Paleo and Protein

As hunter-gatherers, humans from the Paleolithic era would hunt for their protein. Animals provided the main protein source while wild plants supplied carbohydrates and fats. The contemporary approach to the Paleo nutrition program still follows the “hunter-gatherer” approach for consuming animal-based proteins along with wild plants–fruits and vegetables–to complement protein intake.

Types of protein

A wide variety of protein sources are acceptable on the Paleo diet. Lean cuts of red meat such as flank steak, sirloin, lean hamburger and chuck roast are recommended. Fish and seafood such as salmon and tuna are also recommended and provide additional healthy omega fatty acids. Other recommended types of protein include eggs, chicken and turkey. The goal of the Paleo diet is to consume a variety of protein to supply adequate amounts of amino acids

Pale0 guidelines follow a general principle of not consuming foods containing artificial ingredients, fillers, preservatives, hormones or steroids. The goal for choosing protein on the Paleo diet is to look for grass-fed protein as opposed to grain-fed protein. Consuming grass-fed protein has numerous advantages over grain-fed protein. Grass-fed beef, for example, has been shown to contain a lower amount of fat than grain-fed beef.

The Paleo program recommends that protein contribute 20 to 35 percent of total calories, with 20 to 40 percent coming from carbohydrates and 30 percent from fat. This protein amount is higher than the normal Western diet and has several health benefits. According to Dr. Loren Cordain, professor at Colorado State University, lean protein is more satiating than fat and carbohydrates, resulting in a full feeling after eating. Also, protein has two to three times the thermic effect as carbohydrates and fat, causing an increase in metabolism.

Protein supplements are popular among workout enthusiasts for additional protein after a training session. Most protein supplements, however, contain artificial sweeteners and preservatives. These added ingredients put protein supplements at odds with a strict Paleo program. At times, athletes require additional protein to support their active lifestyles, and protein supplements can be used sparingly for post-workout nutrition.