prepare meals from whole ingredients – and the increase in deliveries needed for fresh, over processed long-life foods.

The Long View

Of course, the flip side is that healthier citizens would lead to decreased medical expenses in the future. Healthier people are more productive and live longer – far better for the economy. Whilst some industries would falter, others would flourish as people became healthier and more active.

How Will Change Happen?

There are six distinct stages in the acceptance of change, shock, denial, anger, passive acceptance, exploration and challenge. I don’t see any reason why the widespread acceptance of a different nutrition model wouldn't follow this path.

1. Shock

I think we've passed this stage.

This is the disbelief that people are seriously suggesting eating meat is healthy – and saying that whole grains aren't healthy.

To those who have grown up alongside conventional wisdom, with have deep held nutritional beliefs – shock is the natural reaction to something so contra to their core beliefs. Hearing a similar message from an increasing number of sources will help somewhat to reduce the initial shock and come to grips with the new idea they have just heard.

2. Denial

Once the initial shock has had time to dissipate, denial is the next stage. I think we are currently in the grips of this stage. Refusing to accept Conventional Wisdom may be wrong – and desperately clinging onto it. Deny, deny, deny. Every day I read more and higher profiled warnings against the Paleo diet (by the food and health industry – and those paid to support them). Of course, they have an ulterior motive behind their denials – but with their weight they can cause serious ruptures and give the trusting public the belief that they too should deny.

3. Anger

Whilst we’re mainly in the denial stage, I think we’re starting to see the anger stage emerging, particularly from those who have a lot vested in the SAD diet such as the food and pharmaceutical industries. I imagine a lot of anger and resistance will be seen from individuals, happy with how they currently lead their lives and reluctant to give up the foods they enjoy and perceive to do them no harm. I would also expect some anger will be directed at governments and health authorities, when individuals realise they have been misinformed for such a long time. Anger is likely to be the most difficult stage, with people actively resisting and attacking the Paleo movement.

4. Passive Acceptance

Once the anger dissipates and people start to realise Paleo is not a fad that is going to disappear, acceptance will slowly take hold. This is the stage where governments and health organisations will have to address their recommendations. This certainly won’t be the point for the Paleo community to breathe a sigh of relief – this will be the time to provide more information to more people – to make the transition easier and information accessible to the masses.

5. Exploration

Once an ancestral diet is accepted, a lot of effort will need to be spent exploring how this can be adapted to the mainstream? Food and labelling laws may need to be changed, a new food pyramid agreed on and promoted and medical recommendations changed.

6. Challenge

This is an important stage and where we are within the community right now. Instead of just accepting ideas, they should constantly be challenged and explored as new research and ideas evolve.

What will the Catalysts for Change be?

To go from where we are today, to the point where Paleo hits the mainstream a number of things need to happen. Whilst Paleo blogs and books seem to be having a huge impact, will this be enough for widespread change? I think it’s far more likely a high profiled Paleo individual will take Paleo to the mainstream; such is the impact of the celebrity culture in the Western World. A number of people in the public eye have been spotted wearing Vibrams and talk about nutrition in terms close to Paleo, so I’m convinced this will happen soon. As the Paleo movement becomes more and more popular, I hope to see more studies and research backing up the science and convincing the sceptics.

Once the movement is too big to ignore, I like to think the government of a country like Australia or New Zealand will be first to formalise Paleo nutrition in their official nutrition and health recommendations. Once a country has successful paved the way, it would be extremely difficult for the remaining Western Nations to ignore. Isn't this what happened as smoking in public places became banned across the Western World?

The Future

Once Paleo is Conventional Wisdom, perhaps the differing brands of Paleo we see today will become opposing camps, such as High Carb Paleo vs Low Carb Ketogenic Paleo?

Land use will change from grain and intensive farming to a more local, organic model, with grain grown almost exclusively for animal feed?

Will grain based foods be sold under licence and bought only for special occasions? Or will only grain free versions be available?

With the rapid growth, popularity and science backing this movement, I don’t think it’s even an option for change not to occur.

How do you see the future of Paleo? (When) do you think widespread change will occur?