Eat Like a Caveman - The Paleo Diet

The Paleolithic diet is based on the ancient diet of eating wild plants and animals - foods that can be hunted, fished, or collected. Foods that are included in the Paleo diet are meats (wild game and grass-fed beef), fish, vegetables, fruits, eggs, nuts, seeds, mushrooms, herbs, and spices. Included on the list of foods that should be avoided are grains, legumes, dairy products, salt, refined sugar, and processed oils. Many strength and fitness athletes claim this diet complements a high intensity training program by allowing them to recover at a greater rate. This is achieved because the Paleo diet reduces tissue inflammation by decreasing the omega-6:omega-3 ratio. This ancient diet also lowers the body's acidity, which reduces the catabolic effect acidosis has on muscles and bones.  The Paleo diet has also been found to promote anabolic muscle development by increasing the intake of branched chain amino acids. For more information, pick up The Paleo Diet for Athletes by Dr. Loren Cordain and Joe Friel.