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paleo diet Acronyms jargon guide list-min

The Top 20 Paleo Acronyms

There is so much jargon used in the Paleo-sphere and people often ask what a particular abbreviation means. This is my list of what I think are the 20 most commonly used terms.

1. N=1 This is used to indicate a personal experiment; your own experience

2. SAD The Standard American Diet (but I think this works just as well with Australian or Anglo too) – i.e. the western diet.

3. CW Conventional Wisdom, generally of the “eat more whole grains” variety

4. GF Gluten-Free

5. IF Intermittent Fasting (though often used talking about any type of fasting, event a regular daily fast – which seems to miss the point of “intermittent”?)

6. NAD Neolithic Agents of Disease; Dr. Kurt Harris’s phrase for un-Paleo foods

7. WAPF The Weston A Price Foundation

8. MUFA/ PUFA Mono-Unsaturated Fat(ty Acids)/ Poly-Unsaturated Fatty Acids

9. CLA Conjugated Linoleic Acid; A beneficial MUFA

10. SFA Saturated Fat(ty Acids)

11. LCT/ MCT Long Chain Triglycerides/ Medium Chain Triglycerides

12. EVCO/ EVOO Extra Virgin Coconut Oil/ Extra Virgin Olive Oil

13. CLO Cod Liver Oil

14. HDL/ LDL High Density Lipoprotein/ Low Density Lipoprotein

15. CHO Carbohydrates (Carbon Hydrogen Oxygen)

16. LC/ VLC/ ZC Low Carb/ Very Low Carb/ Zero Carb

17. CF/ WOD Crossfit/ Work-out of the Day

18. HIIT/ HIT High Intensity (Interval) Training

19. PWO Post Work-out

20. VFF Vibram Five Fingers barefoot shoes

Even More Paleo Jargon: 15 Additional Acronyms and Terms Explained

As the Paleo world grows and evolves, so too does its language. Beyond the original 20 acronyms and abbreviations already listed, there are many more you may come across in forums, blogs, books and podcasts. Understanding these can help you better navigate conversations and avoid confusion. Here are 15 more commonly used Paleo, ancestral health, and low-carb lifestyle terms worth knowing.

21. AIP — Autoimmune Protocol

The AIP is a stricter version of the Paleo diet, developed to help those with autoimmune conditions. It eliminates common inflammatory foods like nightshades, eggs, nuts, and seeds, in addition to standard Paleo exclusions like grains, dairy and legumes. The aim is to calm the immune system and heal the gut, before gradually reintroducing foods to identify triggers.

22. LCHF — Low Carb High Fat

This acronym refers to a dietary approach that drastically reduces carbohydrates and replaces them with fat as the primary energy source. While similar to Paleo in many ways, LCHF often allows dairy and doesn’t always emphasise food quality or ancestral context. It’s commonly followed by those managing insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, or looking to lose body fat.

23. NSNG — No Sugar No Grains

Coined by fitness expert Vinnie Tortorich, NSNG is a simplified take on low-carb eating. By cutting out sugar and all forms of grains (even “whole” ones), it removes the most common sources of blood sugar disruption and inflammation in modern diets. It's often used as an entry point for people who find Paleo too overwhelming at first.

24. EMF — Eat More Fat

Seen frequently in low-carb and ketogenic communities, EMF encourages replacing carbohydrate energy with fats like avocado, coconut oil, nuts, fatty cuts of meat, and olives. It’s particularly relevant for those transitioning to fat adaptation or trying to stabilise hunger and energy throughout the day.

25. NK — Nutritional Ketosis

Nutritional ketosis is the state in which your body primarily uses ketones (produced from fat) for energy instead of glucose. It is typically achieved by eating a diet with fewer than 50 grams of carbohydrates per day. NK is commonly pursued for mental clarity, fat loss, epilepsy management, and endurance performance.

26. RO — Resistant Organics

A term sometimes used in farming and food sourcing circles, RO refers to crops and animal products raised without chemical fertilisers or antibiotics, and often in regenerative systems. Paleo enthusiasts interested in sustainability and nutrient density often prioritise RO foods.

27. GNG — Gluconeogenesis

This is the metabolic process by which your body converts protein or fat into glucose when dietary carbs are insufficient. Often misunderstood, GNG is essential and tightly regulated — it ensures you can still fuel essential functions like brain activity even on a low-carb or ketogenic diet.

28. FODMAP — Fermentable Oligo-, Di-, Mono-saccharides And Polyols

These are types of fermentable carbohydrates that can cause digestive distress in people with irritable bowel syndrome or gut dysbiosis. The FODMAP protocol eliminates high-FODMAP foods like onions, garlic, apples and some dairy to help identify triggers. While not a Paleo protocol, many people combine low-FODMAP with Paleo eating for gut healing.

29. BPA — Bisphenol-A

Not food itself, but BPA is a chemical found in many plastic containers and linings, especially in canned foods. It’s an endocrine disruptor, and avoiding it is common in clean-living circles. Look for BPA-free tins and store food in glass rather than plastic when following a Paleo lifestyle.

30. OMAD — One Meal A Day

A form of extended intermittent fasting where individuals consume all daily calories within a single meal, typically in a 1-hour window. It can be part of a ketogenic or Paleo approach and is sometimes used for weight loss, autophagy benefits or simply convenience.

31. HPO — High Protein Omnivore

This describes someone who emphasises a very high intake of animal protein in their diet. While not necessarily “Paleo,” it often overlaps in the desire for real, unprocessed, animal-based food. HPO followers may focus heavily on meat, organs, fish, and eggs.

32. TBH — Tallow, Bone Broth and Honey

A cheeky acronym sometimes used in ancestral health communities to refer to traditional healing foods. While honey is used sparingly in Paleo, tallow (rendered beef fat) and bone broth are staples due to their nutrient density and gut-supportive benefits.

33. RT3 — Reverse T3

A thyroid hormone sometimes measured in functional medicine to assess thyroid function. Elevated RT3 can indicate stress, inflammation, or poor conversion of T4 to the active T3 hormone. Paleo protocols focused on adrenal and thyroid healing often explore RT3 markers.

34. SAPs — Standard Australian Packets

A tongue-in-cheek term for the boxed, plastic-wrapped convenience foods that fill most supermarket shelves in Australia. In the Paleo world, SAPs are the foods most avoided — ultra-processed, shelf-stable, and devoid of real nutrition.

35. BBG — Barefoot Before Grass

This one’s more obscure but sometimes found in minimalist footwear circles. It’s used to describe those committed to barefoot or minimalist shoe living — even indoors — as a way to restore natural gait, posture, and foot strength, often alongside Paleo lifestyle practices.

Building Your Paleo Vocabulary

While the acronyms may seem overwhelming at first, they become second nature as you spend more time immersed in Paleo living. Many of them reflect key pillars of ancestral health: real food, quality movement, proper rest, and avoiding the chemical and dietary pitfalls of the modern world.

As the community continues to grow, so too will the language. If you're new, don’t be afraid to ask when something doesn’t make sense — the Paleo world thrives on sharing, learning, and helping others navigate the jargon on their journey to better health.

So, what’ve I missed off the list? Which Acronyms and Abbreviations keep cropping up in your reading?

Curing Cancer With Sugar?

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I’ve seen two examples of cancer charities fundraising by selling sweets, chocolates and cakes, just in the last three days. It makes me so cross – and makes me realise how far we've yet to go in terms of nutritional understanding.

From what I understand there seem to be significant links between cancer and sugar. Apparently cancer cells require far more glucose than normal cells to grow, and studies indicate depriving cells of glucose can be effective in killing cancerous cells. Restricting calories, such as through intermittent fasting, also appears to be effective in starving cancer cells. Sugar also appears to have a role to play in inflammation, oxidation and the cellular damage from which cancer originates. I've also been reading a lot about the hormone IGF 1, present in milk which appears to elevate hormone levels and may increase the risk of ovarian, prostate and testicular cancers.

So why then are charities trying to cure cancer encouraging people to consume more calories and to consume these calories through processed, dairy rich, sugar-laden products?

Whilst environmental factors clearly are a factor in many cancers, I believe by having a good nutritional base (i.e. a Paleo diet being rich in anti-inflammatory foods, with a good omega 3/ omega 6 ratio and no processed or toxin containing foods) and a good lifestyle, cancer is far less likely.

Another factor that seems prevalent in some cancers is chronic stress. Whilst in our ancestral history stress used to be severe, but short-lived (threat of attack for example), chronic, long-term stress is now common-place. Many examples of chronic stress seem to be in the workplace – exactly the places the cancer charities are using to sell these products! I’d also speculate that it’s stressed workers who are more likely to want the brief satisfaction of chocolates and sweets – exactly the people who shouldn't have them!

Am I missing something, or is there something seriously wrong about trying to cure cancer with sugar?

Understanding the Sugar and Cancer Connection

The irony of selling sugar to raise money for cancer research is hard to ignore. As more scientific evidence links sugar intake to cancer progression, it seems fundamentally contradictory to promote sugary treats as a means of supporting a cure. It not only sends a confusing message but may actually undermine public health in the long run. This paradox deserves greater attention, especially as nutritional literacy grows.

Glucose, a simple sugar, is the preferred fuel source for all cells in the body, including cancer cells. However, cancerous cells are metabolically different from healthy cells. They tend to rely far more heavily on glucose for their rapid growth and survival. This phenomenon is known as the Warburg effect, where cancer cells consume glucose at a much higher rate than normal cells, even in the presence of oxygen.

Does Sugar Feed Cancer?

It’s overly simplistic to say that sugar causes cancer, but there is growing evidence to suggest that high-sugar diets may contribute to its progression. Chronic consumption of sugar-rich foods can lead to obesity, insulin resistance, and systemic inflammation—all of which are recognised risk factors for cancer. Elevated blood glucose and insulin levels may also fuel the growth of existing tumours, making dietary sugar a potential accelerant in cancer progression.

Some researchers believe that insulin and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), both elevated by high-sugar diets, can promote cell proliferation and suppress apoptosis (cell death), enabling cancerous cells to survive and multiply unchecked. This is one reason low-sugar and low-carbohydrate dietary protocols are now being studied as potential adjunct therapies for cancer patients.

The Paleo Diet as a Cancer-Preventative Lifestyle

While no diet can guarantee immunity from cancer, the Paleo approach is rich in nutrients that may support the body in preventing chronic disease. It eliminates processed sugars, grains, and dairy—three common dietary elements linked to systemic inflammation and insulin resistance. By focusing on whole, unprocessed foods with a low glycaemic load, the Paleo diet helps to regulate blood sugar levels and may reduce the internal environment that allows cancer cells to thrive.

Vegetables: Packed with fibre, antioxidants, and phytonutrients that help protect cells from oxidative damage.
Healthy fats: Sourced from avocados, nuts, seeds, and wild-caught fish, these fats support hormone balance and reduce inflammation.
High-quality proteins: Grass-fed meats and pasture-raised poultry are rich in essential amino acids and free from added hormones or antibiotics.
Low in sugar: With no refined sugar and minimal natural sweeteners, the Paleo diet keeps blood glucose levels stable.

Additionally, the anti-inflammatory nature of the Paleo diet may help to reduce the chronic inflammation thought to be a root cause of many cancers. Omega-3-rich foods like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds are known to help balance pro-inflammatory omega-6 fats often consumed in excess in modern diets.

Fasting, Ketosis, and Cancer Metabolism

Emerging research is also exploring how intermittent fasting and ketogenic diets may play a role in cancer prevention or support. When glucose availability is reduced—such as during fasting or carbohydrate restriction—the body begins producing ketones from fat. Unlike normal cells, many cancer cells are metabolically inflexible and cannot efficiently use ketones as fuel, which may inhibit their growth.

Combining a Paleo approach with elements of intermittent fasting may therefore offer a dual benefit: improved metabolic health and a less hospitable environment for cancer cells.

Why Are Cancer Charities Promoting Sugar?

The short answer may be: tradition, convenience, and fundraising effectiveness. Bake sales and chocolate drives are familiar, easy to organise, and tend to raise money quickly. But they also perpetuate the normalisation of sugary foods, particularly in settings like offices and schools—where stress and poor eating habits often collide.

By encouraging sugary indulgence in the name of charity, well-intentioned organisations may be sending the wrong message. It undermines public health education and could even contribute to the same diseases they seek to cure. The disconnect between medical science and fundraising methods is stark and long overdue for reform.

What Should Fundraising Look Like Instead?

Imagine a world where cancer charities promoted whole food lunches, sugar-free smoothie stalls, or mindfulness and stress-reduction workshops instead of cupcakes and lolly bags. These healthier alternatives may not be as instantly gratifying, but they offer far more meaningful alignment with the long-term goal: reducing the incidence and severity of cancer.

Even activities like charity walks, yoga sessions, or outdoor group fitness classes could shift the fundraising culture towards health-supportive experiences that educate and uplift, rather than fuel the problem. There’s no reason we can’t fund the cure while also promoting the prevention.

The Role of Chronic Stress in Cancer Development

It’s worth remembering that sugar isn’t the only modern culprit. Chronic stress is another significant contributor to immune dysfunction and inflammation. Cortisol, the body’s stress hormone, can disrupt hormonal balance and suppress immune surveillance—both of which are critical in catching and destroying early cancer cells.

And where does stress often live? In the workplace. The same places where chocolates are sold at desks in support of a cure are often environments marked by high cortisol, poor sleep, and nutritional shortcuts. Supporting wellness in these environments requires more than a morning tea fundraiser—it demands a shift in values.

A More Integrated Approach to Cancer Awareness

In an era where lifestyle diseases are on the rise, it makes sense for cancer awareness efforts to adopt a more integrative perspective. This includes promoting clean eating, emotional resilience, physical activity, environmental toxin reduction, and adequate sleep. A Paleo-inspired lifestyle naturally addresses many of these pillars by removing processed food, reintroducing natural movement, and encouraging time spent outdoors and in rest.

Of course, no one is suggesting that dietary change alone is a magic cure. Cancer is complex and multifactorial. But acknowledging that lifestyle plays a major role in prevention and progression is vital—and that message needs to be echoed not only in scientific literature but in how we educate, fundraise, and support one another.

Rethinking the Message We Send

We can’t claim to be serious about curing cancer while simultaneously promoting behaviours that increase the risk of developing it. Education, community leadership, and conscious consumer choices must go hand in hand. Promoting a lifestyle that lowers inflammation, regulates blood sugar, and reduces exposure to toxins should be as high a priority as any research grant.

The conversation around cancer needs to evolve—and that starts with small actions, like questioning why sugar remains central to so many awareness campaigns. If we’re truly aiming for prevention and cure, it’s time to align our actions with our goals.

What do you think about sugar-based fundraising for cancer? Have you seen more holistic or health-positive initiatives in your community? Let us know in the comments below—every conversation brings us closer to a better solution.

Paleo comes to Australia paleo event conference weekend seminar talk sydney-min

Paleo Comes to Australia – Are You In?

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Those lucky Americans seem to have some sort of Paleo/ Primal/ Low Carb event in the United States almost every month. The Ancestral Health Symposium, the Paleo FX, PrimalCon and even a Low Carb Cruise. What about us down here in Australia and New Zealand?

If you were feeling left out, you needn't any more – Paleo is coming to Australia, soon!

I can’t wait to let you in on this! I'm going to share the details (and a special discount code) with those who've signed up to my newsletter, before I announce the details here…

I wish I could say more, but all will soon be revealed!

Are you in?

Why Paleo Events Matter (Especially Down Under)

Paleo is so much more than a dietary choice – it’s a lifestyle shift that redefines how we move, rest, eat, and connect. But as exciting as the world of ancestral health is, it can also be incredibly isolating, especially in regions like Australia and New Zealand where in-person communities are few and far between.

That’s one of the reasons events like PrimalCon, Paleo f(x), and the Ancestral Health Symposium have become such huge highlights overseas. These aren’t just expos or lecture series – they’re immersive weekends where like-minded people come together to learn, eat, train, share, and connect in real life. Until now, we’ve largely watched them unfold from afar.

So it’s about time something changed – and it is.

What a Paleo Weekend Should Be

When I first began dreaming up a local Paleo weekend, I thought about what made the US events so powerful. The key, I realised, was the feeling of belonging. To sit down at a meal where you don’t have to explain why you’re avoiding grains. To do a barefoot sprint session without weird looks. To geek out about cold plunges or offal without anyone batting an eye.

My vision was clear: it had to be a weekend that welcomed everyone from the curious beginner to the full-blown barefoot liver-loving enthusiast. A weekend of hands-on learning, deep discussions, delicious Paleo-friendly food, and movement sessions that actually felt natural.

The Core Pillars of Our Aussie Paleo Event

So without giving too much away (yet!), here’s a peek into the kind of experience I’ve been curating behind the scenes – and why this event is designed to be so much more than just another health conference.

1. Nutrition Without Dogma

Whether you're into nose-to-tail eating, wild fermentation, or just trying to understand the basics of going grain-free, the food element of the weekend is going to be front and centre. But instead of rigid rules or one-size-fits-all advice, expect real talk from people who’ve lived and breathed Paleo for years.

Think live cooking demos, foraging tips, and panels on everything from dealing with unsupportive family to balancing modern work life with ancestral eating patterns. We’ll talk about food as nourishment, not fear – and celebrate the joy of eating in community.

2. Move Like a Human

One of the most exciting aspects will be the focus on movement – not gym workouts, but truly functional human movement. Inspired by modalities like MovNat and barefoot training, sessions will include things like:

Play-based mobility and animal flow
Natural movement hikes
Posture and barefoot running technique
Workshops on how to integrate movement into your work day

Because movement shouldn’t be punishment – it should feel like coming home to your body.

3. Connection and Community

Let’s face it – being the “weird one” who brings bone broth to work or skips birthday cake can get a little lonely. That’s why creating space for genuine connection is so crucial.

Expect group meals, fireside chats, breakout groups, and Q&A panels where you can share your wins and struggles – and hear how others are navigating the same path. This is the chance to build your tribe.

What to Expect (Without Spoiling the Surprise!)

Still can’t share everything (trust me, I want to!), but I can tell you this: the weekend is designed to be immersive. You’ll come away feeling informed, inspired, nourished, and more connected – not just to the community, but to your own health journey.

The event is not just for the ultra-disciplined or those with six-pack abs. It’s for real people – parents, professionals, students, athletes, and anyone who’s ever wondered if there’s a more natural, sustainable way to live.

There will be:

Guest speakers from across Australia’s Paleo and ancestral health scene
Delicious, fully Paleo meals and snacks catered for all attendees
Sunrise movement sessions, barefoot beach walks, and evening bonfires
Workshops on everything from gut health to stress regulation to biohacking on a budget
A few secret surprises I promise you’ll love

Why Now Is the Perfect Time

After the last few years, I think we’re all more aware than ever of the importance of community and health. Many of us have realised just how fragile our wellbeing can be when modern life keeps us chronically stressed, under-nourished, and disconnected.

This event is my way of pushing back against that – of saying it’s time to reclaim our health, on our terms. It’s time to get off the screens and back into nature. Time to eat together, laugh together, and learn from one another.

Whether you’re brand new to Paleo or have been on this path for a decade, there will be something here for you.

A Taste of What People Are Saying

Here’s what others have said when asked what they’d love to see at a Paleo weekend event:

“I’d love a chance to learn to cook Paleo meals that don’t take an hour of prep and cost $50 in ingredients.”
– Rachel, Sydney

“I’ve been Paleo for years but my partner isn’t. I'd love a session on how to live with someone who eats totally differently!”
– Mike, Brisbane

“Please include tips for busy people – like how to pack Paleo lunches or travel without falling off the wagon.”
– Lara, Melbourne

“I’m hoping for some real community. Online groups are great, but I want to meet people in person who ‘get it’.”
– Sam, Perth

Sound like something you’d love too?

Sign Up to Be First in the Know

I’ll be sharing all the juicy details – the dates, the location, the speakers, the ticket info – with my newsletter subscribers first. There’ll even be a cheeky early bird discount, but it’ll be limited to those on the email list.

So if you're even thinking about coming, sign up now. This is going to be the kind of weekend you remember years later – not because of a lecture or a PowerPoint, but because of the people you met, the food you ate, and the way you felt when it was all over.

Join the Movement

Australia has a passionate, growing Paleo community – and now’s the time for us to gather, celebrate, learn, and evolve together. No matter where you are on your health journey, I hope you’ll consider joining me for this very special weekend.

So…

Are you in?

👉 Sign up to the newsletter now to be the first to know when we drop the details.

Magnesium

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I spend a lot of time reading about various supplements, trying to work out what I should or shouldn't take. I really don’t like the idea of taking supplements – it’s not exactly a Paleo activity we've evolved to do! However, I know it is a lot harder not to get all of the micro nutrients we need today than ever before. Mineral content in soils is severely depleted due to modern farming methods, meaning the produce that grows in that land and animals grazing on the land are also far lighter on mineral content. I've been especially interested in Magnesium.

I'm fairly sold on taking Vitamin D3 and fish oil, but after reading “The Magnesium Miracle” and researching the mineral, I recently decided to buy some Magnesium Citrate.

I had a lot of blood work done recently and whilst I don’t appear to have a Magnesium deficiency my magnesium mmol/L levels look to be lower than desirable. Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in so many of the biochemical processes in the body, it is claimed to help with sleep, stress and help regulate blood sugar levels. It's role in insulin sensitivity is especially interesting to me, with my current weight loss objective.

There are so many different types of magnesium supplements – I found magnesium oxide, magnesium hydroxide, magnesium carbonate, magnesium citrate, magnesium lactate, magnesium chloride, and magnesium sulfate! I decided to try Magnesium Citrate as apparently it has a better bio availability, which means it should be better absorbed. I believe this is the same form as found in the ‘Natural Calm” brand.

A lot of people get magnesium through skin absorption, either by bathing in Epsom Salts or apply magnesium oil – I might try this route in the future, but for now, I'll see how I fair with the supplement. There are food sources of magnesium, such as green vegetables, bone broths, almonds and fish – but to achieve reasonable levels I'd have to eat such high amounts from the food source, that I don't think it would be realistic at the moment.

Why Modern Lifestyles Deplete Magnesium

Even when we try to eat a clean, nutrient-rich Paleo diet, magnesium depletion can still be a concern. Chronic stress, intense exercise, high caffeine intake, and poor sleep all contribute to the body using up more magnesium than usual. Add to this the consumption of sugar, alcohol, and medications like antibiotics or diuretics, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for deficiency. Unfortunately, these lifestyle factors are all too common in today’s world — even among health-conscious individuals.

Magnesium is used in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, playing a crucial role in energy production, nerve function, muscle relaxation, and maintaining healthy blood pressure. When magnesium is lacking, symptoms can include fatigue, anxiety, headaches, muscle cramps, insomnia, and even heart palpitations. What’s alarming is that these symptoms are often written off as “normal” parts of modern life — rather than potential signs of deficiency.

How to Spot Subtle Signs of Magnesium Deficiency

Blood tests aren’t always the best way to assess magnesium levels, since only about 1% of the body’s magnesium is found in the blood. Many people with “normal” lab results may still be functionally deficient. Subclinical symptoms can give better clues:

Frequent eye twitches or facial muscle spasms
Difficulty getting to sleep or staying asleep
Tension headaches or migraines
Restless legs at night
Unexplained anxiety or feelings of overwhelm
Muscle soreness or tightness, even after gentle exercise

If you’ve been struggling with any of these, it’s worth exploring whether magnesium might help. As always, it’s important to discuss this with your practitioner — especially if you have any medical conditions or take prescription medications.

Comparing Magnesium Supplement Types

Not all magnesium supplements are created equal. Some forms are poorly absorbed or are more likely to cause digestive upset. Here’s a quick breakdown of some of the more common types:

Magnesium Citrate: Highly bioavailable and commonly used for general supplementation. Can have a mild laxative effect at higher doses.
Magnesium Glycinate: Bound to glycine, a calming amino acid. Great for sleep, anxiety, and those with sensitive stomachs.
Magnesium Malate: Often recommended for muscle pain and fatigue, as malic acid supports energy production.
Magnesium Threonate: A newer form that may cross the blood-brain barrier more effectively — good for cognitive function.
Magnesium Oxide: Common but poorly absorbed. Typically found in cheaper supplements and best avoided for therapeutic use.

If you’re new to magnesium, starting with magnesium citrate or glycinate is a smart and gentle introduction. Be aware that dosages vary widely, and more is not always better. Some people thrive on just 200–300mg a day, while others benefit from closer to 500mg — depending on lifestyle and stress load.

Timing and Dosage Tips

Magnesium is best taken in the evening, as it naturally supports relaxation and can enhance sleep quality. Taking it with food can help improve absorption and reduce any risk of digestive discomfort. If you notice a laxative effect, you may be taking too much at once — try splitting your dose throughout the day or switching to a gentler form like glycinate.

Topical magnesium (magnesium oil or Epsom salt baths) is a great option if you don’t tolerate oral supplements well. Transdermal absorption bypasses the digestive system, making it ideal for those with sensitive stomachs or malabsorption issues. Magnesium chloride is the preferred type for topical application due to its high absorbability and minimal irritation.

Magnesium and Sleep

Many people report the most noticeable benefits of magnesium in the form of better, deeper sleep. It helps regulate melatonin and the parasympathetic nervous system — the “rest and digest” side of our autonomic system. If you struggle to fall asleep or wake up feeling unrested, magnesium may be a helpful part of your evening routine. Combine it with a screen-free wind-down hour and a herbal tea like chamomile or passionflower for maximum effect.

How Magnesium Supports a Paleo Lifestyle

For those of us following a Paleo approach, magnesium is one of the few nutrients that may still need a helping hand. While a whole food diet removes many of the processed culprits that deplete magnesium, soil quality today just isn’t what it was a few generations ago. Even with plenty of leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and bone broths, you may not be getting the levels your body needs to thrive — especially if you’re physically active or juggling a high-stress lifestyle.

Magnesium also supports insulin sensitivity, making it especially helpful for those on a fat loss journey or anyone managing blood sugar issues. By assisting glucose uptake into cells and helping regulate insulin, it plays a role in energy balance and metabolic health. It also complements other Paleo-focused nutrients like vitamin D3 and omega-3 fats, amplifying their effects.

Final Thoughts

While supplementing should never replace a nutrient-dense diet, magnesium is one of the few additions that many people can genuinely benefit from. Whether you’re after better sleep, less stress, improved energy, or muscle recovery, it’s worth experimenting with a high-quality magnesium supplement — or topical form — and observing how your body responds.

As always, the Paleo philosophy is about tuning in to your body, supporting it naturally, and using what works best for your unique needs. If magnesium helps you sleep more deeply, feel more grounded, and recover more quickly, then it’s a valuable part of your modern ancestral toolkit.

Do you supplement with Magnesium? Interested to hear what benefits – or even downsides you've experienced with Magnesium supplementation!

The Unspoken Truth about the Paleo Diet & Weight Loss

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The widely reported Paleo message is that if you follow a strict Paleo diet, you will effortlessly lose weight. I'm reading more and more comments on Paleo forums from disappointed people, reporting that they have not lost weight – and in some cases have even put on weight. This was my experience too, until I finally understood the missing piece to the Paleo weight loss puzzle.

When I initially changed my diet, at that time to more of a Primal diet, I very quickly lost a lot of weight and several dress sizes, effortlessly. Looking back, I think a large part of this was due to replacing high calorie, refined foods, with more satiating whole (Paleo) foods. However, without apparent reason the weight loss reached a plateau after a few months. I remained strictly Paleo, I reduced my fruit intake and stopped eating nuts. I continued to work-out. Yet my weight would not budge; very frustrating.

Over Christmas I began to think more and more about portion sizes – the one variable I had overlooked before. Most of the key Paleo bloggers and experts did not come to Paleo overweight. They were often unhealthy and unwell, but rarely overweight. Whilst not expressly stated, the “Paleo message” that could be construed is that provided you eat the right things (i.e. Paleo foods), you can eat as much as you like (perhaps even “the more you eat, the more beneficial the effects become”). From what I've read, it appears that when you are overweight the hormones and signalling in your body become distorted – meaning that what works for someone of a “normal” weight, will not work in the same way for someone who is overweight. At least, not until they restore the balance and signalling. I've been particularly interested in reading Dr Jack Kruses Leptin Reset ideas in this regard.

For the last six weeks I've been challenging and significantly reducing my portions. I've not been weighing and counting calories, nor have I changed what I eat. I've simply been eating a lot less. For example, where I’d have had three serving spoons of soup or bean'-less chilli, I now have two – and I don’t have seconds. Where I’d have had three rashers of bacon and two eggs, I now have two rashers of bacon and one egg. When I Intermittently Fast, I’m careful not to expand the size of my first post-fast meal to compensate.

I've lost 7kg in the last six weeks (15 pounds) and finally smashed through that plateau. I think this is proof enough that a Paleo diet – with reduced portion sizes, is the essential combination for weight loss.

I don’t know what happens at the right body weight, but I am expecting to find (when I get there) that I will be able to eat as much Paleo food as I like, with no adverse effect on my weight or body composition. In the meantime, it’s clear that reducing portion sizes is the right approach.

Essentially, I think the Paleo diet needs are very different for an athletic individual, compared to an overweight individual.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on this – have you had similar experiences? Do you agree that portion control is essential for weight loss, on a Paleo diet?

Paleo meme funny what people think when I tell them I eat paleo diet-min

6 Perspectives of Paleo

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I couldn't resist jumping on the bandwagon & creating what I think are the 6 perspectives of Paleo.

The 6 Perspectives of Paleo – Why Everyone Thinks You're Doing It Wrong

One of the more entertaining aspects of adopting a Paleo lifestyle is discovering just how wildly misunderstood it is. As soon as you tell someone you’re “doing Paleo,” it’s like a Rorschach test — everyone projects something completely different onto you.

I created the meme above to highlight the six most common perspectives people seem to have when they hear the word “Paleo.” It's funny because, well, it's painfully accurate. Let’s break it down, shall we?

1. How My Friends Think I Eat: Two Sad Lettuce Leaves on a Plate

To some of your mates, “Paleo” is just the trendy diet where you nibble on leaves and pretend to enjoy it. You must be starving, surely? When they see you pass on the burger bun or opt for sparkling water instead of a beer, they imagine your entire life has become a joyless parade of rabbit food.

This perception comes from the conflation of “healthy eating” with restriction — and from a culture that’s been told for decades that fat is bad and salads are the only path to thinness. What they miss is that Paleo meals are often hearty, satisfying, and rich in flavour and nutrients.

2. How My Family Think I Eat: The Government Food Pyramid Reimagined

Family members, especially older generations, often visualise Paleo through the lens of conventional dietary guidelines. They picture a colourful plate with grains, fruit juice, and maybe a dollop of low-fat yoghurt. If you try explaining that grains are out and full-fat is in, you might be met with raised eyebrows and concerned questions about cholesterol.

Many families still regard the food pyramid or MyPlate model as gospel. When you disrupt that with your pasture-raised eggs, organ meats, and coconut oil, it challenges long-held beliefs — and that can be confronting.

3. How Society Thinks I Eat: Like a Caveman, Possibly with a Club

To the general public, “Paleo” often gets written off as some primal cosplay where you swing a club and gnaw on raw meat while wearing a loincloth. There’s a strange tendency to take the term literally and imagine Paleo people living like our ancient ancestors in every sense — never mind the advances in cooking, nutrition, and food sourcing.

This view often stems from misunderstanding. Paleo isn’t about mimicking cavemen exactly — it’s about eating real, whole foods our bodies evolved to thrive on, while ditching modern, industrialised food products. It’s not about “eating like a caveman,” it’s about eating in a way that aligns with human biology.

4. How the Media Think I Eat: Meat, Meat and More Meat

Mainstream media loves extremes, and when it comes to Paleo, the meat obsession angle makes headlines. Paleo gets lumped in with keto or carnivore, and suddenly it’s all about steak, bacon, and giant hunks of beef. Balanced meals full of vegetables, herbs, fermented foods, and nourishing fats don’t make for good clickbait.

Sure, Paleo does encourage meat — but it’s about quality over quantity. We’re talking grass-fed, free-range, ethically sourced meat as part of a diverse, colourful plate that also includes vegetables, healthy fats, herbs, and bone broth. Media portrayals rarely show that side of the story.

5. How I Think I Eat: Instagram-Worthy Paleo Perfection

Then there’s your own perception. You imagine yourself whipping up stunning rainbow salads, grilled meats with vibrant herbs, and coconut-milk panna cotta topped with fresh berries. You plan to meal prep every Sunday, spiralise zucchini, ferment your own kraut, and always have bone broth on the go.

You picture Paleo perfection. But…

6. How I Actually Eat: Bacon. A Lot of Bacon.

Reality check. Some days it’s just bacon. Or leftover steak from dinner. Or a bunch of nuts and an emergency boiled egg. Life gets in the way of perfection, and that’s fine.

The beauty of the Paleo lifestyle is that it’s flexible and forgiving. It’s not about eating picture-perfect meals or living up to some Instagram ideal — it’s about making better choices, one meal at a time.

So, What Is Paleo Really About?

If you strip away the memes, misunderstandings, and media hype, Paleo is incredibly simple:

Eat real food: meat, seafood, eggs, vegetables, fruit, nuts, seeds, herbs, spices, and natural fats.
Avoid processed foods, grains, industrial seed oils, refined sugar, dairy (unless tolerated), and legumes.
Sleep well, move naturally, get outside, manage stress, and live intentionally.

In short, it’s a lifestyle that encourages health through ancestral principles, not a rigid list of rules.

Why This Matters — Especially in Australia

In Australia, where supermarket aisles are stacked with ultra-processed convenience foods and healthy eating still revolves around Weet-Bix and skim milk, Paleo challenges the norm. It asks us to question the way we’ve always done things — and to pay closer attention to how food affects our health.

From autoimmune conditions to metabolic syndrome and food intolerances, many Australians are discovering that simply removing modern foods and returning to a more natural diet can have a dramatic impact on how they feel, sleep, think, and move.

Let’s Redefine What Healthy Looks Like

Maybe you don’t eat like a caveman. Maybe you’ve got bacon in your fridge and fermented carrots on the bench. Maybe you fast sometimes. Maybe you don’t. Maybe you have days where your Paleo “perfect” is a bit more relaxed.

That’s ok.

Paleo is a journey — one that’s personal, flexible, and ultimately about living better. If you're curious, the best way to understand it is not by googling another list of forbidden foods — but by trying it for 30 days, listening to your body, and seeing how you feel.

Over to You

How do people respond when you say you eat Paleo? Do you get confused stares, concerned lectures, or enthusiastic curiosity? Have you noticed these same six reactions in your own life?

Drop your story in the comments — or tag a fellow Paleo friend who gets it.

Let’s keep the conversation going and continue busting myths about what Paleo really is — and what it isn’t.

7 Habits of Highly Healthy People

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Since I've taken such a keen interest in my health over the last couple of years, and particularly since I've adopted a Paleo lifestyle I've come to be surrounded by more and more healthy people. It doesn't take long to realise that these people have a lot in common. I've been trying to understand exactly what they do differently, so that I can try to adopt these habits myself.

1. View food as nutrition and fuel.

Healthy people see food purely as a means of providing their bodies with the fuel and nutrients they need – not for pleasure and enjoyment. They are never obsessed with where their next meal is coming from and with constant thoughts of their favourite type of junk food.

2. Prioritise healthy lifestyle above all other distractions

Healthy people have their health as their number one priority. This makes it easy for them to decline social invitations that they know will mean poor nutrition, poor sleep and a hard training session the next day. They constantly keep their focus on their health, instead of being easily tempted by distractions that go against these aims.

3. Consistently get adequate sleep & get up early

I’m realising more and more how crucial sleep is to leading a healthy lifestyle. Healthy people almost always seem to have a routine of getting up early and going to bed early (because they know they can’t burn the candle at both ends). Going to bed earlier means being more organised with evening meals and of course, not staying out all night on social events. Consistently having proper rest allows the body to recover and recharge ready for the next day. Sleep also seems to have crucial roles in how the body stores fat as well as willpower and concentration.

4. Surround themselves with healthy people.

Healthy people tend to have healthy friends. Having a circle of healthy friends means meals out and social events will be based around healthy food and activities. A group of friends with a similar outlook will also serve to inspire and motivate.

5. Seamlessly integrate fitness into their daily routines

Fit people don’t have to rearrange their day and cancel arrangements to squeeze some exercise into their day. They have established routines that centre around fitness. For example, getting up early every morning to get some training in before work or walking to work. They will routinely take the stairs instead of the lift – and perhaps even work at a standing desk!

6. Results not excuses

Successful, healthy people don’t make excuses. It might be raining, they might be tired, they might have an important meeting, or a friend visiting. It makes no difference. They will still eat well and exercise. They won’t allow these factors to impact their life. The motivation to stay fit and healthy is far more significant to them than the temptation to give into any excuses.

7. Healthy self image

Crucially, healthy people seem to visualise themselves as just that, fit and healthy. Those who are not yet there, may instead visualise themselves as unfit, unhealthy and overweight – all negative connotations that can only hinder their efforts.

Do you agree with my observations? Have you noticed any other traits healthy people seem to have in common?

How to Cultivate Healthy Habits That Actually Stick

Adopting these seven habits isn’t about being perfect — it’s about creating a lifestyle where good health becomes your default. For many people transitioning into a Paleo lifestyle, it starts with the food. But over time, you realise that true health is about so much more than just what’s on your plate.

If you’re trying to become one of those “highly healthy” people yourself, here are a few practical steps to help make those habits sustainable:

Start With One Habit at a Time

It’s tempting to overhaul everything all at once — but real change tends to happen when you focus on one habit, master it, then move on to the next. For example, begin by fixing your sleep. Once you’re consistently getting enough rest, you’ll have more energy for morning workouts, meal prep, and mental focus.

Build Systems, Not Willpower

Highly healthy people don’t rely on motivation every single day — they build routines and systems that make healthy choices automatic. That might mean prepping all your meals on a Sunday, keeping workout gear by the door, or going to bed at the same time each night without exception. Systems reduce decision fatigue and help make consistency effortless.

Design Your Environment for Success

If you want to eat well, make sure your pantry and fridge are stocked with nutrient-dense foods — and nothing else. Want to walk more? Make sure your shoes are comfy and your schedule allows for movement. The more your environment supports your goals, the less friction you’ll encounter.

Focus on Progress, Not Perfection

Healthy people aren’t perfect — they just recover quickly when they slip. One bad meal doesn’t turn into a week off track. One skipped workout doesn’t become a lost month. Consistency is what matters, and the sooner you get back into your rhythm, the better your long-term results.

Connect With Like-Minded People

Finding others on a similar path — whether through a local Paleo group, a CrossFit gym, or even online — can make a huge difference. Community offers support, accountability, and shared inspiration. And as the old saying goes, you become the average of the five people you spend the most time with.

Becoming One of the “Highly Healthy” Is Within Reach

You don’t have to be born with superhuman discipline to create a fit, vibrant, and healthy life. You just need the right habits — built gradually, with intention and patience.

Whether you’re brand new to Paleo or have been living this way for years, what matters is your consistency and mindset. The habits listed above are not just for elite athletes or wellness influencers — they’re achievable for everyday people who are ready to take ownership of their health.

So, which of the seven habits are you already doing? Which one are you going to tackle next? Let me know in the comments — and share your own personal strategies or healthy routines that help you thrive.

Let’s build better health together, one habit at a time.

Weston A Price Foundation Conference New Zealand Australia Events Sally Fallon auckland sydney-min

Weston A. Price NZ Tour: Speaker Line-Up & What’s New

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Have you booked your tickets to see Sally Fallon Morell and Geoffrey Morell yet? They’re touring New Zealand with the Weston A Price Foundation talking about “the Key to Vibrant Health” and tickets are on sale now.

Sally Fallon Morell, founding president of the WAPF is going to be talking about Dr Weston A Price, the health benefits of saturated animal fats, raw milk, the dangers of modern soy foods, the value of bone stock and lacto-fermented foods. Geoffrey Morell will be talking about “healing for the millions”.

There are lots of dates and venues to choose from:

25th March 2012, Invercargill
27th March 2012, Christchurch
29th March 2012, Wellington
1st April 2012, Auckland
2nd April 2012, Havelock North
3rd April 2012, Hastings
4th April 2012, Hamilton

I've booked my ticket for Auckland, see you there?

Who Was Weston A. Price – And Why Does He Matter?

Dr Weston A. Price was a pioneering dentist and researcher from the early 20th century who travelled the world studying the diets of traditional cultures. What he found was remarkable – people eating nutrient-dense, traditional diets had excellent teeth, strong bone structure, vibrant health, and far lower rates of chronic illness than those consuming a modern, industrialised diet. His work formed the foundation of what would later become the Weston A. Price Foundation (WAPF), and remains deeply influential to this day, especially within the Paleo and ancestral health communities.

Price’s research was published in his groundbreaking book, Nutrition and Physical Degeneration, which remains a must-read for anyone interested in the deep connection between traditional foods and long-term health. The Weston A Price NZ Tour is not just a series of lectures—it’s a modern-day continuation of that mission: educating and inspiring people to reclaim their health through nutrient-dense, whole foods and traditional preparation methods.

Why the Weston A Price NZ Tour Is So Important

Events like the Weston A Price NZ Tour offer a rare opportunity to hear from experts who challenge the mainstream narrative on nutrition. While conventional dietary advice often focuses on low-fat, plant-based recommendations, WAPF offers a different message: that animal fats, properly prepared whole foods, and traditional diets are not only safe, but vital to vibrant health.

The tour delivers this message in a clear, science-backed, and engaging way – perfect for anyone interested in Paleo, Primal, ancestral eating, or simply taking a more natural approach to their wellbeing. And it’s not just about what’s on your plate – it’s also about how that food is sourced, cooked, and understood.

Meet the Speakers: Sally Fallon Morell and Geoffrey Morell

Sally Fallon Morell is the founding president of the Weston A. Price Foundation and author of the bestselling book Nourishing Traditions. She’s known for her passionate defence of saturated fats, bone broth, raw milk, and fermented foods – all of which were common elements in the diets studied by Dr Price. Sally is a compelling speaker, weaving together history, science, and humour in a way that leaves you both informed and inspired.

Geoffrey Morell, her husband, is a practitioner of a form of energy healing known as the Morell Technique. His talk, “Healing for the Millions,” focuses on natural health techniques that support the body’s innate ability to heal. His sessions often include live demonstrations and stories from his decades of experience helping people regain their health using traditional and intuitive methods.

Topics Covered on the Weston A Price NZ Tour

This isn’t your average nutrition lecture series. Expect to hear in-depth discussion and practical advice on topics like:

The dangers of soy – especially genetically modified, processed soy products that are often pushed as health foods
Why raw milk matters – and how it compares nutritionally to pasteurised, homogenised dairy products
Bone broth benefits – including immune support, joint health, gut healing, and more
Fermentation and gut health – the ancestral way to preserve food and support your microbiome
Animal fats and heart health – debunking the myth that saturated fats are bad for you
Traditional vs modern diets – what we’ve lost and how to reclaim it

It’s rare to find such a well-rounded discussion of these topics in one place, let alone with the opportunity to ask questions directly to two of the most prominent voices in ancestral nutrition.

Weston A Price in New Zealand: Local Momentum

New Zealand, with its rich agricultural heritage and strong community values, is the perfect place to explore traditional food wisdom. From pasture-raised lamb to fresh dairy and a deep connection with the land, Kiwis have access to some of the most nutrient-dense foods in the world. Yet, like everywhere else, industrialised food has crept in and displaced many traditional habits. That’s why the Weston A Price NZ Tour feels so timely – it’s a reminder of what’s possible when we reconnect with real food and ancestral ways of living.

These talks are more than just educational – they’re a rallying point for communities across New Zealand who want to eat well, feel good, and make informed choices about their health. Expect to meet farmers, foodies, parents, naturopaths, and curious newcomers. There’s something incredibly powerful about gathering together around a shared vision for a healthier future.

What to Expect at the Event

If you’ve never been to a WAPF talk before, here’s a sneak peek at what to expect:

Practical advice on how to eat and live in harmony with your biology
Q&A sessions that let you dive deeper into specific topics
Networking opportunities with like-minded people in your community
Books and resources available for purchase
Local food vendors and producers showcasing traditional foods

These are not dry academic lectures – they’re rich, engaging, and often life-changing. If you’ve been unsure about raw dairy, hesitant to start fermenting, or looking for a more nourishing approach to fats – this is the place to get clear, evidence-based answers.

Traditional Nutrition and the Paleo Connection

There’s a lot of overlap between Weston A Price principles and the Paleo diet. Both value nutrient density, avoidance of processed foods, and a return to traditional preparation techniques. Where Paleo tends to cut out all grains and dairy, WAPF supports properly prepared whole grains (soaked or fermented) and raw dairy – provided they’re high-quality and traditionally sourced.

If you’re Paleo but open to experimentation, or if you’ve found full-on Paleo too restrictive, the Weston A Price approach may offer a gentler path with equally robust health benefits. Many people find that incorporating WAPF principles into a Paleo lifestyle gives them the best of both worlds: clarity and simplicity around food choices, but with more flexibility and cultural richness.

Tips to Make the Most of the Weston A Price NZ Tour

Here are a few quick tips to get the most out of the tour:

Bring a notebook – you’ll want to remember specific tips, names of books, and references to follow up on later.
Arrive early – seating can be limited, and you’ll want a good view of the speakers and the stage.
Talk to people – strike up a conversation during breaks. You might meet a new friend, a local farmer, or someone who makes amazing kombucha.
Bring questions – the Q&A sessions are often the most informative part of the event.
Explore resources – there will likely be books, brochures, and maybe even locally made traditional foods available for sale.

Can’t Make It? Here’s How to Learn More

If you missed the Weston A Price NZ Tour, don’t worry – you can still explore these ideas in your own time. Here are some ways to dive deeper:

Read Nourishing Traditions by Sally Fallon Morell
Watch Sally’s presentations on YouTube – many of her keynotes are available online
Join your local WAPF chapter or online communities
Start making bone broth, fermenting vegetables, or sourcing raw dairy from a trusted farmer
Read Nutrition and Physical Degeneration by Dr Weston A. Price – a classic that holds up today

Why This Tour Still Matters Today

It’s been over a decade since this particular Weston A Price NZ Tour happened, but the message is more relevant than ever. In a world increasingly dominated by ultra-processed foods, synthetic additives, and industrialised farming, people are hungry for truth, simplicity, and real nourishment.

Events like these help remind us that vibrant health doesn’t come from the latest supplement or fad diet – it comes from going back to basics: traditional foods, eaten in community, prepared with care. Whether you attended one of the original events or are just discovering this for the first time, the principles of the Weston A Price Foundation continue to offer powerful, timeless wisdom.

Were you at the Auckland talk too? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

Ido Portal Movement Culture event conference classes australia sydney

Ido Portal – Paleo Fitness

With MovNat coming to Australia in March – and founder Erwan Le Corre teaching at PrimalCon in April – it really is the year of natural movement. Get ready for Ido Portal!

I’ve recently found out about Ido Portal. His YouTube videos show the most incredible movement, strength and balance. You can’t watch these videos and not be completely in awe – he makes the movements look so effortless. My handstand push-up ambition just doesn’t quite cut the mustard anymore!

As all the Paleo & related experts do eventually, Ido Portal is coming to Australia! He’s taking a two day workshop on the 25^th & 26^th February, at Elements of Movement, CrossFit Sydney.

Better get practicing…

Who Is Ido Portal?

Ido Portal is a name that comes up time and time again when talking about movement, mobility, and bodyweight strength. A former Capoeira practitioner from Israel, Ido has developed a completely unique movement philosophy that brings together strength training, gymnastics, martial arts, dance, and play. His methods are unconventional, yet captivating. Watching him move is like watching a wild animal – fluid, controlled, powerful. It’s no wonder so many in the Paleo and natural movement worlds are drawn to his teachings.

Unlike traditional gym-based workouts focused solely on isolated muscle groups, Ido Portal encourages movement for the sake of movement. He talks about being a “mover”, rather than a lifter, runner, or yogi. His core message is simple but profound: humans were born to move – in many different ways, through all planes of motion, across a variety of environments.

The Link Between Paleo and Movement

Many people associate Paleo with food – and rightly so. But what we eat is just one part of a much bigger ancestral picture. The Paleo lifestyle also includes sleep, sunlight, connection, and of course – natural movement. Our hunter-gatherer ancestors didn’t train in gyms or sit at desks all day. They squatted, climbed, crawled, jumped, hung, and moved across rugged terrain. Their movement was purposeful, varied, and frequent.

This is why movements like MovNat, Parkour, and now Ido Portal’s Movement Culture resonate so deeply with the Paleo community. They represent a return to the way our bodies were designed to move. Whether you’re navigating a rocky trail barefoot or attempting a one-arm hang, you’re reconnecting with primal movement patterns that modern life has all but erased.

Why Ido Portal's Approach Is Different

Ido Portal’s workshops are nothing like a CrossFit WOD or a typical yoga class. He breaks down movement into its most fundamental elements. You'll practice spinal waves, wrist mobility drills, animal walks, hand balancing, acrobatics, and partner games that challenge your awareness and control.

What makes Ido Portal’s philosophy so compelling – especially for those of us in the Paleo community – is that it embraces both strength and softness. It’s not about hitting PBs in the gym or achieving a ‘perfect’ handstand. It’s about exploring your body’s capacity for movement, developing resilience, and rediscovering physicality in a holistic way.

Ido Portal and the Paleo Fitness Movement in Australia

Australia has long been at the forefront of the Paleo movement, with a vibrant community of primal eaters, barefoot runners, and natural movement advocates. With Ido Portal's workshops now making their way to Australia, it’s clear we’re part of a global shift in how we understand fitness and wellbeing.

In fact, the timing couldn’t be better. With MovNat expanding their Australian offerings and events like PrimalCon showcasing more natural movement each year, Ido Portal’s arrival adds serious weight to the growing Paleo fitness scene down under. Whether you live in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, or somewhere in between, there’s never been a better time to explore this way of moving.

Training for Movement – Not Just Muscles

One of the biggest takeaways from Ido Portal’s teachings is that movement is a skill. Like learning a language or playing a musical instrument, it takes consistent practice, curiosity, and humility. You’ll be challenged mentally and physically – and that’s the point.

Rather than repetitive sets and reps, Ido's students learn patterns. They explore locomotion flows, hand balancing drills, and coordination exercises. These develop not just strength, but control, agility, rhythm, and spatial awareness. It's like play – but with purpose.

For those already eating Paleo and interested in improving health beyond diet, this approach adds depth to your lifestyle. Your body starts to feel more capable, more aligned, and more adaptable to the demands of everyday life – whether that’s chasing after your kids, hiking in the bush, or simply getting up off the floor with ease.

How to Get Started With Ido Portal Inspired Movement

If attending a full workshop feels intimidating (or is out of your reach geographically), there are plenty of ways to incorporate Ido-inspired movement into your daily life.

Start with basic mobility drills: wrist rolls, spinal waves, hip circles – movements you probably haven’t done since childhood.
Practice hanging: from a bar, a tree branch, or even doorways. Build grip strength and decompress your shoulders.
Try animal movements: bear crawls, lizard walks, frog jumps – these build coordination, strength, and endurance.
Make use of floor time: sit on the ground more, experiment with rolling, squatting, and low gait movements.
Watch Ido’s YouTube channel for inspiration – but don’t compare. Use it to spark your curiosity, not self-judgement.

And remember, movement is not something to tick off your to-do list – it’s something to explore, enjoy, and refine every day. Start with 5–10 minutes and grow from there.

The Power of Play

Something else that sets Ido Portal apart is his emphasis on play. Many adults have forgotten how to play. But play is how we learn, how we connect, and how we heal. It doesn’t matter if you’re doing handstands in the park or crawling on the floor with your kids – playful movement helps rewire your brain, improve joint health, and reduce stress.

That playful spirit fits beautifully with the Paleo ethos. This lifestyle is about thriving, not just surviving. Movement should feel like joy, not a chore. It should reconnect you with your body and your environment, not isolate you to a treadmill or gym mat.

Ido Portal in Sydney – What to Expect From a Workshop

If you’re lucky enough to attend one of Ido Portal’s workshops in Australia, here’s what you might expect:

Two full days of movement training that will push you outside your comfort zone.
No fluff: Ido is known for being direct, no-nonsense, and laser-focused on teaching.
Community: a chance to connect with others who are curious about movement, Paleo, and personal growth.
Surprises: expect to be challenged physically and mentally – but in the best way.

Bring an open mind, lots of water, and a sense of humour. You'll be sore, inspired, and possibly a bit overwhelmed – but you'll also leave with a renewed appreciation for what your body can do.

Where to Learn More

If you're just getting started and want to dive deeper into Ido Portal’s world and how it intersects with Paleo fitness, check out the following:

Ido Portal on YouTube – for movement videos, lectures, and examples of his students’ transformations.
Ido Portal on Facebook – for event announcements and philosophy posts.
MovNat Australia – if you're interested in complementary natural movement training.
The Paleo Network – for events, resources, and more Paleo-friendly movement ideas in Australia and New Zealand.

Is Ido Portal Paleo?

While Ido doesn’t explicitly label himself Paleo, his philosophy overlaps with many of the movement principles our ancestors lived by. He advocates for nutrient-dense food, rest, sunlight, barefoot movement, and spending time in nature. He also recognises the dangers of modern sedentary life and offers a powerful antidote through his movement culture.

In that sense, he fits right in with the broader Paleo lifestyle. He may not push bone broth recipes or intermittent fasting, but he embodies the idea of human optimisation through reconnection – with our bodies, our environment, and each other.

Final Word: Get Moving

Whether you’re deep into your Paleo journey or just starting out, Ido Portal’s approach can offer new energy and insight. If you’ve ever felt limited by the typical gym routine, or if you’ve lost touch with how your body likes to move, his work could be a game-changer.

So next time you're barefoot in your backyard, try a squat, a hang, a crawl. See how it feels. Make it part of your day. And if you’re feeling brave – maybe even sign up for that workshop.

Because Paleo isn’t just about what’s on your plate – it’s also about what you do with your body. And the world is your gym.

Mental Toughness

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I got to the gym a few times a week, where I do lots of strength work. This is a great complement to my Paleo diet and is making so many positive changes. I've been giving lots of thought lately to what goes through my mind in the middle of a really hard set. When I first started, I used to think

“This is so hard, I can’t do it, I want to stop”

And guess what, as soon as I allowed those thoughts to enter my head I did stop! This is clearly not a helpful thought to allow. I've noticed on the Biggest Loser that a few of the contestants have that defeatist “can’t do” attitude in training. When they think they can’t do it, it always seems to become a self fulfilling prophecy.

Once I realise how damaging this attitude was, I tried to distract myself from what I was actually doing, to not allow myself to think how heavy the kettlebell was and how much I wanted to stop the reps. Thinking about my plans for the weekend or planning my next holiday was a far better strategy than focusing on how hard the set was, but I still felt I could do better, especially in terms of technique. I don’t want to “just do” a set after all, I want to do it with good form.

I've been trying lots of different mind strategies myself, but the most enlightening thing has been speaking to the fit and strong people in my life and asking them exactly what they think about when the going gets tough. I’ve been really interested in the answers they've given me, and have been trying out a different mental attitude in each of my gym sessions lately. I don’t think it’s a coincidence that the strong, fit people have devised such good mental strategies.

Kevin suggested I repeat the mantra “this is easy” with every rep – which is the exact opposite to what I used to say! This immediately made a big difference.

My PT Karl tells me he focuses on how much he enjoys a difficult set. I'm not quite at this stage yet, but I will get there!

I asked an Iron Woman what she does in the middle of a 180km cycle, when it starts to feel really difficult. She looked at me in surprise and said she can’t let herself think it's getting difficult. She has no option but to continue cycling – or she won’t get home! She focuses on the cycling, her technique and on cycling home.

A PT friend said he feels the set doesn't get going until it starts to get difficult, perhaps not until rep seven. At this stage he tells himself this is where he’s making the difference in his muscles, so he focuses on making these reps as perfect form as possible. The harder it gets, the more he focuses on his form.

Trying to copy these strategies is helping significantly with my training. But I still want to understand the mind set of more fit, strong people. I’d love to hear your mind strategy – how do you get through a hard training session? What goes through your mind?