Paleo diet and weight loss

The first controlled study (Lund University in Sweden) of a Paleolithic diet in humans (lean meat, fish, fruit, vegetables, root vegetables and nuts, avoiding grains, dairy foods and salt) vs a Mediterranean-like prudent diet (with whole-grain cereals, low-fat dairy products, fruit, vegetables and refined fats) — reveals that the former diet is healthier. (Surprise, surprise…)

The research group concludes that something more than caloric intake and weight loss was responsible for the improved handling of dietary carbohydrate (i.e., better glucose tolerance). The main difference between the groups was a much lower intake of grains and dairy products and a higher fruit intake in the Paleolithic group. Substances in grains and dairy products have been shown to interfere with the metabolism of carbohydrates and fat in various studies.

Bottom line: Avoid dairy, limit grains, and stick with vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts and seeds. Limit total intake of animal product to 10% of calories.