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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!

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.

Paleofx conference seminar event expo paleo fx-min

PaleoFX

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Last weekend I had the opportunity to travel to Austin, Texas to attend the second PaleoFX conference. Three days of talks and panels on all things Paleo – surrounded by like minded people! It was good to see a few other people had also travelled to the event from outside the US.

It was especially great to see Jimmy Moore and Nora Gedgaudas, who have both been out to Australia for seminar series in the last year or two. I also got to meet Robb Wolf, Sean Croxton, Abel James and so many others.

PaleoFX 2013

Having attended the Ancestral Health Symposium, I was interested to see how this event would differ. As well as lectures, PaleoFX had a lot of panels, where a group of “Paleo experts” sat on stage and answered a wealth of questions on a particular topic. As with the Ancestral Health Symposium, up to three talks occurred simultaneously, so it wasn't possible to listen to everyone. Fortunately they are releasing videos, so it will be possible to catch up on what I missed!

The highlight for me was meeting Dr Terry Wahls and listening to her lecture. I also enjoyed Dr Cate Shanahan, who I first heard on the Paleo Summit.

PaleoFX 2013

On the ground floor was a big exhibition set up, with stalls selling all manor of Paleo products. Books I've not been able to get in Australia, jerky, kombucha, fitness products, supplements, vitamins, Paleo snacks – everything you could possibly want.

With such a big Paleo community of our own here in Australia and New Zealand, we’re really excited about the next seminar series we have in the pipeline. I’d love to hear who you would like us to invite to speak in Australia and New Zealand – and what you would like them to speak about? And which cities should the series travel to, each state capital? Please please share your thoughts in the comments below, or send me an email.

Bringing the PaleoFX Energy Back Home

After spending a weekend immersed in all things Paleo at the conference in Austin, it’s hard not to come back feeling completely energised and inspired. There’s something powerful about being surrounded by others who share a deep passion for real food, ancestral health, and questioning the status quo when it comes to nutrition and wellness.

Back in Australia, I’ve been reflecting on just how valuable these events are — not just for the content, but for the conversations, connections, and sense of momentum they create. Attending events like PaleoFX reminds us we’re part of something much bigger than ourselves: a global movement striving to reclaim health through evolutionary principles.

Key Themes Emerging in the Paleo Community

One of the most exciting aspects of this year’s conference was seeing how much the Paleo conversation has evolved. While food is still at the centre, there’s a growing focus on wider lifestyle factors — and it’s clear that this holistic approach is where the movement is heading.

  • Sleep and Circadian Rhythm: Talks explored how modern light exposure, screen use, and disrupted sleep patterns are impacting everything from hormone balance to immunity and mood.
  • Mental Health and Neuroscience: There was a strong spotlight on anxiety, depression, neuroinflammation, and how diet and lifestyle can influence brain health, not just physical wellbeing.
  • Movement Beyond Exercise: Rather than focusing on workouts alone, speakers encouraged incorporating natural movement, mobility, play, and even rest as vital elements of health.
  • Regenerative Agriculture: Soil health, sustainable farming, and food sourcing were hot topics — particularly how we as consumers can support farming practices that benefit the planet and human health.

These conversations are especially relevant here in Australia, where we have incredible potential to adopt regenerative practices, support local producers, and shape how future generations think about food and health.

Could We Host an Event Like PaleoFX Here?

Given how large and passionate the Australian Paleo and ancestral health community is, it’s not a question of if we could host something similar — but when. Events like this spark lasting change, and with the right line-up, structure, and backing, we could create an event that rivals or even exceeds what’s currently happening overseas.

Imagine a multi-day event that brings together the best of our local experts, along with a few international thought leaders, to host workshops, cooking demos, live panels, and practical sessions. Not just lectures — but hands-on experiences to help people truly integrate this lifestyle.

Potential Speakers and Topics for an Australian Summit

  • Dr Terry Wahls — with a focus on neurodegenerative disease, mitochondrial health, and autoimmune recovery through diet.
  • Nora Gedgaudas — revisiting her insights on primal mind and nutritional psychology.
  • Local voices — doctors, nutritionists, regenerative farmers, movement coaches, and those thriving on Paleo in real-world conditions.
  • Practical workshops — such as primal movement, barefoot running, cooking for families, fermentation, or ancestral fitness.

We could easily align topics with common health challenges in Australia and New Zealand — from inflammatory disease and gut health to hormone imbalances, fertility, chronic stress, and ageing well.

What I’d Like to See Next

After absorbing so much information over the PaleoFX weekend, I came away with a few big takeaways that I think should guide the next chapter of Paleo in Australia:

  • Focus on Accessibility: It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the perfectionism sometimes seen in health circles. We need to keep encouraging progress over perfection — showing people how to implement changes even on a budget, with a busy schedule, or while raising a family.
  • Community-Led Support: The more we can facilitate meetups, online groups, recipe swaps, and real-world community building, the stronger the movement will grow.
  • Education Beyond Food: Paleo isn’t just a diet — it’s a way of rethinking modern life. We need more education around sleep, stress, posture, play, natural rhythms, and how they all fit together.

With this in mind, I’ll be working behind the scenes to bring something exciting to the Paleo community here. If you’ve ever dreamed of attending a summit like this without having to fly across the world — this might be your moment.

Let’s Co-Create the Next Paleo Event

I’d love your input. If you could attend a Paleo event anywhere in Australia or New Zealand, where would it be? Which experts do you want to hear from? Would you prefer talks, workshops, or cooking demos? Would you want to attend in person or stream it online?

Please drop your thoughts in the comments or reach out via email. This event is for all of us, and your ideas could shape its direction. With enough interest and support, we can make something incredible happen right here on home soil.

Until Then — Stay Inspired

Even if you weren’t at PaleoFX this year, there are so many ways to stay connected and inspired. Revisit your favourite speakers’ blogs, follow thought leaders on social media, and keep experimenting with what works best for your body and lifestyle.

And don’t forget — real food, movement, sleep, sunshine, and community are always available. You don’t need a conference pass to live well.

Low carb down under paleo primal seminar conference event australia

Low Carb Down Under Seminar Series

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The Low Carb Down Under seminar series is selling out fast – have you booked your ticket yet?

Jimmy Moore is going to be coming to Australia from the US to talk in Melbourne, Byron Bay, Sydney, Adelaide & Brisbane in just a few weeks time.

Jimmy will be joined by lots of other speakers from the Paleo and Low Carb communities, including David Gillespie (author of “Sweet Poison”), Dr Rod Tayler, Jamie Hayes, Vicki Poulter, Dr Ron Ehrlich, Christine Cronau (author of “The Fat Revolution”), Sarah Wilson, Costa Georgiadis, Dr Anastasia Boulais, Jamie Scott and many more! The speakers and line ups vary at each location, and full details can be found on the Low Carb Down Under site.

The dates of the Low Carb Down Under seminar series are:

  • Melbourne – Saturday 17th November
  • Byron Bay – Wednesday 21st November
  • Sydney – Saturday 24th November
  • Adelaide – Tuesday 27th November
  • Brisbane – Saturday 1st December

If you're interested in health, you won't want to miss this unique seminar series! If you've got friends who've expressed an interest in your diet, these seminars would be a great way of introducing them to a healthier lifestyle, so why not bring a friend? I hope to see you at one of the events! Have you booked your ticket yet?

What to Expect at a Low Carb Down Under Seminar

If you’ve never been to a nutrition seminar before, Low Carb Down Under is an ideal introduction. These events are informative, inspiring, and packed with the latest research and real-life strategies for better health. Whether you're fully committed to a Paleo or low carb lifestyle or simply curious about reducing sugar and processed foods, the seminars provide a welcoming space to learn from experts and connect with like-minded people.

Expect to hear talks on a range of topics, from the science behind ketosis and insulin resistance to the mental health benefits of reducing carbohydrate intake. You’ll also hear personal stories from people who have successfully used a low carb or Paleo diet to reverse chronic health issues like type 2 diabetes, obesity, and inflammation-related illnesses. The mix of scientific content and practical application makes the sessions engaging, even if you’re not medically trained.

Why Events Like These Are So Important

In a world dominated by conflicting dietary advice, events like Low Carb Down Under cut through the noise. The seminar series offers evidence-based insights from doctors, nutritionists, researchers, and advocates who have dedicated their careers to improving health through ancestral nutrition. Instead of one-size-fits-all dietary advice, you’ll get targeted, practical information backed by clinical experience and scientific literature.

Many of the speakers are at the forefront of the low carb and Paleo movements in Australia and internationally. You’ll have the chance to hear directly from pioneers like Jimmy Moore, who has authored numerous books and hosts one of the world’s top low carb podcasts, and Christine Cronau, whose work in the space has helped thousands of Australians reclaim their health.

Networking and Community Support

One of the most underrated aspects of attending an in-person seminar is the opportunity to meet people who are on the same journey as you. Whether you're new to low carb or you've been following Paleo for years, connecting with others who share your values can be incredibly motivating. You might find a local support group, a new favourite food brand, or even just reassurance that you’re not alone in prioritising health in a very processed world.

For many attendees, the sense of community is just as valuable as the talks themselves. There's nothing quite like sitting in a room of people who understand why you skip the breadbasket and ask for extra avocado. These events often lead to long-term friendships, collaborations, and supportive networks — especially in cities where Paleo or low carb options are limited.

Great for Health Professionals Too

If you’re a nutritionist, GP, health coach, or allied health practitioner, attending Low Carb Down Under can also count towards your professional development. The seminar provides current, research-backed knowledge that you can pass on to clients or patients. Plus, it’s a great way to stay up to date with emerging science and hear firsthand how other professionals are applying low carb principles in clinical settings.

With an increasing number of patients asking about ketogenic diets, intermittent fasting, and insulin resistance, this seminar equips you with the tools and confidence to provide sound guidance — and perhaps even reconsider your own approach to nutrition and metabolic health.

Practical Takeaways You Can Implement Straight Away

The best part of Low Carb Down Under is how actionable it is. You won’t just walk away with academic theory — you’ll also get real-world tips, product recommendations, and cooking ideas. Many of the speakers share meal plans, shopping lists, and simple changes that can make a big difference to your energy, weight, and overall wellbeing.

You’ll also discover brands, products, and services that support your lifestyle. From bone broth to clean protein powders and sugar-free snacks, the event often features local vendors and companies that align with the low carb ethos. It’s a great way to discover alternatives you might not find in mainstream supermarkets.

Bringing Friends and Family

Do you have a friend or family member who’s always asking questions about your Paleo lifestyle? Bringing them to one of these seminars could be the eye-opener they need. Hearing from respected doctors and authors often makes a bigger impact than hearing the same message from someone close to them. It might just be the catalyst for someone you love to make lasting changes in their own health.

The presentations are delivered in a clear, accessible format, so even someone with no nutrition background will walk away feeling empowered and informed. This makes it a perfect event for sceptics or the simply curious — especially with speakers like David Gillespie and Sarah Wilson, who are both fantastic at breaking down complex topics into relatable insights.

How to Prepare for the Event

To get the most from the day, come prepared. Bring a notebook or device for taking notes, wear comfortable clothing, and bring a refillable water bottle. If the event includes vendor stalls or catering, make sure to check in advance whether food is included or if you’ll need to bring your own.

You may also want to jot down questions ahead of time. Most seminars include a Q&A session with the speakers, and it’s a great opportunity to get personalised advice or clarification on something you’ve been wondering about. Don’t be shy — the speakers are passionate about helping people improve their health and welcome thoughtful questions.

Final Word

Whether you’re looking to dive deeper into low carb science, connect with like-minded people, or simply stay motivated on your health journey, the Low Carb Down Under seminar series is a fantastic event. With so many experts in one place and a welcoming community atmosphere, you’ll walk away informed, inspired, and ready to take your health to the next level.

With events across Australia and tickets selling quickly, now is the time to secure your spot. This could be the turning point that renews your commitment to a healthier lifestyle — or introduces someone you care about to the benefits of living low carb. Don’t miss out!

Food & Health as Evolution Intended Nora Gedgaudas conference event paleo primal australia tour-min

Food & Health as Evolution Intended – Nora Gedgaudas

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Yesterday I went to Nourishing Australia’s “Food & Health as Evolution Intended” seminar.  The seminar was held at the University of New South Wales in Sydney and featured five lectures by Nora Gedgaudas, and lectures by Bruce Ward on naturally grazing animals and Costa Georgiadis on the importance of where food comes from.

I’d heard Nora Gedgaudas speak at the Ancestral Health Symposium in August and really enjoyed her talk – it was just 45 minutes though, so the opportunity to hear her talk for a whole day, in my own city, was too good to miss.

meeting Nora Gedgaudas in Sydney

I was so pleased to see such a full lecture theatre yesterday.  The audience was a very varied mix of medical professionals, nutritionists, as well as people who had only recently heard about Paleo.  There were also a few familiar faces from the Sydney Paleo meet-up group.

Nora Gedgaudas Sydney

As much as I enjoyed the AHS in August, food wasn't included, and being on the UCLA campus good Paleo food wasn’t on hand.  At yesterdays seminar however, the event was catered and the food was fantastic.  Agape Organic Restaurant provided all of the beautiful food yesterday.  Whilst the food was organic and sourced locally, it wasn’t Paleo as it included a bit of dairy, quinoa, corn chips (!) and some sweetened dressings.  It was fairly easy to avoid these elements though and the good sized portion of beef and chicken at lunch was very satiating.

The seminar started with an overview of where we have come from and the food we evolved eating.   The other topics covered included fats and carbohydrates; grains, the link between nutrition & mental health & primal fitness.  The key messages I got from the conference concerned insulin and blood sugar.  Reducing the insulin requirements – by controlling blood sugar appears to be crucial in so many aspects of our health and longevity.  Gluten was also spoken about frequently – and I’m now going to be a lot more cautious to ensure I completely avoid it, especially when I’m eating out.

I really enjoy listening to Nora Gedgaudas, as she is a great speaker who has the ability to put across complex science and theories in a very accessible way.

If you’re in Australia and missed the Sydney seminar, they are going to be in Armidale on the 16th November and the Gold Coast on the 19th November; so it’s not too late to book!

nora_gedgaudas_sydney

Morning tea: Pumpkin, spinach and basil frittata, Ham, tomato and cheddar frittata. Salmon, pear, chilli, chive & quinoa tatare Corn chips Wagu & pork meatball & Cherry tomato relish

Nora Gedgaudas Sydney

Lunch: Grass fed wagu beef, Roast chicken

nora_gedgaudas_sydney

Lunch: Roasted Vegetable & Honey mustard dressing salad Broccoli, daikon, carrot, zucchini, adzuki & miso sesame dressing salad Beetroot, parsley, sultana & honey yoghurt dressing Spiced poached pear & cream

PrimalCon

7,497 Miles to PrimalCon

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One of the highlights of 2011 so far was the weekend I went to PrimalCon 2011 in California in April.  I enjoyed it so much, that I booked my ticket for the 2012 event as soon as the tickets went on sale this morning.

Sunset at PrimalCon-min

Sunset at PrimalCon

I hadn't realised quite how far America was from Australia when I booked this year.  I went at quite short notice and used my air miles, so didn't pay too much attention to minor details like flight times.  I was trying to minimise time off work, so I left Australia on the Friday and flew back on the Sunday night.  This was a big mistake!  I now know very well that Los Angeles is a very long 14 hour 7,497 mile flight from Sydney.  To make matters worse, as I used my air miles, I was assigned a very impressive route of Sydney to Brisbane, a night in Brisbane, a flight from Brisbane to Melbourne, then finally I got on my international flight at Melbourne!

It was all for the best however, as I met a wonderful new friend on the flight to LA, who was also attending PrimalCon (with just two people going from Australia, what were the chances of us being on the same flight?)

I'm planning to make PrimalCon 2012 into a much more sensible length America trip, especially as it falls the weekend after Easter.

I made some lifelong Primal friends in April, in fact, I spent a wonderful week in Texas with two of my PrimalCon friends, and met up with some others at the AHS in August.  I'm really looking forward to catching up with them and making some more Primal friends.

Over the whole weekend, the food was incredible.  So much was local Californian produce and it was great to have things like Kale and Turkey, which I find so difficult to find here in Australia (if you know of any good sources here, please let me know in the comments!)

One of my highlights from the weekend was the running workshop with Barefoot Ted.   I learnt so much from him and my running style has changed forever.  In fact, it was his workshop that inspired me to buy my Vibrams!  I'm thrilled to see Barefoot Ted is back again for next year’s event – hopefully I can refine my technique further still.
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Erwan Le Corre is a new presenter for the 2012 event.  I really enjoyed his talk and demonstration on MovNat at the AHS this year, and to have the opportunity to have a small group workshop with the guy who does this is incredibly exciting!

I just received my latest Amazon book order of Exuberant Animal by Frank Forencich yesterday – so couldn't believe it when I read Frank Forencich is also a presenter at PrimalCon!  I’d better get started on his book…

Hopefully we'll be able to get Mark Sisson over to Australia/ New Zealand in the near future, but in the meantime…  anyone else coming to PrimalCon with me?

Gluten Free Expo Conference Paleo Event

Exploring the Sydney Gluten Free Expo

I went along to the Gluten Free Expo yesterday, at the Sydney Showground.

Gluten Free Expo Conference Paleo Event

I'm not sure why now, but I expected it to be very Paleo friendly and full of Vibram clad feet. Surely going completely grain free would be the natural conclusion for those with Coeliac disease? Ditching the bread and refined carbs in favour of real, whole food?

The Gluten Free event was sponsored by Coles and the stands were almost all offering packaged, processed food. Crisps, pasta, processed meats, ready meals, breakfast cereals, cakes and sweets. They all seemed to have removed gluten and replaced it with more sugar, other grains and lots of chemicals. I studied the ingredients on every stand and managed to find one little jar of spices, that would get the Paleo seal of approval! One product!

Gluten Free expo

Perhaps a Paleo stand at next year's expo beckons!

Going Gluten Free?

It's well worth trying to remove Gluten from your diet. So many people don't tolerate it well, without being full-blown Coeliac. When constantly exposed to Gluten, it's hard to even realise what impact it has on your body. It isn't until all traces of Gluten are out of your system that you can begin to understand how it affects you.

Gluten intolerance seems to be strongly correlated with inflammation issues such as IBS, diabetes, heart disease, obesity, cancer, autoimmune diseases, HD, ADD, ADHS, Autism, indigestion, stomach complaints and many other health complaints.

Gluten Free Does Not Mean Healthy

One of the most surprising aspects of the Gluten Free Expo was how overwhelmingly processed the food offerings were. While these products technically omit gluten, they often replace it with corn starch, rice flour, potato starch and other highly refined, high-glycaemic fillers. Add in artificial colours, preservatives, seed oils and excessive sugars, and you’ve got a product that’s arguably worse than the gluten-containing version it replaces.

It’s easy to be lulled into a false sense of security when something is labelled “gluten free.” Many people assume that removing gluten automatically makes a food healthier — but in reality, it often means simply replacing one problematic ingredient with several others. If you’ve switched from white bread to gluten-free white bread, the net health impact is minimal unless you’ve made broader changes to your overall diet.

Why Paleo is the Logical Next Step

For those with Coeliac disease or gluten sensitivity, removing gluten is essential. But instead of filling that void with processed replacements, embracing a Paleo approach — based on whole, nutrient-dense foods — offers far greater long-term benefits. Paleo naturally avoids gluten not just from wheat, but from barley, rye and contaminated oats as well. Instead of replacing bread with “gluten free bread,” Paleo simply swaps the entire category for vegetables, meats, eggs, nuts and seeds.

The benefits of going Paleo when giving up gluten include:

  • Improved gut health: Whole foods support the microbiome and reduce intestinal permeability.
  • Steady energy: No more sugar crashes from starchy gluten-free replacements.
  • Better nutrient absorption: Avoiding grain-based inhibitors like phytic acid allows for more efficient mineral uptake.
  • Weight stability: Paleo foods help regulate hunger hormones and reduce overeating.

Once gluten is removed, it becomes easier to identify how other food categories — like seed oils or refined sugar — might be impacting your wellbeing too.

Hidden Gluten-Free Pitfalls to Watch Out For

While gluten-free products may seem like the easy answer, they come with several hidden pitfalls. Many “free-from” foods are still ultra-processed and devoid of meaningful nutrition. It’s not uncommon to see ingredient panels that rival those of standard junk food — just with the gluten removed.

Here are a few common traps:

  • Gluten-free cereals: Often loaded with added sugar and high-glycaemic fillers that spike blood sugar and offer no satiety.
  • Gluten-free snacks: Biscuits, crackers and granola bars tend to use refined seed oils and processed starches.
  • Gluten-free baking mixes: Many contain gums, stabilisers and other synthetic additives to mimic gluten’s texture.

Instead of relying on boxed alternatives, building meals around meat, seafood, eggs, vegetables and healthy fats offers a far more reliable path to healing and sustained energy.

Why Inflammation Is the Bigger Issue

For those with non-Coeliac gluten sensitivity or autoimmune issues, inflammation is often the true underlying problem. Gluten is just one trigger in a long list of modern dietary irritants. Grains, legumes, seed oils and refined sugars all contribute to systemic inflammation that can aggravate everything from skin conditions to mental health disorders.

The Paleo approach focuses not only on what to remove (gluten, grains, dairy, etc.) but also on what to include — such as anti-inflammatory foods like bone broth, leafy greens, omega-3-rich seafood, turmeric and fermented vegetables. These help to calm the immune system and promote healing from the inside out.

The Marketing Machine Behind Gluten-Free

The rise in gluten-free products has been driven largely by consumer demand — but unfortunately, the market is flooded with products designed more for profit than for health. Gluten-free food is often priced higher, despite offering poorer nutrition. Most products are heavily marketed with vague health promises, but a “gluten free” label says nothing about the overall quality or sourcing of the ingredients.

A box of sugary cornflake cereal can still legally be labelled gluten free. So can a packet of rice noodles, a bottle of salad dressing made with canola oil, or ultra-processed protein bars. The label alone isn’t enough — it’s the ingredient list that tells the true story.

How to Go Gluten-Free the Paleo Way

Transitioning to a gluten-free lifestyle doesn’t have to mean relying on processed replacements. Here’s how to do it the Paleo way:

  • Focus on protein: Build meals around animal proteins like chicken, lamb, beef, eggs and seafood.
  • Prioritise plants: Non-starchy vegetables should make up the bulk of your plate — think leafy greens, cauliflower, zucchini and carrots.
  • Add healthy fats: Avocados, olive oil, coconut oil, ghee and animal fats support hormones and brain function.
  • Snack smarter: Instead of crackers or chips, opt for boiled eggs, sliced meat, olives or a handful of nuts.
  • Prep ahead: Having leftovers or pre-made meals reduces the temptation to reach for processed convenience foods.

This style of eating isn’t just about removing gluten — it’s about removing all the additives, fillers and empty calories that usually come with it.

Should Paleo Be Represented at Future Gluten-Free Events?

After seeing the heavy emphasis on commercial products at the expo, it’s clear that Paleo principles are underrepresented. A Paleo stand could offer attendees a very different message: that gluten-free eating doesn’t have to mean embracing chemical-laden “substitutes,” and that a return to simple, whole ingredients is the most healing option of all.

Cooking demonstrations, talks about anti-inflammatory nutrition, and tastings of real, grain-free meals could all help bridge the gap between gluten-free and genuinely healthy. For many Coeliacs and gluten-sensitive individuals, discovering Paleo might be the missing piece that finally helps them feel well again.

Final Thoughts: Go Beyond Gluten-Free

Eliminating gluten is an excellent first step, especially for those struggling with digestion, skin issues, fatigue or autoimmune concerns. But stopping at gluten-free pasta and muffins won’t give you the full benefit of dietary change. Going Paleo allows you to remove not just gluten, but the full spectrum of problematic modern foods — and replace them with nutrient-dense, healing alternatives.

The next time you see a gluten-free label, ask yourself: is this real food? And better yet — how can I make something even better at home with whole ingredients?

It’s time to move beyond “gluten free” as a marketing buzzword and reclaim it as part of a broader return to real food and vibrant health.

If you're looking to go Gluten Free, the Whole30 is a great program to use to kick this off with! I haven't ever heard of anyone regretting going Gluten Free!