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Is Quinoa Paleo?

So we know that grains aren't Paleo, but what about the pseudo grains such as quinoa (pronounced “keen-wah”) chia seeds and buckwheat? Are they considered acceptable for a paleo diet? The answer is no, and here’s the reason why…

Pseudo grains are actually seeds, not grains, but are loaded with anti nutrients and carb heavy. If it looks and acts like a grain – it’s a grain! Quinoa seems to be a really fashionable “health food” at the moment – but do you really need it?

Just like other grains, quinoa contains anti nutrients like phytic acid, lectins and saponins – substances not tolerated well – and not good for gut health and permeability. Phytic acid binds to minerals preventing you from absorbing them – it can even leach minerals from your body for this purpose. Lectins and saponins are culperates in gut permeability which can lead to leaky gut.

Whilst properly preparing grains by soaking and sprouting can help to minimise the amounts of anti nutrients in the grains, it won’t get rid of them entirely.

Quinoa is popular because it’s high in protein, yet many paleo foods such as grass-fed meat and leafy green vegetables are actually far better sources of protein.

Before you can eat grains like quinoa, a lot of processes need to happen – which is why it is a “modern” food. Pseudo grains need to be ground, separated, roasted and rinsed. Would you do all that work yourself just to add in a small about of quinoa to you lunch?

Whilst some people may tolerate properly prepared grains,if you are in any doubt, it’s surely best to avoid them altogether. There are so many paleo friendly alternatives, such as cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

Pseudo Grains and Digestive Health

Many people turn to pseudo grains like quinoa, buckwheat, and amaranth under the impression that they’re a safe, gluten-free alternative to traditional grains. However, for those following a Paleo lifestyle, especially anyone dealing with autoimmune or digestive issues, pseudo grains can be problematic. These seed-based imposters often come with similar drawbacks as true grains — most notably, they contribute to gut irritation and inflammation due to their anti-nutrient content.

The lectins found in pseudo grains can bind to the lining of the gut and, over time, contribute to compromised intestinal barriers. This is especially concerning for individuals who already struggle with food intolerances, IBS, or autoimmune flare-ups. Even if you're not currently symptomatic, regularly consuming pseudo grains can create a low-grade inflammation that may go unnoticed — until it becomes a more significant health issue.

Are Pseudo Grains Ever Paleo-Compatible?

There is a small subset of Paleo followers who advocate for the occasional use of soaked or sprouted pseudo grains, arguing that preparation methods can render them less harmful. While it’s true that soaking and fermenting can reduce levels of phytic acid and other anti-nutrients, it does not eliminate them completely. For strict Paleo adherents, the benchmark is clear: if you couldn't have reasonably prepared it using traditional, pre-agricultural methods, it doesn't belong on your plate.

That said, everybody is different. Some people who follow a more relaxed version of Paleo may choose to include a small amount of well-prepared pseudo grains, particularly after they’ve healed their gut. But for those looking to follow Paleo principles for maximum health optimisation, it makes more sense to focus on truly nutrient-dense, ancestral foods that require minimal preparation and are rich in bioavailable nutrients.

Better Paleo Alternatives to Pseudo Grains

Rather than attempting to recreate grain-like dishes using quinoa or buckwheat, it’s far more rewarding to experiment with truly Paleo-friendly alternatives. Here are some favourite substitutions that work well in most recipes and are kinder on your digestion:

Cauliflower Rice: A perfect stand-in for couscous or rice, it’s light, easy to digest, and can be flavoured in endless ways.
Spaghetti Squash: A brilliant noodle replacement for dishes like spaghetti Bolognese or stir-fries.
Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): Ideal for cold noodle salads or warm pasta-style meals with a Paleo pesto or tomato sauce.
Coconut Flour & Almond Meal: Great for baking, thickening sauces, or creating Paleo-style flatbreads and pancakes.
Sweet Potato: A nutrient-rich option that provides fibre and carbohydrates without the gut irritants found in grains.

These alternatives are not only more aligned with Paleo principles, but they also tend to be easier to prepare and integrate seamlessly into meals without the complications of soaking, rinsing, or fermenting.

Environmental and Ethical Considerations

Another important angle to consider with pseudo grains like quinoa is sustainability. As demand for these crops has skyrocketed in recent years, especially in Western countries, it has led to issues in the regions where they are traditionally grown. In parts of South America, local populations are now unable to afford quinoa due to export-driven price inflation.

From a sustainability and ethical perspective, choosing locally grown, in-season vegetables, pastured meats, and sustainable seafood aligns better with both the Paleo ethos and environmental responsibility. These foods are not just better for your health, but for the planet and local economies too.

Blood Sugar and Pseudo Grains

Another drawback of pseudo grains is their impact on blood sugar. Despite being promoted as low-GI or high-protein, most pseudo grains have a relatively high carbohydrate load. For people trying to regulate insulin, support fat loss, or manage energy levels, they can cause undesirable blood sugar spikes. This is especially true when consumed as part of a high-carb meal or in large quantities, which is often the case with quinoa-based salads or grain bowls.

By contrast, Paleo staples like leafy greens, fermented vegetables, and healthy fats provide a slower energy release, more stable blood sugar, and far more micronutrients per bite.

Why the “Health Food” Halo Can Be Misleading

The rise of pseudo grains has been helped along by slick marketing, wellness trends, and an increasing demand for gluten-free products. But just because a product is gluten-free or organic doesn’t mean it’s Paleo — or healthy. Many people assume that anything labelled a “superfood” must be good for them, without questioning its preparation process, origin, or effects on the body.

This health halo effect is particularly strong with quinoa, often presented as the perfect protein source. But its protein is incomplete (unlike that from meat or eggs), and the minerals it does contain may not be well absorbed due to anti-nutrients. It’s essential to critically evaluate these trends, especially when your health is your top priority.

The Simplicity of a True Paleo Diet

One of the best parts of Paleo is how simple it can be. There's no need to chase exotic or trendy foods when the most nourishing meals are often the most basic. A grass-fed steak, roasted seasonal vegetables, a handful of macadamia nuts, and a drizzle of olive oil can offer more nutrition and satiety than any pseudo grain bowl.

With just a little planning and prep, you can create meals that support gut health, blood sugar balance, and overall vitality without ever reaching for quinoa, buckwheat or other “healthy” grains.

Final Thoughts on Pseudo Grains

While pseudo grains might seem like a harmless or even healthy compromise, they simply don’t measure up when compared to the nutrient-dense whole foods that form the foundation of a true Paleo lifestyle. Whether your goal is to reduce inflammation, support digestion, lose weight, or just feel better day to day, the best results come from choosing foods your body was designed to eat.

If you’re new to Paleo or still experimenting with what works for you, consider taking a break from all grains and pseudo grains for 30 days. Then, if you reintroduce them, take note of how your body responds. You might be surprised just how much better you feel without them.

Do you avoid all grains, or do you eat some in moderation? How do you prepare them? I’d love to hear what you think about pseudo grains like quinoa, in the comments below.

My Aldi paleo shopping list

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I have a confession… I don’t grow all of my own food or shop exclusively from farmers markets, organic butchers and fishmongers. With a long commute and long hours, I often just don’t have the time to source my food in the way I’d like. Believe it or not, I've found Aldi can be a fairly good place to buy Paleo friendly food. Whilst it’s clearly not the same as knowing the farm(er) your food came from, I think it can be a good compromise. It also tends to be far cheaper than my other local supermarket options (i.e. Coles and Woolworths).

I thought I’d share with you my Aldi paleo picks…

Meat & Poultry

Aldi sell “Highland Park” beef – it’s grass-fed! We like grass-fed! As you know, I don’t buy mince/ ground beef, but I have tried the Highland Park Steaks ($17.99 – $25.99/kg depending on the cut)

They also stock Willowton free range chicken (thighs, breast and drumsticks)

Butter

Butter is another good buy (but is it paleo?) as Aldi have an organic butter for under $3 a pack

Nuts

Nuts are another staple that I use just for a snack, in a no-oatmeal or occasionally for a bit of paleo baking. I've seen the Forresters brand of natural almonds and also raw walnuts in my local Aldi.

Eggs

I've not actually tried Aldi’s eggs yet, but they do sell free range eggs.

Oil

Whilst I've never seen coconut oil in Aldi, they do have an Australian olive oil that seems quite good for just under $5.

Berries

My final paleo in a pinch purchase at Aldi is frozen berries (Sweet Haven brand), which are handy to keep in the freezer for smoothies or even a quick ice cream.

Can You Really Do Paleo at Aldi? Absolutely.

While it’s ideal to source food from farmers markets and local producers, the reality is that many of us juggle busy schedules and tight budgets. Aldi offers a surprisingly solid range of Paleo-friendly staples — from grass-fed beef and free-range chicken to frozen berries, raw nuts, and olive oil.

If you're following a Paleo diet in Australia, Aldi can be a great backup or even your go-to for the basics. It might not stock everything (like coconut oil or bone broth), but for everyday items, it’s a cost-effective and time-saving option that helps you stick to your Paleo goals.

As with any supermarket, the key is label-reading and making conscious choices. Stock up when you find good items, and keep your freezer, pantry, and fridge filled with Paleo staples that work for your lifestyle.

Have you discovered any great Paleo-friendly finds at Aldi lately? Let me know in the comments — I’d love to add them to the list!

Paleo what's wrong with white potatoes are they allowed sweet potatoes diet carbs-min

Are Potatoes Bad for You?

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Do you have potato-blood? I hope not because that would mean that you are terribly ill. It’s an old expression, apparently. But I digress; are potatoes really that unhealthy to eat? And do they fit in with a paleo diet?

If you read a lot of Paleo blogs, I'm sure you’ll have noticed that opinions vary significantly… here are some of the viewpoints…

Paleolithic or a bit younger?

Potatoes are a contentious subject when it comes to the paleo diet. Strictly speaking they don’t fit the bill, at least not at first sight. Cultivation of vegetables started the Neolithic era, and consuming potatoes is most likely developed during this period, not before. Raw potatoes are not the most delicious food you've ever had; you need to cook them before they become more edible (although some people do eat them raw, it’s not advisable).

A potato is also a ‘nightshade’, which would not have come into existence before the Neolithic period, like tomatoes and eggplant. Paleolithic people would not have eaten them, simply because they were not around. But we can’t be sure about this. And anyway – Paleo is a science – not a re-enactment, after all!

The fact that some people are not able to fully digest a potato, can lead to the theory that we never adapted to these foods, and therefore, are not supposed to eat them. The paleo theory that some people follow “if you can’t eat it raw, it’s not paleo” seems to be valid here. Whilst regular potatoes and white potatoes are not edible in their raw forms, sweet potatoes are (but again, I wouldn't advise it!)

Potatoes and your health

Potatoes consist mainly of starch, which isn't very good for people that are insulin resistant. Although they are a ‘pure food’, it needs to be cooked to become edible. Further processing is not necessary, as it would be in the case of grains (a much easier to define Paleo no-no).

Potatoes are 100% carbohydrate. This will increase your insulin, which is fine for some people. Athletes and those who train hard are often able to eat potatoes almost every day and have no problems with them. Potatoes are a very healthy source of carbs to refill and refuel your body (especially compared to grains and other refined carbs for example). So, it completely depends on you; but if you’re overweight, already insulin resistant, and your body isn't good in coping with glucose – then I’d leave the potatoes alone.

Personal choice

Whether or not you think that you should, or should not, include potatoes into your diet is completely up to you. It is very likely that the Paleolithic humans did eat raw potatoes.

If you are already overweight, it is probably best to avoid them. Because they are so carb heavy, it’s better to leave them alone and replace them with other paleo foods that are just as nutritious, but with less carbs.

If you are sensitive to nightshades, be careful. Nightshades can cause serious bowel and digestive problems to people who are sensitive.

Potato Considerations

Should you consider to have potatoes in your diet, you might like to consider the points below:

Peel the potato! Most of the toxins are located in the skin. Removing the skin, removes the risk
Buy organic potatoes. Potatoes have the tendency to suck up the toxins from the ground. Since the modern human uses toxins to make foods grown, it’s better to buy organic potatoes that are not drenched in them.
Green potatoes are bad. They contain saponins, which are toxic. Don’t eat the green ones!
Potatoes break down to glucose. When you are trying to lose weight, potatoes are definitely banned from the menu.

Sweet Potatoes vs White Potatoes

One of the most common questions in the Paleo world is whether sweet potatoes are a better option than white potatoes. Nutritionally, both offer benefits, but they serve slightly different purposes depending on your health goals and individual tolerance.

Sweet potatoes are generally accepted across most Paleo frameworks. They’re rich in beta-carotene (which the body converts to vitamin A), and tend to have a gentler impact on blood sugar levels. For this reason, they’re often the go-to choice for people looking to support stable energy levels while still enjoying a satisfying, starchy vegetable.

White potatoes, on the other hand, have a higher glycaemic index, meaning they raise blood glucose more rapidly. While this isn't inherently “bad,” it’s something to be aware of, especially if you’re managing insulin resistance or trying to lose weight.

If you’re not dealing with any specific health concerns, white potatoes in moderation can be perfectly fine. But for those in the early stages of a weight loss journey or with autoimmune sensitivities, sweet potatoes may be the safer and more nutrient-dense choice.

Preparation Methods Matter

Not all potato dishes are created equal. How you prepare potatoes can significantly affect their health impact. Boiling or roasting potatoes (especially after peeling and choosing organic) is a far cry from deep frying them in seed oils or serving them smothered in sour cream and cheese.

Interestingly, cooking and then cooling potatoes forms resistant starch — a type of carbohydrate that resists digestion and acts more like fibre. Resistant starch can feed beneficial gut bacteria and may even help regulate blood sugar. So, if you’re going to include potatoes, enjoying them cold in a homemade potato salad with olive oil, herbs and vinegar can actually offer additional benefits.

Avoid heavily processed forms like crisps, fries from fast food chains, or any dish made with industrial oils. These options introduce inflammatory fats and additives that move your meal firmly away from the real food philosophy of Paleo.

Potatoes in an Active Lifestyle

For those who engage in high-intensity workouts, weightlifting, or endurance sports, starchy carbohydrates like potatoes can be incredibly useful for replenishing glycogen stores. The key here is timing and portion control.

Post-workout meals that include clean, fast-digesting carbs like potatoes (paired with protein) can enhance recovery and support muscle growth. This is especially helpful for Paleo athletes or CrossFitters following a cyclical low-carb or targeted ketogenic approach. Just be sure to keep an eye on how your body responds — we’re all biochemically unique.

Non-Potato Paleo Carb Alternatives

If you’re trying to reduce your intake of potatoes, there are plenty of fantastic Paleo-friendly alternatives that won’t spike your blood sugar or aggravate nightshade sensitivity. Here are a few options:

Cauliflower: Mashed, riced or roasted, this versatile veg is low in carbs and high in fibre.
Butternut pumpkin: Slightly sweet and rich in vitamins, it works well roasted or mashed.
Parsnips: A root vegetable with a slightly nutty flavour that roasts beautifully.
Turnips: Lower in carbs and with a unique taste, turnips are great in soups or stews.
Carrots: Slightly higher in carbs, but packed with nutrients and suitable for roasting, mashing or spiralising.

These options offer variety while keeping you aligned with your Paleo goals. They also introduce different vitamins and minerals into your diet, which supports overall nutritional diversity.

When to Reintroduce Potatoes

If you're currently following a stricter Paleo protocol such as AIP (Autoimmune Protocol) or Whole30, potatoes are typically excluded. However, once you've eliminated potential problem foods and have a better understanding of how your body reacts, you can experiment with reintroducing them.

Start with small amounts of peeled, well-cooked organic white potatoes and monitor how you feel. Watch for any changes in digestion, energy levels, skin clarity, or joint discomfort. If no adverse effects occur, potatoes might just be a fine addition to your version of Paleo living — especially if you’re metabolically healthy and physically active.

The Takeaway on Potatoes and Paleo

At the end of the day, Paleo is not a rigid rulebook — it’s a framework for eating real, nutrient-dense foods that work for your body. While white potatoes may not be “strictly” Paleo, they can be a functional and enjoyable food choice for many people. It all depends on your health goals, activity level, metabolic condition, and personal preference.

Listen to your body, experiment mindfully, and stay open to adjusting your approach as you go. That’s what makes the Paleo lifestyle sustainable — and effective — in the long run.

🥔 Do you eat potatoes on your Paleo journey? Have you noticed a difference in how your body responds to sweet potatoes vs white potatoes? Share your thoughts in the comments below — I’d love to hear your experience!

Is It Paleo?

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I'm sure, like me, you've seen lots of question on Paleo forums, asking if a particular processed food is Paleo. Perhaps friends, inspired by your positive changes, are making similar nutritional moves themselves –asking for your guidance on what is and isn't “Paleo” along the way.

A Return to SAD Foods?

The food raising the question generally seems to be some kind of snack or sauce, perhaps a nod towards the person’s previous SAD diet. Often the first ingredient is arguably “Paleo”, perhaps some kind of meat, vegetable – or as it often the case in processed foods – water. But the further down the list you go, the ingredients become less and less agreeable. There is often some form of sugar or sweeteners, preservatives, stabilisers, my favourite “natural flavours” – which really could mean just about anything – and perhaps the catch all “spices”. So maybe there isn't a lot of wheat; but not a lot is still some wheat! Things like gluten seem to linger in the body for a long time, so complete abstinence makes a lot of sense – there’s no such thing as low-gluten.

The other issue is that nutritional information panels don’t display the quality of the ingredients. If they don’t specify that the beef is organic and grass-fed – I think we can assume it almost certainly is not. Would you have bought the ingredients yourself – and if not, why are they suddenly acceptable just because they’re in a packet or bottle?

Unless you've made something, from ingredients you've sourced and understand; can you ever really know what you’re eating?

No Time?

Processed foods are, no doubt, easier, quicker and cheaper. That’s surely part of the reason we’re in this nutritional mess in the first place. As with lots of things in life, the best things generally aren't the easiest things! Yes, you can buy mayonnaise for a few dollars and use it instantly – or you can invest time and make your own Paleo Mayonnaise knowing exactly what you’re eating – and what you’re not. I know which I’d rather.

I often wonder whether the person asking the question is hoping to gain approval to revert, at least in part, to their old pre-Paleo ways. Whilst some processed foods are clearly a lot more Paleo-friendly than others, I do wonder where to draw the line. If you “allow” a mass-produced tomato sauce with a few dubious ingredients – perhaps that canned chicken soup doesn't look so bad?

So, is it Paleo?

Almost everything I buy doesn't have a nutritional label. Meat from the butcher, eggs and vegetables generally don’t come in packets with nutritional information – and if they do, they are the only ingredient – or I don’t buy it. The only exceptions in my supermarket trolley that I can think of are coconut milk (if I could grow my own, I would!) and nut butters, which I very rarely use.

As a general rule, I think it’s fair to say; if you have to ask, it isn't Paleo!

Decoding the Ingredients List

Learning to read ingredients lists is a skill worth developing if you're serious about sticking to a Paleo approach. The most deceptive products are often marketed as “natural” or “healthy,” yet are packed with hidden nasties. Even “organic” products can include preservatives or sweeteners that don’t align with a Paleo lifestyle. Always start by checking how many ingredients are listed – and if there’s anything you wouldn’t cook with at home, put it back on the shelf.

Keep an eye out for alternative names for sugar, such as maltodextrin, glucose syrup, rice syrup, agave nectar, or evaporated cane juice. These are all refined and processed, even when dressed up with more wholesome-sounding names. Likewise, look for hidden sources of gluten like malt extract, hydrolysed wheat protein, or anything containing the word “barley” or “rye.”

Marketing Gimmicks and Greenwashing

Just because something is labelled “gluten free,” “low carb,” or “paleo-inspired” doesn’t mean it’s actually Paleo. Food marketers are savvy and know that slapping a few buzzwords on the packaging can appeal to health-conscious consumers. “Keto-friendly” doesn’t mean grain-free. “Dairy free” doesn’t mean it’s made from clean, recognisable ingredients. And “all natural” could still mean full of seed oils and preservatives.

True Paleo eating isn’t about following trends – it’s about opting for real, whole, unprocessed food. The moment something has to be shelf-stable for 12 months, you can bet something unnatural has been added. Make it a habit to ignore the front of the label entirely and flip straight to the ingredients list on the back. That’s where the truth lies.

Reframing Convenience

It’s easy to associate convenience with packaging – but what if you reframe convenience as preparation? If you batch cook on a Sunday and fill your fridge with roast veggies, boiled eggs, grilled chicken, and a jar of homemade sauce, you’ve made your weekday choices easier, healthier, and cheaper. That’s real convenience.

Having a few Paleo staples on hand means you’ll be less likely to reach for the bottled dressing or pre-packaged protein bar. A few minutes of planning each week can eliminate the need to compromise on quality just because you’re short on time.

The Slippery Slope of “Just This Once”

Perhaps the biggest risk with borderline processed foods is not what they contain – but what they represent. It’s easy to rationalise one small deviation, especially when it feels like a minor indulgence. But what starts as a “once off” treat can subtly lead back to old habits. The psychological effect of reintroducing packaged foods often snowballs faster than you think.

This doesn’t mean perfection is the only way forward. Life will always present moments when you have to make the best possible choice, not the perfect one. But the more honest you are with yourself about those decisions, the easier it becomes to stay intentional about your food choices.

Home-Made Alternatives That Taste Better

If you're tempted by a store-bought version of something you used to love, try making your own Paleo-friendly alternative instead. You’ll be surprised how easy it is to create versions of your favourites that taste better, nourish your body, and skip all the dodgy additives.

Craving tomato sauce? Simmer diced tomatoes, garlic, and herbs in olive oil. Blend until smooth.
Need mayo? Whisk egg yolks, lemon juice, and avocado oil until thick and creamy.
Want something sweet? Try a date and nut bar made with a food processor and five clean ingredients.

Most of the time, these homemade versions store well in the fridge and last several days. Plus, you’ll know exactly what’s in them – and what isn’t.

Social Situations and Shared Meals

One of the most common times processed foods sneak in is during shared meals or social events. You may not want to be “that person” reading every label at a friend’s barbecue or questioning ingredients at a dinner party. But there are respectful ways to honour your health without being awkward.

Bringing your own dish to share, politely declining mystery sauces, or eating beforehand are all viable options. If you do choose to eat something questionable, be honest with yourself about the choice and accept any consequences – whether it’s digestive discomfort or a temporary slip in energy. Awareness matters more than rigid rules.

Finding the Grey Area

Not everything is black and white, and not every Paleo enthusiast agrees on every ingredient. Some people tolerate small amounts of dark chocolate or raw honey. Others occasionally use almond flour baked goods or coconut aminos. The key is to find a balance that works for you while still staying as close to unprocessed, natural foods as possible.

If a product contains one or two borderline ingredients that you recognise, tolerate well, and don’t use often, it may be something you’re okay including occasionally. But if you find yourself justifying choices frequently, it might be time to reassess and simplify.

Building Your Own Standards

The Paleo label isn’t a pass or fail test. It’s a template to build your own standards around food. Start by asking: Does this food support my health? Will it nourish me or inflame me? Is it made from real ingredients I recognise and trust?

Once you develop your own non-negotiables, it becomes easier to shop, cook, and eat with confidence. For some, that might mean absolutely no seed oils. For others, it might mean prioritising grass-fed and pasture-raised meats. Your version of Paleo can evolve as your needs do – just make sure you’re moving forward, not back toward convenience culture.

Final Thoughts on the Paleo Litmus Test

In the end, the question “Is it Paleo?” isn’t really about the food at all – it’s about your values. Are you prioritising real nourishment, intentional living, and long-term health? If so, you’ll know what to do the next time you pick up a packet and feel unsure. The best foods rarely come in plastic. And if you have to ask? You probably already know the answer.

Are there some border-line foods that you consider Paleo? What do you buy that has an ingredients list?

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