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Are Protein Powders Paleo?

I've had a few emails recently asking whether protein powders are Paleo – and which ones I would recommend.

Of course, real food is always the best option, but I understand that there are times when a liquid protein “meal” is called for – particularly for people who are crossfitting or lifting weights, perhaps. A post workout meal seems to be the main time people use protein supplements, as they try to replenish the protein and glycogen that they used during their workout.

Real Food Post Workout Protein Options:

Fortunately, there are some quick ways to get a protein hit post workout. Try preparing in advance and taking along with you:

Hard-boiled eggs
Tins of (good quality) fish
Leftover chicken or turkey
Jerky

Whey Protein Powder

A popular form of protein supplement is whey protein. Whey is a by product of cheese making (as in curds and whey), so it is a naturally occurring protein, which contains the proteins beta-lactoglobulin, alpha-lactalbumin, and serum albumin. As whey is clearly dairy, is isn't Paleo, and as it is processed, isn't really Primal either. Whey protein is anti-atherogenic, quick to absorb and is supposed to help with increasing lean muscle mass.

Casein Protein

Casein protein is another milk based protein, but is not as quick to absorb as whey protein.

Egg White Protein

Is another good choice and represents all amino acids

Pea Protein

This is a common vegan protein powder, but is not absorbed as well as animal based protein powders.

Rice Protein

Made from brown rice, this is another vegan protein. Could be a good option is allergic to dairy proteins.

Hemp Protein

This is becoming very popular as another vegetarian/ vegan option, but is also not as well absorbed at the dairy based powders.

Unfortunately, the dairy based protein powders can come from the milk of cows treated with hormones. If you've looked at the ingredients of many powders, you may have noticed artificial sweeteners soy products, and ingredients you can’t even pronounce – not remotely Paleo. For that reason the only protein powder I would recommend (if you feel the need to take one) would be Primal Fuel, from the Primal Blueprint. This is a whey protein, which contains by far the best natural ingredients of any powder I've looked at – and no soy, artificial flavourings or sweeteners.

Do you take protein supplements? I’d love to hear under what circumstances – and which ones you use.

What to Look for in a Paleo-Friendly Protein Powder

When selecting a protein powder that aligns with Paleo principles, it's essential to look beyond just the source of protein. Many powders on the market, even those marketed as “natural” or “healthy,” include hidden additives, preservatives, gums, and sweeteners that are anything but Paleo. The ingredient list should be short, recognisable, and free from synthetic compounds or anything that ends in “-ose” or “-ate.”

A truly Paleo-friendly protein powder should avoid:

Soy protein or soy lecithin
Artificial sweeteners like sucralose, aspartame, or acesulfame potassium
Vegetable oils or canola oil
Gums such as carrageenan, guar gum, or xanthan gum
Fillers, flavourings, and dyes

Instead, look for options sweetened naturally (if at all) with monk fruit, stevia, or coconut sugar. It’s also worth checking if the powder has undergone cold-processing or minimal heat exposure to preserve its nutrient profile, particularly for whey or egg-based proteins.

Collagen as a Paleo Protein Alternative

One increasingly popular protein supplement that’s well-aligned with the Paleo diet is collagen. Collagen peptides are flavourless, dissolve easily in hot or cold liquids, and are incredibly gentle on the digestive system. Unlike whey or casein, collagen is not a complete protein, but it provides a powerful boost of glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline—amino acids crucial for gut health, joint recovery, skin elasticity, and connective tissue repair.

Collagen makes a great addition to morning coffee or post-workout smoothies and complements a diet already rich in muscle meats and organs. Look for grass-fed, pasture-raised collagen peptides, and avoid flavoured versions that often include sweeteners or gums.

Bone Broth Protein: A True Paleo Option

Another excellent option is bone broth protein powder. Made by dehydrating slow-simmered broth from grass-fed bones, this powder offers the benefits of bone broth—collagen, gelatin, glucosamine, and minerals—in a convenient, portable form. It can be used as a savoury base for soups or stews, or added to smoothies for an umami twist. Bone broth protein is especially beneficial for gut repair and joint recovery, making it an ideal post-workout supplement or healing aid during times of high stress or illness.

Should You Use Protein Powder at All?

While it’s tempting to reach for a convenient scoop post-workout, it’s important to ask whether you truly need a protein supplement in the first place. If your diet already includes a variety of high-quality animal proteins—like eggs, fish, poultry, and red meat—you may already be meeting your needs without the need for powdered support.

That said, protein powders can be helpful tools in certain situations:

Post-intense training sessions where food isn’t immediately accessible
For people with reduced appetite or during recovery
During travel, when quality protein is hard to find
As a base for smoothies when time is limited

If you’re relying on protein powder multiple times a day, however, it may be time to reassess your meal planning and look for ways to reintroduce whole food proteins more consistently. Supplements should support—not replace—a real food foundation.

How to Use Paleo Protein Powder Effectively

If you decide to include a protein powder in your Paleo routine, make it work for you by blending it into a well-balanced post-workout shake or meal. Combine it with a source of healthy fat like avocado, coconut cream, or nut butter, and include a handful of berries or greens for added micronutrients and fibre.

Here’s a basic Paleo protein shake formula to try:

1 scoop of clean protein powder (whey isolate, collagen, or bone broth-based)
1 tbsp almond butter or MCT oil
½ cup frozen berries or ½ banana
1 cup almond milk or coconut water
Optional: a pinch of cinnamon or raw cacao for flavour

Blend until smooth and consume within 30–60 minutes after training for optimal recovery and muscle repair.

Protein Powder Red Flags to Watch Out For

When shopping for protein supplements, slick marketing can sometimes disguise a poor-quality product. Watch out for phrases like “proprietary blend,” which often indicates a vague mixture of ingredients with unknown ratios. Be wary of powders that are highly flavoured, brightly coloured, or heavily sweetened—they’re usually masking a low-quality protein base.

Another thing to check is the protein source certification. If you're buying whey or casein, look for labels indicating grass-fed, hormone-free sources. If plant-based, confirm the product is non-GMO and organic where possible.

Final Thoughts on Protein Powders and Paleo

At the end of the day, whether or not you include protein powder in your Paleo lifestyle is a personal choice. For some, it’s a useful tool for convenience and recovery. For others, it may be entirely unnecessary. The key is making informed decisions based on your unique health goals, activity levels, and dietary preferences.

Real food will always be superior when it comes to nutrient density, satiety, and bioavailability. But when you do reach for a supplement, choose one that stays as close to nature as possible. Look at the ingredients, understand the source, and remember that quality matters far more than marketing claims.

Have you experimented with different types of protein powder on your Paleo journey? Let me know what’s worked for you—or what hasn’t—in the comments below. I’d love to hear your experience and any recommendations you’d add to the list.

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The Paleo Diet and Linoleic Acid

Throughout our lives we are led to believe that fats are bad for us – and fats are the reason we pile on weight, but as those of us following the Paleo diet know, this is actually not the case at all How much do you know about Linoleic acid?

Amongst the essential fats which are necessary for a healthy lifestyle are Linoleic and Linolenic acid, which are Omega 6 fatty acids. Linoleic acid is found throughout our whole bodies, which is why it is an essential fatty acid. A lack of Linoleic acid in the body can lead to a number of health issues, such as the hair follicles becoming weak and following out or becoming really dry. Not a problem most of us want to deal with, particularly women!

The key to a healthy lifestyle is to get the ratio of essential fatty acids right, which is why the Paleo diet is the best one to follow to ensure you maximise the health benefits of your diet. If you don’t follow the Paleo diet, you are likely to have far too much Omega 6 in your body and far too little Omega 3. A diet which is too high in Omega 6 is as unhealthy as having too little as it can lead to weight gain, obesity and numerous other health issues.

The key to a healthy lifestyle is to follow the Paleo diet, as this will ensure you are consuming the right balance of good fatty acids, which as a result will enable you to live a long and healthy lifestyle. The best way to ensure the right level of fatty acids in the body is to consume a variety of foods which are part of the Paleo diet. Fish and nut oils for instance are a good source of Omega 3 and offer a number of other health benefits. If you decide to eat butter on the Paleo diet (i.e. take more of a Primal – or Lacto-Paleo stance), it is best to choose organic butter from grass fed animals as this contains Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA), which is thought to have properties which fight cancer and other serious illnesses.

A staple food which should be part of your daily Paleo diet are egg yolks as these are full of nutrients and have the perfect balance between Omega 3 and Omega 6. The white of eggs can also be beneficial to the health but egg yolks are the main source of the right essential fatty acids and nutrients. Eggs can be eaten in all kinds of varieties, including omelette and are a really easy meal for both breakfast and dinner. They are also a good source of protein so you can’t go wrong with having these as part of your diet.

The right combination of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids will not only enable the body to function properly and fight off common illnesses, it is also a great way to lose weight. As the Paleo diet involves eating the right combination of all of the key vitamins, nutrients and fatty acids, it is the perfect way to feel healthier, lose weight and tone up. If you combine the Paleo diet with a good exercise routine, you will be sure to reap the benefits of your hard work in no time at all.

It can take a while to work out the exact benefits of the range of foods available to us, which is why the Paleo diet is the best one to follow. The hard work is done for you so all you have to do is follow it to the letter and ensure you are sticking to the recommended intake of each of the different nutrients and vitamins. The only way to ensure we stay healthy and fight off illnesses to the best of our ability is to have a better awareness of why we eat certain foods. The Paleo diet is carefully constructed for this reason and as such, is the best way to enjoy a healthy diet and lifestyle.

Do you get the right amount of Linoleic Acid in your diet?

Ketones & The Paleo Diet

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If the body is not able to burn glucose in the body, it goes on the search for another energy source to burn which happens to be fat. As fatty acids are burned, the body creates ketones which are compounds which can then lead to ketosis. If you are looking to lose weight quickly, you will want your body to go into ketosis, so that you are using your storage of fat and burning it at a much quicker rate than you usually would.

When you are eating a diet which is quite low in carbs, as the Paleo diet can be, ketosis will usually start in your body, which means you will be burning more fat than you would with a high carb diet.

As the Paleo diet involves eating the types of food our ancestors survived on, there is no harm in following a low carbohydrate as these foods were not freely available at that time and it didn't cause problems back then, so won’t cause them now. As with nutrients and vitamins on the Paleo diet, it is important to keep the levels of ketones in the diet at the right level. It is all about balance and being aware of exactly what we are consuming. You really need to keep track of the ketones in the body and this is even more significant for those who suffer from any serious illnesses, such as diabetes. As with any kind of diet, you should always monitor your levels so that you know you are getting it right and feeling the benefits on your body.

When you initially start a low carb diet such as the Paleo, you will feel some side effects as your body is basically getting used to a new way of using your energy source. You can feel a little dizzy or have symptoms such as a sore head, although these should only be temporary. The body is starting to burn fat rather than glucose, so it is bound to take a bit of getting used to. It is not harmful in any way as you are still getting a good intake of carbohydrates from your fruit and vegetables. Your body is basically going through a state of withdrawals and a withdrawal from anything will cause changes in the bodies.

It is believed that the Paleo diet can actually help to stave off Type 2 Diabetes as it is a much healthier way of living. It is a common misconception that by lowering your carbohydrate level, you are starving your body of what you need, but this is not the case at all. Your body has too little insulin when you don’t follow the correct diet and eat too much of the wrong foods. It can also be the result of stress or another illness which causes insulin levels to lower.

The Paleo diet helps to prevent diabetes developing. If ketone levels reach a dangerously high level, it can increase the likelihood of suffering from serious illnesses such as diabetes. The reason why we should avoid the carbohydrate laden, processed foods is that they are dangerous and unhealthy and the Paleo diet can help us to create the perfect balance.

It is believed that the Paleo diet and a ketogenic diet can also be beneficial for improving the likelihood of suffering from Alzheimer’s and other mental health conditions. As with any diet, you don’t just want to feel the benefits of your hard work, you also want to see them, which is why the Paleo concentrates on a reduced intake of carbohydrates. If you always wondered why a diet with fewer carbohydrates helps you to burn calories, now you know, it’s because of the ketones!

As long as you carefully monitor everything you are putting into your body, you will soon feel a lot healthier than ever before. It is all about eating the right foods with the Paleo diet and making sure the balance is as it should be, so that we are in taking the right amount of all the proper nutrients, vitamins and compounds which will create a much healthier immune system and a longer and healthier life.

Understanding Ketosis on a Paleo Diet

Many people associate ketosis strictly with the ketogenic diet, but the Paleo lifestyle can also naturally support ketosis under the right conditions. While Paleo isn’t inherently a very low-carb approach, it often leads to reduced carbohydrate intake simply by eliminating grains, legumes, and processed sugars. This shift encourages the body to switch from burning glucose to burning fat — resulting in ketone production.

What Are Ketones, Exactly?

Ketones are byproducts created by the liver when it breaks down fatty acids for energy. They include acetoacetate, beta-hydroxybutyrate, and acetone. When ketone levels in the blood rise, the body enters a metabolic state known as ketosis. This state can improve fat burning, regulate appetite, and, in some people, sharpen mental focus and energy.

Can You Be in Ketosis on Paleo?

Yes, but it depends on what you're eating. A Paleo diet rich in starchy vegetables, fruit, and natural sweeteners will likely keep you out of ketosis. However, if your meals focus on fatty meats, eggs, non-starchy vegetables, and healthy fats like coconut oil and avocado, you may naturally enter a mild state of nutritional ketosis.

Benefits of Ketosis for Paleo Eaters

Improved fat metabolism: Encouraging your body to use stored fat for energy can accelerate weight loss.
Steadier energy levels: Without the blood sugar crashes caused by refined carbs, many people report consistent energy throughout the day.
Reduced cravings: Ketones have appetite-suppressing effects, which can make sticking to a healthy diet easier.
Better mental clarity: Some people experience improved cognitive function while in ketosis.

Signs You Might Be in Ketosis

Some common indicators of ketosis include:

Reduced hunger between meals
Metallic or fruity breath (due to acetone)
More frequent urination
Mild fatigue or headache during the transition
Increased focus and mental sharpness

How to Adjust Your Paleo Diet to Support Ketosis

If you're interested in entering ketosis while still following Paleo principles, consider these adjustments:

Lower your fruit intake: Focus on low-sugar fruits like berries in small quantities.
Increase fat: Include more sources of healthy fats like olive oil, ghee, avocado, and fatty fish.
Limit starchy vegetables: Reduce intake of foods like sweet potatoes and pumpkin, especially early on.
Eat moderate protein: Too much protein can be converted to glucose via gluconeogenesis, so don’t overdo it.

Tracking Your Ketones

You don’t necessarily need to test your ketones to benefit from a fat-burning metabolism, but if you're curious, you can measure them using urine strips, blood ketone meters, or breath analysers. These tools can help you see how your food choices affect your metabolic state.

Potential Downsides of Ketosis on Paleo

Some people may not thrive on a ketogenic approach long-term. Women, in particular, may experience hormonal disruptions if carbs are too low. Others may find that performance in high-intensity workouts drops when glycogen stores are chronically depleted. Listen to your body and adjust as needed — the Paleo approach is all about finding what works for you personally.

Should You Aim for Ketosis?

If you're trying to lose weight, manage blood sugar, or reduce inflammation, experimenting with a ketogenic version of Paleo might be helpful. However, it’s not essential to go into ketosis to reap the benefits of the Paleo lifestyle. Many people thrive on a moderate-carb Paleo approach that includes root vegetables, fruit, and other whole foods.

Balancing Paleo and Ketogenic Principles

The good news is that Paleo and ketosis aren’t mutually exclusive. You can adopt a flexible approach, cycling in and out of ketosis depending on your goals and lifestyle. For example, you might eat very low-carb during the week and reintroduce some starchy vegetables on the weekends or around workouts. This strategy can give you the best of both worlds — metabolic flexibility and long-term sustainability.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're naturally slipping into ketosis or aiming to stay in it for a while, the Paleo diet offers a solid foundation for nourishing your body with real, unprocessed food. Just remember to focus on nutrient density, listen to your body, and avoid becoming too rigid with any dietary template.

Sexy back summit sean croxton underground wellness

What You’ll Learn at the SexyBack Summit

If you enjoyed the Paleo Summit, or last year's Real Food Summit, you’ll be excited to hear about this year’s summit. This year, it’s all about natural sexual health, with Sean Croxton’s FREE SexyBack Summit!

Instead of solving problems with pills, the SexyBack summit is going to explore natural ways of solving sexual health related issues. For women, issues like PMS, frequent UTIs, yeast infections, fertility, or even a non-existent libido will be addresses – and for men low testosterone, high estrogen, E.D. and a dwindling sex drive will be explored. Balancing hormones, nutrition and fitness are all going to be covered. As people are reluctant to talk about a lot of these issues, they don’t seek help and let these issues remain needlessly. Well, not anymore!

If you missed out on last year’s presentations, here’s how the summit works… Sean has put together 24 presentations (videos you can watch at home, with slideshows). The talks are hosted by all different experts, including by Chris Kresser, Dr. Sara Gottfried, Paul Check, Jane Bennett, Dave Asprey, Alisa Vitti, Elliot Hulse and Dr. Jen Landa. From the first day of the summit on the 19th of May, until the last day on the 26th of May, there will be three to four new videos everyday. The videos are free for you to watch for 24 hours, before they’re replaced with the next days scheduled videos. So you can watch the entire event – and all 24 presentations – completely free of charge!

If you want to reserve your free spot on the SexyBack summit, just click here to register! You’ll also get access to some (free) advanced videos that are showing now.

Why Sexual Health Deserves a Natural Approach

Sexual health is often treated as a taboo topic, yet it plays a vital role in our overall wellbeing. When hormones are imbalanced, or stress levels are high, libido and fertility are often the first things to suffer. While mainstream solutions tend to involve pharmaceutical interventions, the SexyBack Summit shines a light on more natural, sustainable ways to restore sexual vitality for both men and women. And it's about more than just intimacy — it's about energy, confidence, sleep, hormonal harmony, and long-term reproductive health.

Modern life places heavy demands on our bodies. Poor food choices, lack of sleep, overtraining, and environmental toxins all contribute to hormonal disruption. When you pair that with the tendency to avoid talking about sexual concerns, it’s easy to see why so many people suffer in silence. The SexyBack Summit creates a safe and empowering space to change that narrative.

What You’ll Learn at the SexyBack Summit

This summit covers a wide range of topics that address the root causes of sexual health challenges. With a line-up of respected speakers from integrative health, fitness, and nutritional backgrounds, the event is packed with actionable, real-world advice. Some of the key themes include:

How nutrition directly impacts testosterone, estrogen, and libido
Natural strategies for overcoming PMS, PCOS, and fertility struggles
How chronic stress and cortisol imbalances undermine sexual health
The link between gut health, inflammation, and hormone disruption
Safe biohacking tools to support natural libido and vitality
Fitness strategies that boost sexual performance without exhausting your body

Unlike the quick fixes promoted by the pharmaceutical industry, these sessions are focused on root-cause solutions — which is exactly what Paleo and ancestral health are all about.

Expert Speakers Bringing the Science to Life

The summit features some of the most forward-thinking names in the health world. Whether you're familiar with the presenters or just getting started, you're sure to gain new insights from their personal approaches and practical tips.

Chris Kresser: Brings his deep expertise in functional medicine to explore the nutritional roots of hormone imbalances.
Dr. Sara Gottfried: A Harvard-trained gynaecologist who offers a holistic approach to female hormones and libido.
Dave Asprey: Known for his work in performance and biohacking, he shares tools for boosting energy, drive, and focus naturally.
Paul Chek: An expert in integrative health and movement, offering insights on how physical strength and mental clarity impact sexuality.
Alisa Vitti: Author of “WomanCode”, discussing practical ways to sync your diet and exercise with your menstrual cycle for better energy and libido.

Whether you're interested in the science of hormones, the psychology of intimacy, or the physical practices that support a thriving sex life, there’s a session designed to meet you where you’re at.

Designed for Both Men and Women

Many events on sexual health are gender-specific, but the SexyBack Summit takes a refreshing, inclusive approach. While some talks are tailored specifically for men or women, the underlying principles of hormone regulation, stress resilience, and real-food nutrition apply universally.

For women, topics like oestrogen dominance, adrenal fatigue, and cyclical energy patterns are explained with practical tips for reclaiming vitality. For men, there are powerful insights into optimising testosterone, improving cardiovascular fitness, and managing modern-day stress without burning out.

How the Summit Format Works

The summit runs from the 19th to the 26th of May. Each day, three to four expert-led video presentations will be released. You’ll have a full 24 hours to view each session for free before the next set of videos becomes available. This rolling schedule ensures you’re never overwhelmed, and you can absorb the content at your own pace, from the comfort of home.

There’s also a library of bonus preview videos available right now when you register, so you can start diving into the content even before the summit officially begins.

Why This Matters for the Paleo Community

The principles of Paleo — ancestral health, clean nutrition, movement, sleep, and stress management — are all deeply intertwined with sexual wellbeing. When you nourish your body with whole foods, balance your circadian rhythms, and move intentionally, hormone function improves. The SexyBack Summit reinforces and expands on these ideas, helping attendees refine their approach for optimal hormonal health.

Whether you’re dealing with specific symptoms or just curious about optimising your energy and wellbeing, this summit is a natural extension of the Paleo lifestyle. It’s empowering, evidence-based, and designed to spark conversations about topics that too often stay hidden.

It’s Free — But Only for a Limited Time

Because the summit is free to attend in real time, it’s worth registering even if you’re not sure how many sessions you’ll get to. You can watch as many or as few as you like each day — and if a particular topic resonates with you, you’ll have the option to purchase lifetime access later on. But the best value is to watch as much as you can during the free window.

Whether you’re tuning in to better understand your hormones, support a partner, or simply take proactive steps towards better health, the SexyBack Summit is an invaluable resource. There’s never been a better time to learn, explore, and reconnect — naturally.

Secure Your Free Spot Now

Ready to explore what natural sexual health really means? Register now to get access to the full SexyBack Summit, including all 24 expert presentations and the early bonus videos. Empower yourself with knowledge, and take the next step toward a healthier, more vibrant you.

And if you do tune in, I’d love to hear which presentations stood out to you. Leave a comment and let’s keep the conversation going — it’s time to put these important topics back on the table.

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Lectins & The Paleo Diet

No matter what type of food we eat, we can’t avoid Lectins as they are in absolutely everything we consume on a daily basis. Lectins are proteins which are found in animals, plants and our very own bodies and they have a number of functions which offer a means of protection to us. They can help to control the protein levels in humans but are also protective for plants as well. It is also thought that the right Lectins can also be beneficial in acting as a defense mechanism against serious illnesses, such as cancer.

Lectins can be useful for the body, but they can also be damaging, depending on the type of Lectin. There are many different types of Lectins found in different foods, so it is important to ensure we are taking in the right ones which offer the best benefits to our bodies. The function of Lectins also depend a lot of the individual and how sensitive their digestive system is as to how they will react to specific types of Lectins. The foods which contain particularly harmful Lectins include grains and legumes, which is why they are forbidden on the Paleo diet. These foods have the potential to destroy all of the good nutrients and vitamins in your body which makes you more susceptible to suffering from serious illnesses, such as heart disease and obesity.

If you consume the wrong Lectins and your body rejects these, it will also start rejecting all the good foods you eat, which means they will be of no benefit to you whatsoever. In order for the body to function effectively, it is essential that we absorb the right minerals and nutrients, which is why it is important to avoid legumes and grains on the Paleo diet. There are plenty of foods which contain Lectins which are good for our body and act as a way of protecting it, so it is important to be aware of the right foods to eat in order to get the most out of our bodies and feel as healthy as we can.

Gluten is one of the harmful Lectins that can cause a lot of problems with the digestive system, which is why many people who have particularly sensitive guts have to eat gluten-free foods. Gluten-free foods are becoming standard in supermarkets and restaurants these days, which shows how much of a problem gluten can be. Gluten is often found in wheat products including the high sugar and high fat foods we are advised to avoid as part of the Paleo diet. These harmful Lectins can attack the body and cause a lot of damage to the intestine which results in a leaking gut, not to mention a lot of pain. Bad Lectins can completely destroy the immune system, leading to issues such as extreme weight loss, diarrhea and sickness. It can also cause more serious illnesses, such as diabetes.

There are ways of reducing the presence of bad Lectins in legumes and grains, including soaking and soaking them, but it won’t completely destroy them so it is much better to avoid them completely. The Paleo diet encourages the avoidance of these food groups for a reason; they are not good for the body.

Nuts and seeds also contain Lectins but again, they are only beneficial to the body if you eat these in moderation. There are many of us who can’t stop eating nuts when we start, so if this sounds like you, it is best to just avoid eating them. There are plenty of nutritious foods on the Paleo diet which will offer good Lectins as well as plenty of other important vitamins and nutrients which are essential for a healthy body.

Overall, Lectins won’t pose problems for most people, but there are a number of people who have particularly sensitive guts, which means the bad Lectins, such as those found in grains and legumes can end up causing issues with the digestive system. Sufferers of a sensitive gut are not always born with this; it can develop over a number of years and become a worse problem in later life. It is better to completely avoid these, which is why the Paleo diet is such a beneficial one to follow.

How Lectins Interact with the Gut Lining

Lectins have the ability to bind to carbohydrates and glycoproteins on the surface of the intestinal lining. In people with sensitive digestive systems, this can interfere with nutrient absorption and may contribute to intestinal permeability, commonly referred to as “leaky gut.” This condition allows partially digested food particles and other compounds to pass into the bloodstream, potentially triggering an immune response.

Even for those without immediate symptoms, low-level inflammation triggered by harmful lectins may contribute to fatigue, joint pain, or skin issues. The Paleo diet helps reduce this risk by focusing on whole foods that are low in or free from harmful lectins, such as leafy greens, grass-fed meats, and properly prepared root vegetables.

Lectin Sensitivity and Autoimmune Conditions

There is growing research suggesting that lectins may play a role in exacerbating autoimmune diseases. In genetically predisposed individuals, lectins may confuse the immune system by mimicking proteins found in the body’s own tissues. This process, known as molecular mimicry, may contribute to conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and coeliac disease.

By reducing dietary lectin exposure through a Paleo framework, many people with autoimmune symptoms report fewer flare-ups and improved energy. While this is not a one-size-fits-all solution, it offers a compelling starting point for those exploring nutritional therapy as part of their health journey.

Low-Lectin Paleo Food Swaps

Avoiding high-lectin foods doesn’t mean limiting variety. There are many nutrient-dense Paleo-friendly options that are naturally low in lectins. Consider these swaps in your everyday meals:

Swap lentils and chickpeas for roast pumpkin or cauliflower mash in salads and bowls
Use coconut flour or almond flour instead of wheat-based flours for baking and coating
Replace soy products with coconut aminos or homemade sauces using garlic, ginger, and apple cider vinegar
Choose cassava or sweet potato instead of grains like rice or corn

These alternatives help reduce inflammation while supporting gut health and keeping meals delicious and satisfying.

Nightshades and Their Lectin Content

While grains and legumes are the most well-known sources of problematic lectins, another food group to approach with caution is the nightshade family. Tomatoes, capsicum, potatoes, and eggplants all contain lectins that may irritate the digestive tract in sensitive individuals. Although not all Paleo followers need to avoid nightshades, those with autoimmune conditions or chronic gut issues may benefit from reducing or eliminating them for a trial period.

A helpful approach is to keep a food journal and document symptoms. This can provide valuable insight into whether nightshades or other borderline foods are contributing to discomfort.

Can Soaking or Sprouting Reduce Lectins?

Traditional food preparation methods such as soaking, sprouting, and fermenting can reduce the lectin content in certain plant foods. These techniques were commonly used by ancient cultures before modern processing methods took over. However, while these practices do help reduce some anti-nutrients, they rarely eliminate lectins entirely.

For those committed to a strict Paleo approach, it is simpler to avoid lectin-rich foods altogether rather than relying on preparation techniques. That said, those who tolerate lectins better may find that occasional sprouted nuts or fermented vegetables are acceptable in moderation.

The Role of Resistant Starch and Gut Bacteria

One lesser-known aspect of lectin sensitivity involves the health of your gut microbiome. A diverse and balanced population of gut bacteria may help protect the intestinal lining and reduce the negative impact of low levels of dietary lectins. Resistant starches such as green banana flour and cooked then cooled sweet potato can nourish beneficial bacteria and support a healthier gut barrier.

Incorporating a variety of fibrous vegetables, fermented foods (if tolerated), and occasional resistant starch can help maintain microbial diversity. However, it is still wise to limit high-lectin foods that overwhelm or damage the gut environment.

Signs You Might Be Lectin Sensitive

While not everyone needs to eliminate lectins entirely, certain symptoms may suggest you could benefit from a trial reduction. Common signs of lectin sensitivity include:

Bloating or gas after meals
Unexplained fatigue or brain fog
Joint stiffness or chronic pain
Skin issues like eczema or rashes
Irregular digestion, including constipation or diarrhoea

If these symptoms are familiar, consider a 30-day Paleo-style elimination focused on low-lectin foods. This gives your body a chance to reset, and reintroducing foods one at a time can help identify your personal thresholds.

Are All Lectins Bad?

It is important to acknowledge that not all lectins are harmful. Some types, especially those found in safe vegetables like carrots, celery, or lettuce, are not known to cause irritation. In fact, many of these foods are beneficial and support healthy digestion and immunity.

The key lies in avoiding large quantities of the more reactive lectins, particularly those in improperly cooked or processed grains, legumes, and certain nightshades. By being selective and informed, you can maintain a balanced diet that maximises benefit while minimising risk.

Finding Your Optimal Balance

The Paleo diet is inherently low in harmful lectins, which is why it serves as an ideal template for those looking to improve their digestion and overall health. Whether you go fully lectin-free or simply reduce your exposure, it is about finding what works best for your individual body.

Listen to your symptoms, keep meals simple and nutrient-dense, and give yourself permission to adapt your approach as your body changes. Over time, you may find that you tolerate certain foods better or learn new ways to support your gut health naturally.

Everyone’s tolerance to lectins is different, but by tuning into your body's signals and focusing on whole, Paleo-approved foods, you can take control of your health from the inside out. Do you thrive on a low-lectin lifestyle? Share your experience in the comments below.

Thiamin & The Paleo Diet

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If you want to ensure you keep your body healthy, it is important to consume the right foods with plenty of the essential vitamins required for a healthy lifestyle. One of these vitamins is Thiamin, which is the water soluble vitamin B. The function of Thiamine in the body is to help our cells produce energy and it is imperative in order for our hearts, muscles and nervous system to function properly. Thiamin improves the contraction of muscles and also increased fertility in adults. It is also essential for children as it helps to improve the immune system from a very early age.

There are many notable signs that you may not be consuming enough Thiamin in your body. If your immune system is weak and you suffer from a lot of colds and flus, it may be due to a deficiency in Thiamin. As Thiamin is found in such a high number of different foods, it is quite rare to be deficient in this vitamin but it is quite common in alcoholics. It can also lead to a loss of weight and problems with the cardiovascular and nervous system. If you are consuming too much Thiamin, it can also have negative effects on the body, although these may not be as noticeable as consuming too little. It is recommended that females have around 0.8mg of Thiamin, while males have 1mg. The recommended intake should be lower for children, so it is worth checking before you consume foods with Thiamin.

There are many foods on the Paleo diet which can help you to improve your intake of Thiamin. If you can manage to eat it, offal is a really good source of Thiamin and you can easily incorporate this into your daily meals if you don’t want to eat it as it comes. It is also found in high quantities in meat, such as beef and pork, which is why the Paleo diet is one of the healthiest to follow as it encourages the consumption of these food groups. It is always a good idea to ensure you are not consuming too much of this as otherwise, you won’t feel the full benefits.

If you enjoy eating your snacks on the Paleo diet, you will find that nuts and seeds act as a good source of Thiamin so consume these in moderation and you will soon notice the results. It is also found in a variety of fruits and vegetables, including asparagus, cauliflower and oranges. Eggs are also a good source of Thiamin and are a good choice to eat for your breakfast, as it will set you up for the rest of the day.

Thiamin is a source of vitamin B which is very sensitive to heat which means it can be easily destroyed during the cooking and preparation of food. A good method to use to get the most from it is to ensure you always cook your Thiamin rich foods for as little time as possible, as you will get the full benefits from it. There are other foods which you may want to add to your meals to absorb the Thiamin, including garlic and onions. These will also make them taste a lot better in the process.

As part of any healthy diet it is vital to consume a full range of the right nutrients and vitamins, which is why the Paleo diet is the healthiest to follow. If you are feeling lethargic and in need of a boost to your immune system, Thiamin will help you to feel much healthier and will improve your appearance. You can also find Thiamin in supplements, but it is much better to try and get this from the foods you intake.

As long as you follow the Paleo diet strictly, you will be at your healthiest as you are consuming a wide range of different foods which offer a number of different benefits to the body. No matter what stage of life you start the Paleo diet, whether young or old, you will notice the difference in how you look and feel quite quickly. It is a great diet to ensure you are getting the right amount of vitamins and minerals from your foods. It is important to just keep an eye on your intake of each of the nutrients, so you are getting the maximum possible benefits from your food.

How Thiamin Supports Metabolic Health and Energy

One of the most essential roles of Thiamin is in the metabolism of carbohydrates. When you eat starchy vegetables or natural sugars found in fruit, your body relies on Thiamin to convert these foods into usable energy. Without enough of this B-vitamin, your metabolism may slow down, which can lead to fatigue, difficulty concentrating, or even mood swings.

For those following a Paleo diet, which typically includes fewer refined carbohydrates and more wholefood sources of energy, Thiamin plays a crucial role in supporting energy balance. It’s particularly important for people with physically demanding lifestyles or those trying to build muscle or improve athletic performance.

Best Paleo-Compatible Cooking Methods to Preserve Thiamin

As mentioned earlier, Thiamin is highly sensitive to heat and water. That means that certain cooking methods can destroy a significant portion of the vitamin before the food reaches your plate. To protect the nutrient content of your meals, consider the following cooking techniques:

Steaming: A gentle method that avoids excessive water loss and minimises nutrient damage.
Light sautéing: Cooking meats and vegetables briefly over medium heat with a healthy Paleo fat like coconut oil or beef tallow helps retain vitamins.
Slow roasting at lower temperatures: This method can preserve more nutrients compared to high-heat frying or boiling.

By keeping cooking times short and avoiding high heat, you’ll give your body a better chance of absorbing the full spectrum of nutrients, including Thiamin.

Signs of Thiamin Deficiency to Watch For

Even with a varied Paleo diet, it’s possible to experience low Thiamin levels, especially if you’re under stress, recovering from illness, or consuming excessive coffee or tea, which can interfere with B-vitamin absorption. Watch out for signs such as:

Unexplained tiredness or low stamina
Muscle weakness, especially in the arms or legs
Brain fog or poor memory
Digestive issues like loss of appetite or nausea
Cold hands or feet due to poor circulation

If you suspect your levels might be low, a visit to your healthcare provider can help confirm whether a deficiency is present and if supplementation might be needed.

Should You Supplement with Thiamin?

For most people on a well-balanced Paleo diet, supplementing with Thiamin isn’t necessary. However, if you’ve been under significant stress, have gut absorption issues, or follow a very restrictive eating pattern, it may be worth considering.

When choosing a supplement, opt for Thiamin mononitrate or benfotiamine, which are forms your body can absorb more efficiently. As always, it’s best to prioritise food sources first, with supplements as a backup if needed.

Easy Paleo Meals Rich in Thiamin

Incorporating more Thiamin into your Paleo diet doesn’t require complicated recipes. Here are a few simple, nutrient-rich ideas:

Scrambled eggs with spinach and sunflower seeds: Quick, tasty and packed with Thiamin, iron and healthy fats.
Beef stir-fry with garlic, onions and asparagus: A great weeknight dinner with a generous dose of B vitamins and minerals.
Pork chops with cauliflower mash and steamed broccoli: High in Thiamin and perfect for batch cooking or meal prepping.
Chicken liver pâté on vegetable slices: A classic nutrient-dense snack or lunch option full of bioavailable vitamins.

For extra variety, rotate your protein sources and experiment with herbs and spices to keep your meals exciting while still focusing on nutrient density.

Other B-Vitamins and Their Synergy with Thiamin

Thiamin doesn’t work alone. Like most B vitamins, it works best when consumed alongside its family members — B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B6, B12 and folate. These vitamins often share metabolic pathways, meaning your body relies on having a full complement to function efficiently.

Organ meats, eggs, leafy greens and seafood are all excellent sources of multiple B vitamins, making them staple foods for anyone serious about improving their energy, focus and immune resilience on the Paleo diet.

Supporting Children’s Health with Thiamin-Rich Paleo Foods

Getting enough Thiamin is especially important for growing kids. While they may turn up their noses at offal, you can still sneak nutrient-dense ingredients into everyday meals. Try adding puréed liver into burger mince, offering hard-boiled eggs as snacks, or sprinkling sunflower seeds into veggie-based lunchboxes.

For fussy eaters, try blending steamed cauliflower with a bit of coconut cream and garlic to make a creamy mash, or include chopped asparagus in homemade meatballs or omelettes. These small additions can go a long way in ensuring your child meets their daily Thiamin needs naturally.

Thiamin and the Paleo Lifestyle: Final Thoughts

By following the Paleo diet and focusing on high-quality, nutrient-dense foods, you’re already laying a strong foundation for optimal Thiamin intake. From energy production and neurological support to immune function and growth, this essential B-vitamin plays a role in nearly every system in your body.

Choosing whole foods like offal, pork, seeds and certain vegetables will help you meet your needs without the need for synthetic supplements. Combine this with smart cooking methods and food pairings, and your body will be well-equipped to thrive.

The Paleo Diet Offal Liver Kidney Heart organ meat-min

Offal & The Paleo Diet

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Offal is the organs found in animals and includes the liver, hearts, brains and kidneys and these foods are not commonly consumed, which is the reason why they can be found at really low costs. Offal is not processed, so you know exactly what you are getting, which is not the case with many other foods. If you were to eat non-Paleo processed meat, like sausage rolls or chicken nuggets for example, you would usually be eating bones and other parts of animals which offer no nutritional benefits whatsoever.

As part of the Paleo diet, offal is encouraged as it is packed full of nutrients. The most nutritious is the liver, which is a good source of Vitamin A and the brain, which is rich in Omega 3. Offal also contains a lot of protein and iron, which is not only good for the functioning of your organs but is also good for making your appearance clearer and healthier.

The reason why the Paleo diet encourages the consumption of these organs is that they can offer a wide range of benefits to our health, including improving the immune system and staving off a whole host of illnesses which can result in someone with a poor diet. The point of the diet is to maximise the benefits of the foods we are eating, so even if they don’t seem like the kind of foods you would like, it is well worth giving them a try.

Offal is known as a super-food and although many of us wouldn't usually choose to eat these foods, the number of people buying these has increased in recent years. We are becoming a lot more educated in what foods are beneficial to our bodies and even though offal may not be the most tantalising of choices, the potential benefits make them an important choice as part of our daily diets.

If you are following the Paleo diet, it is important to include offal as it will make a substantial difference in how you look and feel. If the thought of eating these kinds of foods makes you feel a little queasy, there are many ways you can incorporate them into your meal, without even tasting them. You will be surprised at how quickly they become part of your daily routine and these super-foods will set you up for the rest of your life.

We all love a good curry and you can easily make this using offal without really having to taste them. You can add plenty of flavours to your curry which will disguise the texture, if this is off putting to you. If you are on a tight budget, offal is the ideal food to add to your diet, without stretching your budget but ensuring you enjoy the health benefits.

You may even wish to add your offal to a tasty stew or soup and by introducing plenty of other ingredients; you won’t really know the difference from your usual meals. You may even find that after time you start to enjoy the taste of offal on its own. If you have children and want them to enjoy the benefits of the Paleo diet, you should try and add offal to their meals, as it will help to improve their immune system and they will get used to the taste from a young age.

The most nutritious is the liver, so if you choose only one as part of your diet, this should be it. It shouldn't take long to start noticing the health benefits of offal as part of your Paleo diet and you will also find improvements in the appearance of your hair and skin.

With offal, it is even more important than usual to ensure the meat is of the very best quality, ideally organic and grass-fed or pasture raised.

The best animals to consume your offal from are goat, sheep, buffalo and horse and you should be able to pick these up from your local butchers.

Do you use Offal in your cooking? What are your favourite types – and recipes? Share below!

Potassium & The Paleo Diet

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Potassium is one of the key minerals for the diet and it can offer a wealth of health benefits, when consumed in the right level. Potassium is known to help the nervous system, as it plays a part in ensuring it functions properly. It can also help to strengthen muscles in the body and is a good way to reduce cramps. The correct level of potassium will also help the body to maintain a good water balance and ensure that the main organs in the body function to their optimum levels, including the heart and kidneys. A deficiency of potassium can cause a lot of health issues as it will cause a restriction of these organs and can result in an imbalance of minerals in the body.

People who suffer from heart and kidney problems and are overweight, often have far too much sodium in their diet and very little potassium. The wrong ratio of these two can lead to a range of health problems as, although they work well together to ensure the right nutrients are being taken into the body, sodium levels should be at a much lower level than potassium levels. A diet which is high in salt restricts potassium levels and increases sodium levels, which can be highly detrimental in maintaining a healthy body.

As the Paleo diet is based upon the diet of our Stone Age ancestors, it encourages the consumption of foods with high potassium levels and a limitation on those which contain sodium. Our ancestors managed to get the ratio right, but in a culture where many people live on highly processed and sugar rich foods, potassium levels are much lower than they should be to live a healthy lifestyle. We don’t need a high level of sodium to be healthy, but is important that this is not completely restricted from the diet.

There are many foods which are part of the Paleo diet are not only tasty but are also high in potassium levels, which help to keep our bodies in good working order for as long as possible. Meats such as beef, chicken and pork form the staple of the Paleo diet and these can act as a good source of potassium. There are many fruits which also have high potassium content, including avocados and bananas are well known to have potassium in plentiful supply.

Vegetables can also act as a good source of potassium as can nuts and seeds which are ideal on the Paleo diet to consume as a snack, rather than turning to chips and chocolate. Although it is important to have a diet high in potassium, it is also vital to eat the right amounts and not over consume this mineral. A good way to achieve this in the Paleo diet is to take a note of the contents of food we are in taking, so we know we are getting it right.

As the Paleo diet focuses on eating fresh and unprocessed foods, it is the ideal way to maintain a good level of both potassium and sodium. The ratio should always be much higher in potassium than it is in sodium. If you are eating a lot of vegetables, which is encouraged in the Paleo diet, you can reduce potassium levels by soaking them in water, which can also be done with nuts and seeds. A few simple changes to the diet can be hugely beneficial in reducing the likelihood of suffering from serious illnesses and can also reduce the chance of current illnesses becoming serious. It has been shown that those who suffer from kidney disease can improve the condition by improving consumption of potassium and lowering sodium levels.

An awareness of potassium and sodium levels in the body can go a long way to improving health, no matter when you start to educate yourself on it. The Paleo diet is a good way to achieve the right balance of nutrients and vitamins in the body which will stand you in good stead for a long and healthy lifestyle. In order to function properly, the brain needs to be fed with high levels of potassium which can then affect the rest of the body.

It is all about awareness and knowledge of which foods will support us through our lives and those which will be detrimental. The Paleo diet acts as great support for us to ensure we are boosting consumption of the right foods and lowering those which are unhealthy.

Balancing Potassium and Sodium for Optimal Health

One of the most overlooked aspects of modern nutrition is the imbalance between potassium and sodium. While sodium tends to dominate in today’s highly processed diets, potassium often takes a back seat. This imbalance is associated with increased risk of high blood pressure, stroke, and cardiovascular disease. Fortunately, the Paleo diet naturally supports the ideal ratio of potassium to sodium—helping to reverse some of the damage caused by years of poor dietary habits.

The typical Western diet includes excessive sodium from packaged foods, takeaway meals, and processed snacks. By contrast, the Paleo diet eliminates most of these sodium-laden sources, replacing them with whole, potassium-rich ingredients. This shift alone can significantly improve overall health markers, particularly for individuals at risk of hypertension or kidney disease.

Everyday Paleo Foods That Boost Potassium

While bananas are often cited as the go-to potassium source, the Paleo diet offers many other options that are equally effective—if not better. For instance:

Avocados: Rich in heart-healthy fats and high in potassium, avocados are a versatile Paleo staple that can be added to salads, omelettes, or enjoyed on their own.
Sweet potatoes: Not only are they an excellent source of potassium, but they also provide slow-digesting carbohydrates and fibre.
Spinach and leafy greens: These pack a nutritional punch, offering a high potassium-to-sodium ratio that supports nerve and muscle function.
Salmon and tuna: Fatty fish are not only rich in Omega-3s, but also offer a decent dose of potassium, making them a great option for brain and heart health.
Beets, squash, and mushrooms: These vegetables are often underappreciated but are excellent sources of potassium and other essential micronutrients.

Incorporating a variety of these foods ensures that your potassium intake remains consistent and balanced throughout the week, without the need for supplements or over-reliance on one particular source.

Hydration and Electrolyte Balance

Potassium also plays a crucial role in regulating fluid balance in the body. It works alongside sodium to maintain proper hydration levels, support nerve conduction, and prevent muscle cramps. When you're well-hydrated and consuming potassium-rich whole foods, your body is better equipped to regulate blood pressure and manage electrolyte levels—especially important for active individuals or those living in warmer climates like Australia.

One important consideration for Paleo followers is to remain aware of how certain cooking methods may affect potassium levels. Boiling vegetables, for example, can cause some minerals to leach into the water. To retain more nutrients, consider steaming, roasting, or lightly sautéing your vegetables instead.

Who Should Monitor Potassium Intake?

While the Paleo diet encourages high potassium consumption through natural foods, it’s important to note that individuals with kidney disease or those on certain medications should consult with their healthcare provider before drastically changing their intake. In such cases, potassium levels can build up in the blood, leading to complications. However, for most healthy adults, increasing potassium via food sources—as opposed to supplements—is both safe and beneficial.

A Natural Way to Restore Balance

Ultimately, the Paleo approach to nutrition creates a strong foundation for potassium balance. By removing processed, salty foods and replacing them with fresh produce, high-quality meats, and healthy fats, this way of eating naturally reduces sodium intake and boosts potassium levels—no calorie counting or macro tracking required.

As awareness of the importance of potassium continues to grow, embracing a diet like Paleo could be one of the most effective long-term strategies for managing blood pressure, supporting kidney health, and improving overall wellbeing. With just a few smart food swaps and a back-to-basics approach, you can significantly improve your nutritional balance and support vital functions throughout your body.

Are you including enough potassium-rich foods in your Paleo meals? Let us know your favourite sources in the comments below!

Phytic Acid & The Paleo Diet

There are many benefits to adhering to the Paleo diet as a means of getting rid of body fat and helping to reduce the likelihood of a number of illnesses. One of the benefits of the Paleo diet is that it can help to reduce phytic acid intake. It obliterates foods which are full of phytic acid in favour of those which contain low levels such as fruits and vegetables.

Phytic acid is highly obstructive as it has the ability to stop essential minerals from being absorbed. These minerals include magnesium, iron and calcium, which are important as part of any healthy diet. Phytic acid binds itself to these minerals and as our bodies can’t break them down, it can result in a number of health issues. There are many people who consume high levels of cereal, as they believe that this is beneficial to the health but in fact these are one of the main culprits of phytic acid. As a result, they can actually prove to be quite damaging to the health. As our ancestors substituted cereals for other healthy foods such as vegetables and fruits, it was a much healthier way of living which is why the Paleo diet is the best one to follow.

The health issues which can result from a diet which is high in phytic acid include PMS, stomach cramps and skin problems, which can be very detrimental for our quality of life. There are many people who also suffer from anaemia, which is caused by iron deficiency and it is believed that this could be caused through a high phytic acid diet. The Paleo diet promotes an eating plan which minimises the intake of foods which contain phytic acid, in order to promote a healthier lifestyle.

The right diet is the most important way of maintaining good health and more often than not, most of us will reach for the painkillers when we feel unwell, rather than getting to the root cause of the problem. There are certain foods which are extremely high in phytic acid and these are best to completely stay clear of when following the Paleo diet. The most common of these are grains and legumes. These foods can be replaced with fruits, vegetables and nuts and seeds, which are full of minerals and antioxidants.

Nuts and seeds are quite high offenders when it comes to levels of phytic acid but you can minimise these by soaking them in purified water. Nuts are full of health benefits, but should only be eaten in moderation; otherwise they will be counter productive. As far back as our ancestors, people were soaking their nuts and seeds and as the reason behind the Paleo diet is to go back to our roots, it is a ritual we should bear in mind when trying to reduce our intake of phytic acid. The best way to achieve this is to soak the nuts in purified water, cover them and add sea salt. You should then give them a rinse and drain them, before putting them in the oven at the lowest possible temperature. It may seem like a bit of a lengthy process, but the benefits to help are worth taking these steps.

In order to really get the balance between the right nutrients and lowering levels of phytic acid, it is worth educating ourselves on the content of our foods so we are more aware of whether or not they will be detrimental to our health. There are plenty of nutritious foods to eat as part of the Paleo diet, which will result in noticeable changes to your health and fitness levels. Good combinations of the right foods, together with an exercise plan will not only improve your appearance, but will also help you to enjoy a longer and more fulfilling lifestyle.

If you find any of the foods on the Paleo diet are bland, you can always season them with apple cider vinegar as this is a tasty substitute to high calorie mayonnaise and it offers lots of health benefits. It can take a while to get used to following the diet, but it can be really beneficial to the body and appearance. It will soon become a way of life and reducing phytic acid levels is just one of the many benefits of following this simple but effective diet.

How Phytic Acid Affects Nutrient Absorption

Phytic acid, also known as phytate when in salt form, is often found in the outer layer of seeds, nuts, legumes, and grains. While it serves a protective function in plants, its impact on human health is more complex. Once ingested, phytic acid binds to positively charged minerals like zinc, calcium, magnesium, and iron — forming insoluble complexes that the body cannot absorb. This effectively reduces the bioavailability of these essential minerals, even when your diet includes an otherwise adequate intake.

Over time, consistent consumption of foods high in phytic acid can contribute to deficiencies, particularly for individuals who are already at risk of low mineral levels. This is especially concerning for women (due to menstrual blood loss and pregnancy), children, athletes, and those recovering from illness. The Paleo diet naturally avoids high-phytate foods by steering clear of legumes and grains, making it a practical approach to maintaining mineral balance without the need for supplementation.

Modern Misconceptions About ‘Health Foods’

Marketing has led many people to believe that breakfast cereals, wholegrain bread, and granola bars are healthy daily staples. Yet, these products often contain high levels of phytic acid due to the processing of wheat, oats, soy, or other legumes. While fortified with synthetic vitamins and minerals, the phytic acid content can still impair absorption, particularly in the case of non-heme iron — the type found in plant foods.

When viewed through a Paleo lens, these so-called health foods lose their appeal. By focusing on bioavailable nutrients from natural sources — such as leafy greens, animal proteins, and fermented or properly prepared nuts — the Paleo diet offers a far more effective way to nourish the body without interfering with digestion or mineral uptake.

Traditional Practices for Reducing Phytic Acid

Long before modern science understood the implications of phytic acid, traditional cultures developed food preparation techniques that naturally reduced its levels. Soaking, sprouting, fermenting, and slow-cooking were commonplace, especially for legumes and grains. These methods activate phytase, an enzyme that breaks down phytate and helps release the bound minerals.

While Paleo largely avoids grains and legumes, nuts and seeds are still included — though in moderation. Applying the same ancestral wisdom of soaking and low-temperature dehydrating allows you to enjoy these foods without the same anti-nutrient load. If you regularly consume almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds, it’s worth adopting a soaking routine as part of your food prep rituals.

Meal Planning for Low Phytic Acid Living

Creating balanced Paleo meals that avoid phytic acid and support optimal nutrition is easier than it sounds. Here are some simple ideas:

Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with sautéed kale and mushrooms, plus half an avocado
Lunch: Grilled chicken breast over a salad of rocket, cucumber, beetroot, and olive oil dressing
Dinner: Baked salmon with roasted sweet potato and steamed broccoli
Snack: A small handful of soaked and dehydrated cashews or macadamias

These meals are rich in micronutrients, contain minimal to no phytic acid, and offer plenty of fibre and healthy fats — all essential for sustained energy and long-term wellness.

The Long-Term Benefits of Reducing Phytic Acid

In addition to improving nutrient absorption, reducing dietary phytic acid can lead to noticeable improvements in energy, mood, skin clarity, and digestion. Many people who switch to Paleo report a reduction in bloating, fatigue, and cravings, especially when high-phytate foods are eliminated. Over time, the cumulative benefits of improved mineral status can lead to stronger immunity, better hormonal balance, and increased bone density.

Furthermore, minimising anti-nutrients like phytates can be particularly important for those with gut conditions such as IBS, SIBO, or leaky gut syndrome. By removing dietary irritants, the gut lining has a chance to heal and absorb nutrients more effectively — often leading to fewer symptoms and better overall resilience.

Final Thoughts on Phytic Acid and the Paleo Diet

Reducing phytic acid is just one of many advantages to living Paleo. By emphasising whole, nutrient-dense foods that don’t compete with your body’s ability to absorb essential minerals, you’re building a strong foundation for lifelong health. It’s not about restriction — it’s about making food choices that align with how our bodies evolved to thrive.

If you’re just beginning your Paleo journey, don’t stress about perfection. Focus first on removing the obvious offenders — cereals, bread, legumes — and get comfortable with preparing whole meals from scratch. Over time, you can add in practices like soaking nuts and rotating seasonal produce for even better results.

Have you noticed changes in your health since lowering your intake of phytic acid? Share your experiences in the comments — it’s always inspiring to hear how small shifts in diet can lead to meaningful transformations.

Dementia & The Paleo Diet

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Dementia is a serious health condition which causes the deterioration of the brain and although it is a disease which is most common in older people, it can also affect the young. The instances of dementia (of which Alzheimer's is perhaps the most well known type) are growing in modern society and although it has always been a major concern, awareness of the disease is higher than ever before.

In the past, we would have viewed the signs of dementia as a typical part of becoming older, but this is not the case as there are plenty of people of an older age who still have a fully functioning brain. The signs of dementia include a change in personality, memory loss and/or the inability to carry out simple everyday tasks. There are sufferers of dementia who can even lose the ability to eat which can then lead to further illnesses. The effects of dementia can be rapid or can happen over a long period of time.

Dementia not only has a major effect on the sufferer of the disease, it can also have a hugely negative effect on the family and friends of their loved one as they change into a completely different person to the one they love. The sufferer may even lose the ability to identify their loved ones which can be heartbreaking for friends and family to watch.

As the awareness of this disease increases, there are many people who believe that our diet can have a major influence on how likely we are to suffer from it. It is believed that the Paleo diet is one which can actually prevent dementia or stop it progressing to an incurable stage. There is evidence to suggest that there is a strong link between dementia and diabetes, an illness which is caused through an unhealthy diet and is most common in people who are overweight. In fact, referring to dementia as Type 3 Diabetes is becoming increasingly common.

There are a number of foods which have a negative effect on the body and thus, can be detrimental for the functioning of the brain. Those foods which are high in sugar can contribute to diabetes and dementia which is why the Paleo diet can be beneficial in improving health and helping to combat the effects since these foods are not part of the diet.

A high intake of Omega 3 is known to improve memory and help improve the overall function of the brain, which is why they are a major part of the Paleo diet. If we start to increase the consumption of foods with Omega 3, including fresh fish and salmon at any stage in our lives, we can improve the function of the brain which will help to stave off the likelihood of dementia and other serious illnesses.

As the Paleo diet also promotes the intake of fruit and vegetables which contain an abundance of the key vitamins required for a healthy lifestyle, it can provide us with the sustenance which is essential to maintain a clear state of mind. There is also a link between a diet which is high in carbohydrates and dementia and no evidence to suggest that omitting these from the diet will result in any negative effects on the body.

As we strive towards a healthier body and state of mind for as long as possible, it is important to look closely at our diet and ensure we are eating foods which are rich in vitamins, protein and the right fatty acids, such as Omega 3. The Paleo diet offers a positive approach to ensuring we live a long and prosperous lifestyle by turning away from the foods which are high in carbohydrates and fat and rich in all of the right nutrients.

It makes sense that we should take a positive approach to our diets if we want to ensure we give ourselves the best possible chance of avoiding serious illnesses such as dementia. The Paleo diet is a simple one to follow and can offer a wealth of benefits to improving our overall health and wellbeing. A combination of the right food groups and an active lifestyle will increase oxygen to the brain which can seriously reduce our chances of suffering from dementia.

How the Paleo Diet Supports Long-Term Brain Health

In recent years, there has been growing interest in the connection between what we eat and how our brain functions as we age. As neurodegenerative diseases like dementia and Alzheimer’s become more prevalent, many researchers and health-conscious individuals are asking the same question: can diet really influence brain health? For those exploring holistic prevention methods, the Paleo diet continues to emerge as a promising dietary approach.

The Inflammation Connection: What the Paleo Diet Avoids

One of the core ideas behind using the Paleo diet as a tool to support cognitive health is its natural anti-inflammatory foundation. Chronic inflammation in the body is widely recognised as a contributor to many long-term illnesses, including Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia. The standard Western diet – rich in refined carbohydrates, added sugars, and processed seed oils – is known to trigger and maintain systemic inflammation over time.

The Paleo approach eliminates these inflammatory triggers by removing grains, refined sugars, seed oils, and processed foods. Instead, it emphasises whole, unprocessed foods that our bodies were designed to thrive on. The result? Reduced inflammation throughout the body and the brain, potentially lowering the risk of cognitive decline over time.

Ketones, Brain Fuel & Metabolic Health

While the Paleo diet is not strictly ketogenic, it often results in a lower carbohydrate intake compared to the modern Western diet. This reduction in carbs can allow the body to access fat stores and produce ketones – a clean-burning fuel source for the brain. There is growing evidence that ketones can improve mitochondrial function and reduce oxidative stress in brain cells, both of which are key factors in cognitive longevity.

Moreover, the Paleo diet supports better blood sugar regulation. This is particularly relevant because insulin resistance is closely linked to cognitive disorders. In fact, Alzheimer’s is increasingly being referred to as “Type 3 diabetes.” By cutting out refined carbohydrates and sugars, the Paleo lifestyle helps stabilise blood glucose and reduce the metabolic strain on the brain.

Essential Nutrients for Cognitive Protection

One of the major advantages of eating a Paleo diet is the abundance of nutrient-dense foods it includes. Many of these nutrients are directly linked to brain health and are often lacking in conventional diets. These include:

Vitamin B12: Vital for energy production and neurological function. Found in liver, beef, and eggs – all staples in a Paleo diet.
Choline: Supports memory and brain development. Abundant in egg yolks and liver.
Magnesium: Important for nerve transmission and reducing brain inflammation. Present in leafy greens, nuts, and seeds.
Antioxidants: Berries and colourful vegetables are rich in flavonoids, which help protect brain cells from oxidative damage.

These nutrients play synergistic roles in keeping the brain healthy and resilient. Regular consumption of these Paleo-approved ingredients helps fortify the brain against age-related deterioration.

Gut-Brain Axis: Why Your Microbiome Matters

The gut and brain are intricately linked through the gut-brain axis – a bidirectional communication network involving hormones, neurotransmitters, and immune responses. A healthy gut microbiome is now known to influence mood, memory, and even the risk of neurological conditions. Unfortunately, ultra-processed foods, artificial additives, and antibiotics can wreak havoc on the delicate balance of gut bacteria.

The Paleo diet naturally promotes gut health by providing ample fibre from vegetables, prebiotics from root vegetables like sweet potatoes, and fermented foods (if included). A diverse and balanced microbiome helps modulate inflammation, reduce brain fog, and may play a role in protecting cognitive function over the long term.

Exercise, Sleep and the Bigger Picture

While diet is foundational, it’s important to remember that cognitive health is influenced by multiple lifestyle factors. A Paleo lifestyle often encourages other health-promoting habits like regular movement, good sleep hygiene, and time spent outdoors – all of which contribute to healthy brain ageing.

Sleep, in particular, plays a vital role in memory consolidation and toxin clearance from the brain. Poor sleep is a known risk factor for dementia, and improving sleep quality – alongside a nutrient-dense diet – creates a holistic defence against cognitive decline.

Real Food, Real Benefits: A Sustainable Brain-Supportive Diet

One of the main reasons the Paleo diet can be such an effective strategy for long-term brain health is its focus on eating real food. Unlike restrictive fad diets or short-term detoxes, the Paleo approach can be sustained over the long haul, making it ideal for those who want to prevent – not just manage – illnesses like dementia.

By focusing on meat, fish, eggs, vegetables, healthy fats, and fruits in moderation, the Paleo diet provides the body and brain with all the building blocks they need to thrive. It’s about eating intentionally to protect your future self, not just looking good today.

Emerging Research and Next Steps

While there is still more research to be done, the early signs are promising. Studies show correlations between lower carbohydrate intake and reduced risk of Alzheimer’s. There is also growing support for the use of higher-fat, whole-food diets in delaying the onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases.

If you're looking to make proactive changes to your diet for the sake of your long-term brain health, shifting toward a Paleo-style way of eating may be one of the smartest decisions you can make. Consult a health professional familiar with ancestral nutrition if you’re unsure where to start.

Final Thoughts on Paleo and Dementia Prevention

We may not have complete control over our genetic predisposition, but our daily habits play a significant role in how those genes are expressed. Adopting a Paleo diet could offer a strong nutritional foundation for protecting brain health and delaying cognitive decline. It’s about more than avoiding disease – it’s about thriving, thinking clearly, and living fully at every stage of life.

If you’re already eating Paleo or considering making the switch, know that your brain will likely thank you. And as research continues to evolve, the link between nutrition and brain health is only going to get stronger.

Have you or someone you know tried the Paleo diet to improve brain health or manage cognitive symptoms? Share your experience in the comments below – we’d love to hear your story.