By Sarah Dallins,
Project Weight Loss Editor - Diet
January 15, 2008Also known as the Paleo diet, the Caveman diet, the Paleolithic diet, the Prehistoric diet, or the Hunter-Gatherer diet, the Stone Age diet is based on the theory that modern human genes were influenced by life conditions for a million years before the advent of agriculture.
The principle of the Stone Age diet is based on the “natural selection”, a process of change that allows an animal to adapt its metabolism and physiology to lifestyle changes. However, this process lasts for up to two million years and some researchers believe that genetically, we are nearly identical to humans before the introduction of agriculture. The introduction of agriculture took place 10,000 years ago, not long enough in order to make genetic changes, and that is why people are more suited hunter-gatherer foods.
Pursuant to the Stone Age diet, dieters should consume eggs, meat, seafood including fish and shellfish, fruits, seeds, vegetables, nuts, root vegetable, insects, herbs and spices, and natural sugars such as honey, date sugar, or maple sugar. Dieters should consume only those vegetables that can be eaten raw.
Those who want to follow the Stone Age diet should avoid grains, separated fats and oils, vegetables such as potatoes, parsnips, sweet potatoes, tapioca, or yam, juices, coffee, sodas, peanuts, peas, tofu, flour, beans, cashews, soy milk, foods that contain yeast, processed meats, alcohol, dairy products, or salt.
When it comes to the Stone Age diet, the scientists` opinions are divided. While some tend to consider the arguments behind this diet as valid, others are more sceptical and think that the theory is too simplified. However, dieters should ask for a specialist's advice before starting a diet or a weight loss program.
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