The Paleo Diet has generated a lot of recent media interest, with some high-profile followers. The diet has been promoted as a ‘breakthrough nutrition program’ and is based on eating a diet similar to that of our Paleolithic ancestors. But does this diet have any merit, or is it simply another fad?
The Dietitians Association of Australia does not support the diet, as its recommendations are not in line with those of the Dietary Guidelines for Australians. While the Paleo Diet has some good features (such as promoting fruit and vegetables, lean meat and fish), it excludes nutritious core foods such as breads and cereals, and dairy foods.
DAA is concerned that the Paleo Diet encourages restrictive eating – an approach that is not sustainable in the long-term. And by banning certain nutritious foods, followers of the diet will be at a greater risk of falling short on important nutrients, such as calcium. Like many fad diets, the Paleo Diet, is no substitute for expert, individual dietary advice from an Accredietd Practising Dietitian.
DAA recommends Australians eat a diet that:
- Includes a wide variety of nutritious foods from all food groups
- Meets their individual nutritional and health needs
- Is sustainable in the long-term
- Fits with their lifestyle
For info: http://daa.asn.au/for-the-media/hot-topics-in-nutrition/the-paleo-diet/
