Top 7 Benefits of the Paleo Diet

The paleo diet depends on following a high-protein, low-carb plan based on the theory that our early ancestors didn’t have all the health problems we have today such as obesity, heart problems, and diabetes. The paleo diet provides many benefits including weight loss and improving heart health. Here are the top 7 benefits of the paleo diet.

7. Weight Loss

The paleo diet depends on consuming nutrient-rich, high-protein foods while avoiding processed foods that may cause weight gain. Eating high-protein foods increases the sense of fullness so that you don’t feel hungry for longer, which leads to weight loss. Studies show that people on the paleo diet lose weight significantly. (1, 2, 3, 4)

6. Improves Heart Health

Heart problems are one of the most common causes of death worldwide. Studies suggest that the paleo diet can lower the risk factors for heart problems significantly. Also, it reduces LDL, the bad cholesterol while increasing HDL, the good cholesterol. (5, 6, 7)

5. Aids in Blood Sugar Control

Studies show that the paleo diet can be effective in reducing blood sugar levels and enhancing insulin sensitivity, especially in type 2 diabetic patients. Increasing insulin sensitivity is associated with controlling blood sugar. (8, 9, 10)

4. Produces Lean Muscles

The paleo diet depends mainly on proteins. Eating high amounts of proteins is associated with maintaining muscle mass and increasing muscle growth, especially if you exercise. In addition, increasing protein intake preserves your muscle mass while losing weight. (11, 12, 13, 14, 15)

3. Promotes Bone Health

Some people think that animal proteins are bad for bones. However, this is a common myth. Studies show that people who depend on animal proteins in their diet have better bones as they age and have lower risks for fractures and osteoporosis. (16, 17, 18, 19, 20)

2. Boosts Metabolism and Fat Burning

The paleo diet relies on proteins, which have a higher thermic effect (calories used to process food) than fats and carbs. Studies also show that high protein intake boosts metabolism and increases calories burning more than fats and carbs. (21, 22, 23, 24, 25)

1. Lowers High Blood Pressure

The paleo diet makes you avoid processed foods which are associated with high blood pressure, strokes, heart attacks, and chronic kidney disease. In addition, studies show that high protein intake decreases blood pressure significantly. (26)