Introduction to the Paleo Diet

The Paleo Diet focuses on whole, unprocessed foods like vegetables, nuts, seeds, and lean meats. This dietary approach may benefit your overall health and reduce your risk of certain health conditions, including obesity.

Designed to resemble the eating habits of our hunter-gatherer ancestors from thousands of years ago, the Paleo Diet emphasizes foods that humans likely consumed before the advent of agriculture.

Although it's impossible to know exactly what ancient humans ate in different parts of the world, researchers believe their diets were rich in whole foods and devoid of modern processed ingredients. By following a diet centered on whole foods and leading physically active lives, hunter-gatherers presumably had much lower rates of lifestyle diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.

Adopting the Paleo Diet may lead to significant weight loss without the need for calorie counting and can result in major health improvements. Anthropologists also speculate that this way of eating influenced anatomical and physiological changes in humans, including increased brain size and reduced gastrointestinal tract size (source).

This article provides a basic introduction to the Paleo Diet, offering a simple meal plan and other essential information to help you get started.

Crafting Your Paleo Diet Meal Plan: Foods to Enjoy and Foods to Avoid

Paleolithic humans thrived on a variety of diets depending on what was available in their environment. Some consumed low-carb diets rich in animal foods, while others followed high-carb diets abundant in plants (source). While insects were a part of some ancient diets, you'll be glad to know that this isn't included in today's modern interpretation of the Paleo diet!

Foods to Include in Your Paleo Diet

The Paleo diet emphasizes whole, unprocessed foods that our ancestors might have eaten. Here's a list of nourishing foods to fill your plate with (source):

• Unprocessed Meats: Beef, lamb, chicken, turkey, pork
• Fish and Seafood: Salmon, trout, haddock, shrimp (opt for wild-caught when possible)
• Eggs: Free-range, pastured, or omega-3 enriched eggs
• Vegetables: Broccoli, kale, bell peppers, onions, carrots, tomatoes, and more
• Fruits: Apples, bananas, oranges, pears, avocados, berries
• Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, macadamia nuts, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds
• Herbs and Spices: Garlic, turmeric, rosemary, basil, and other natural seasonings
• Healthy Fats and Oils: Extra virgin olive oil, coconut oil, avocado oil

Foods to Avoid on the Paleo Diet

To stay true to the Paleo lifestyle, it's best to steer clear of the following:

• Processed Foods: Anything labeled "diet" or "low-fat," artificial meal replacements
• Added Sugars: Soft drinks, fruit juices, candies, pastries, ice cream
• Artificial Sweeteners: Aspartame, sucralose, saccharin, and other artificial sweeteners
• Grains: Bread, pasta, wheat, barley, rye, and other grain-based foods

Foods to Limit

Some foods aren't strictly Paleo but can be included in moderation, depending on your personal preferences:

• Grains: If you choose to include them, opt for gluten-free options like rice or quinoa
• Most Dairy Products: Especially low-fat dairy; some Paleo followers include full-fat, grass-fed butter and cheese
• Legumes: Beans, lentils, peanuts, and peas are generally avoided but may be included in some modern adaptations

Remember, these guidelines aren't set in stone. You can adapt the Paleo diet to suit your individual needs and preferences. The key is focusing on whole, unprocessed foods and minimizing processed items.

Summary

Paleolithic humans' diets varied greatly based on their location and the resources available to them. The fundamental principle of the Paleo diet is to eat whole, natural foods and avoid processed ones. By embracing this approach, you can create a meal plan that not only aligns with ancestral eating habits but also supports your modern health goals.

Foods to Avoid on the Paleo Diet

To fully embrace the Paleo diet and reap its potential health benefits, it's essential to know which foods to exclude. The primary goal is to eliminate items that our hunter-gatherer ancestors wouldn't have consumed. Here's a detailed list of foods to avoid:

1. Sugars and High-Fructose Corn Syrup

• Examples: Soft drinks, fruit juices, table sugar, candy, pastries, ice cream.
• Why Avoid: These sweeteners can lead to blood sugar spikes, weight gain, and increased risk of chronic diseases.

2. Grains

• Examples: Bread, pasta, wheat, cereal, spelt, rye, barley.
• Why Avoid: Grains contain gluten and antinutrients like lectins and phytates, which may cause digestive issues and inhibit nutrient absorption.

3. Legumes

• Examples: Beans, lentils, peanuts, soy products.
• Why Avoid: Legumes also contain antinutrients and were not part of the Paleolithic diet.

4. Dairy Products

• Examples: Especially low-fat dairy like skim milk, low-fat yogurt.
• Why Avoid: Many Paleo followers believe that dairy was not consumed during the Paleolithic era. However, some versions of the diet include full-fat, grass-fed butter and cheese.

5. Certain Vegetable Oils

• Examples: Soybean oil, sunflower oil, cottonseed oil, corn oil, grapeseed oil, safflower oil.
• Why Avoid: These oils are highly processed and high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can promote inflammation when consumed in excess.

6. Artificial Sweeteners

• Examples: Aspartame, sucralose, cyclamates, saccharin, acesulfame potassium.
• Why Avoid: They may negatively affect metabolism and gut health. Opt for natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup in moderation.

7. Highly Processed Foods

• Examples: Anything labeled "diet" or "low-fat," artificial meal replacements, foods with many additives.
• Why Avoid: These products often contain preservatives, artificial colors, and flavors that can be harmful to your health.

Simple Guideline: If it looks like it was made in a factory, it's best to avoid it!

To successfully eliminate these ingredients, make it a habit to read ingredient lists and nutrition labels carefully—even on products marketed as "health foods."

Summary

Avoiding processed foods and certain modern ingredients is a cornerstone of the Paleo diet. By eliminating items like sugar, grains, specific vegetable oils, and artificial sweeteners, you align your eating habits more closely with those of our ancestors, potentially improving your health and well-being.

By understanding which foods to avoid, you're one step closer to successfully adopting the Paleo lifestyle. Next, we'll explore the delicious and nourishing foods you can enjoy on this diet!

Foods to Eat on the Paleo Diet

Embarking on the Paleo diet opens up a world of nutritious, whole foods that are both delicious and satisfying. The focus is on natural, unprocessed items that our ancestors might have consumed. Here's a comprehensive list of foods you can enjoy:

1. Meat

• Examples: Beef, lamb, chicken, turkey, pork.
• Tip: Opt for lean cuts and consider grass-fed or pasture-raised options for higher nutrient content.

2. Fish and Seafood

• Examples: Salmon, trout, haddock, shrimp, shellfish.
• Tip: Choose wild-caught seafood when possible to reduce exposure to pollutants and increase omega-3 fatty acids intake.

3. Eggs

• Examples: Free-range, pastured, or omega-3 enriched eggs.
• Tip: Eggs are a versatile protein source that can be prepared in numerous ways to keep your meals exciting.

4. Vegetables

• Examples: Broccoli, kale, bell peppers, onions, carrots, tomatoes, spinach.
• Tip: Incorporate a colorful variety of vegetables to ensure a wide range of nutrients and antioxidants.

5. Fruits

• Examples: Apples, bananas, oranges, pears, avocados, strawberries, blueberries.
• Tip: Berries are particularly high in antioxidants and lower in sugar compared to other fruits.

6. Tubers

• Examples: Potatoes, sweet potatoes, yams, turnips.
• Tip: These starchy vegetables provide healthy carbohydrates and fiber.

7. Nuts and Seeds

• Examples: Almonds, macadamia nuts, walnuts, hazelnuts, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds.
• Tip: Nuts and seeds make excellent snacks but are calorie-dense, so enjoy them in moderation.

8. Healthy Fats and Oils

• Examples: Extra virgin olive oil, avocado oil, coconut oil.
• Tip: Use these oils for cooking and dressings to add flavor and beneficial fatty acids.

9. Herbs and Spices

• Examples: Sea salt, garlic, turmeric, rosemary, basil, cinnamon.
• Tip: Season your meals with a variety of herbs and spices to enhance flavor without added sugars or artificial additives.

Quality Matters: While it's not a requirement, many people prefer choosing grass-fed meats, pastured eggs, and organic produce when following the Paleo diet. These options may offer higher nutrient levels and fewer chemicals.

Summary

On the Paleo diet, fill your plate with whole, unprocessed foods such as meats, seafood, eggs, vegetables, fruits, tubers, nuts, seeds, and healthy fats. Embracing this variety ensures you get a wide range of nutrients to support overall health. Remember, the emphasis is on natural foods—so enjoy the abundance that nature provides!

By focusing on these nourishing foods, you'll not only adhere to the principles of the Paleo diet but also discover a satisfying and healthful way of eating. Up next, we'll explore how to customize the Paleo diet to suit your personal preferences and lifestyle.

Customizing the Paleo Diet to Fit Your Lifestyle

The Paleo diet isn't a rigid set of rules but rather a flexible framework that you can adapt to suit your personal needs and preferences. Over time, several modified versions of the Paleo diet have emerged, allowing for the inclusion of certain modern, healthy foods. Here's how you can tailor the Paleo diet to fit your lifestyle:

1. Including Grass-Fed Dairy Products

• Grass-Fed Butter and Ghee: Some people choose to incorporate grass-fed butter or ghee into their diet. These fats are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and can enhance the flavor of your meals.
• Full-Fat Dairy: Products like full-fat, grass-fed cheese and yogurt may be included if you tolerate dairy well.

2. Adding Gluten-Free Grains

• Gluten-Free Options: Grains such as rice, quinoa, and buckwheat are naturally gluten-free and can be included in moderation.
• Why Include Them: These grains can provide additional fiber and nutrients, making the diet more varied and sustainable for some individuals.

3. Embracing Legumes in Moderation

• Proper Preparation: Soaking and sprouting legumes like lentils and chickpeas can reduce antinutrient content.
• Nutritional Benefits: Legumes are a good source of protein and fiber, which may benefit your digestive health.

4. Personalizing Your Diet

• Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how different foods make you feel and adjust accordingly.
• Flexibility: Allowing occasional non-Paleo foods can make the diet more enjoyable and easier to stick with long-term.

Summary

You can use the Paleo diet as a starting point, customizing it by adding other healthy foods like grass-fed butter, gluten-free grains, and properly prepared legumes. This flexible approach allows you to create a balanced, nutritious eating plan that aligns with your health goals and personal preferences.

By adapting the Paleo diet to suit your lifestyle, you make it more practical and enjoyable, increasing the likelihood of long-term success. Remember, the best diet is one that you can maintain and that makes you feel your best.

Enjoying Sensible Indulgences on the Paleo Diet

Adhering to the Paleo diet doesn't mean you have to give up all of life's little pleasures. In fact, certain foods and beverages can be enjoyed in moderation, adding both satisfaction and potential health benefits to your eating plan. Here are some sensible indulgences that fit within the Paleo lifestyle:

1. Red Wine

• Why It's Allowed: While alcohol wasn't consumed by Paleolithic humans, quality red wine is embraced by many Paleo enthusiasts due to its rich content of antioxidants and polyphenols.
• Health Benefits: Moderate red wine consumption has been associated with heart health benefits, thanks to compounds like resveratrol.
• Enjoy in Moderation: Limit to one glass occasionally to reap the benefits without overindulging.
• Research Support: Studies suggest that red wine may have positive effects on cardiovascular health (source, source).

2. Dark Chocolate

• Why It's Allowed: Dark chocolate, especially varieties with 70% or higher cocoa content, is packed with antioxidants and essential minerals.
• Health Benefits: It's a good source of magnesium and iron, and the flavonoids in dark chocolate may promote heart health.
• Choosing the Right Kind: Opt for high-quality dark chocolate with minimal added sugars and no dairy additives.
• Nutritional Insights: A small serving can satisfy sweet cravings while providing beneficial nutrients (source).

Summary

When following the Paleo diet, you can occasionally indulge in small amounts of red wine and dark chocolate. These treats not only add enjoyment to your diet but also offer potential health benefits when consumed responsibly.

Allowing for these sensible indulgences makes the Paleo diet more sustainable and enjoyable, helping you maintain this healthy lifestyle over the long term. Remember, moderation is key to balancing pleasure and health!

Next, we'll explore the best beverage choices to keep you hydrated and satisfied while sticking to your Paleo lifestyle!

What to Drink on the Paleo Diet

Staying hydrated is crucial for overall health, and on the Paleo diet, water is your best friend. It's the most natural beverage and perfectly aligns with the principles of consuming whole, unprocessed foods.

However, there are other drinks that, while not strictly Paleolithic, are generally accepted within the Paleo community due to their health benefits:

1. Tea

• Types: Herbal teas, especially green tea.
• Health Benefits: Green tea is rich in antioxidants and various beneficial compounds that support overall health and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases (source).
• Why It's Accepted: Tea is a natural beverage that provides hydration along with additional nutrients.

2. Coffee

• Health Benefits: Coffee is high in antioxidants and has been linked to numerous health benefits, including enhanced brain function and a lower risk of certain diseases (source).
• Moderation is Key: Enjoy coffee black or with a splash of almond or coconut milk. Avoid adding sugar or artificial creamers to keep it Paleo-friendly.

Summary

While water should be your primary drink on the Paleo diet, you can also enjoy tea and coffee in moderation. These beverages are high in antioxidants and can offer additional health benefits, making them acceptable choices for many Paleo followers.

By selecting these wholesome beverages, you can stay hydrated and reap health benefits without straying from your Paleo lifestyle. Up next, we'll delve into the potential risks and downsides of the Paleo diet to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding the Risks and Downsides of the Paleo Diet

While the Paleo diet offers numerous potential benefits, it's important to be aware of its drawbacks to make an informed decision about whether it's right for you.

1. Nutrient Deficiencies

The Paleo diet eliminates several food groups that are highly nutritious, including legumes, dairy, and gluten-containing grains. Excluding these can lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients:

• Legumes: Rich in fiber, protein, and micronutrients like iron, zinc, and copper (source, source).
• Dairy Products: Provide calcium and vitamin D, crucial for bone health.
• Whole Grains: Contain B vitamins, fiber, and minerals that support overall health.

By cutting out these food groups, you may risk missing out on important nutrients that support bodily functions.

2. Digestive Discomfort

Transitioning to the Paleo diet means increasing your intake of high-fiber foods like vegetables, fruits, and nuts. While fiber is beneficial for digestion, a sudden increase can cause gastric distress such as bloating, gas, or diarrhea, especially if you're coming from a low-fiber diet (source, source).

Tip: To minimize discomfort, gradually introduce high-fiber foods into your diet and ensure adequate water intake.

3. Unsuitability for Vegans and Vegetarians

Legumes are a primary protein source for vegetarians and vegans. Since the Paleo diet excludes legumes and emphasizes animal proteins, it may not be practical or nutritionally adequate for those following plant-based diets (source).

4. Potential for Higher Costs

Choosing organic produce, grass-fed meats, and wild-caught seafood—which are often recommended on the Paleo diet—can be more expensive than conventional options, potentially increasing your grocery bills.

5. Social Limitations

The restrictive nature of the Paleo diet may make social situations, dining out, or traveling more challenging, as it can be difficult to find compliant food options.

Remember: There's no one-size-fits-all diet. While the Paleo diet may work well for some people, it might not be the best choice for everyone. It's important to consider your individual health needs, lifestyle, and dietary preferences.

Consult a Professional

Before making significant changes to your diet, consider speaking with a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian. They can help you assess whether the Paleo diet is appropriate for you and how to implement it in a balanced way.

Summary

The Paleo diet eliminates certain nutritious food groups, which may lead to nutrient deficiencies and digestive discomfort for some individuals. It may also be unsuitable for vegetarians and vegans. Consulting with a healthcare professional can help determine if the Paleo diet aligns with your health goals.

By understanding both the benefits and risks, you can make an informed decision about whether the Paleo diet is the right path for your health journey.

A Sample Paleo Menu for One Week

Planning your meals can make following the Paleo diet simpler and more enjoyable. Here's a sample one-week meal plan featuring a variety of delicious, Paleo-friendly foods. Feel free to adjust this menu based on your preferences and dietary needs.

Monday

• Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with sautéed vegetables (spinach, bell peppers) cooked in olive oil, plus a piece of fresh fruit (e.g., an apple).
• Lunch: Grilled chicken salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and an olive oil dressing; a handful of almonds.
• Dinner: Grass-fed beef burgers (no bun) pan-fried in butter, served with roasted vegetables (broccoli, carrots) and homemade salsa.

Tuesday

• Breakfast: Crispy bacon and fried eggs, served with sliced avocado and a piece of fruit (e.g., a banana).
• Lunch: Leftover beef burgers wrapped in lettuce leaves with tomato slices and Paleo-friendly condiments.
• Dinner: Baked salmon seasoned with herbs, served with steamed asparagus and sweet potato mash.

Wednesday

• Breakfast: Leftover baked salmon mixed into an omelet with vegetables.
• Lunch: Lettuce wrap "sandwich" with turkey slices, avocado, lettuce, tomato, and mustard.
• Dinner: Ground beef stir-fry with mixed vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, onions), seasoned with garlic and ginger; fresh berries for dessert.

Thursday

• Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with diced tomatoes and onions; a piece of fresh fruit (e.g., an orange).
• Lunch: Leftover ground beef stir-fry; a handful of mixed nuts.
• Dinner: Pan-fried pork chops with sautéed Brussels sprouts and apples.

Friday

• Breakfast: Omelet with mushrooms, spinach, and tomatoes cooked in olive oil; a piece of fruit (e.g., a pear).
• Lunch: Chicken salad made with shredded chicken, mixed greens, sliced almonds, and olive oil vinaigrette.
• Dinner: Grilled steak with roasted sweet potatoes and a side salad of mixed greens.

Saturday

• Breakfast: Bacon and eggs served with grilled tomatoes and sautéed mushrooms.
• Lunch: Leftover steak sliced over a bed of lettuce with cucumbers and bell peppers.
• Dinner: Baked tilapia seasoned with lemon and herbs, served with roasted vegetables and sliced avocado.

Sunday

• Breakfast: Vegetable frittata made with eggs, spinach, onions, and bell peppers; a side of fresh berries.
• Lunch: Lettuce wraps with sliced roast beef, tomatoes, and mustard; carrot sticks on the side.
• Dinner: Grilled chicken wings marinated in spices, served with a salad and homemade salsa.

Summary

You can create a variety of delicious meals using Paleo-friendly foods. This sample menu provides ideas for what a week on the Paleo diet might look like, helping you stay on track while enjoying satisfying and nutritious dishes.

By planning ahead and embracing the diverse foods allowed on the Paleo diet, you make healthy eating both enjoyable and sustainable.

Simple Paleo Snacks

If you find yourself hungry between meals, there are plenty of simple and portable Paleo-friendly snacks to keep you satisfied. Here are some easy options:

1. Nuts and Seeds

• Toasted Almonds or Mixed Nuts: A handful of almonds, walnuts, cashews, or mixed nuts provides healthy fats and protein to curb hunger.
• Pumpkin or Sunflower Seeds: These are rich in nutrients and easy to take on the go.

2. Hard-Boiled Eggs

• Protein-Packed Eggs: Hard-boiled eggs are a convenient snack offering a good dose of protein and essential nutrients.

3. Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

• Baby Carrots and Celery Sticks: Crunchy and refreshing, they make for a satisfying snack.
• Sliced Apples or Pears: Pair them with almond butter for added healthy fats and flavor.
• Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are antioxidant-rich and delicious.

4. Dairy-Free Chia Pudding

• Chia Seed Pudding: Made with coconut milk and sweetened with a touch of honey or maple syrup, it's a satisfying snack rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber.

5. Jerky

• Beef or Turkey Jerky: Opt for natural, nitrate-free versions without added sugars for a protein-rich snack.

6. Guacamole with Veggie Sticks

• Homemade Guacamole: Enjoy with carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips for a dose of healthy fats and crunch.

Summary

Paleo snacks are easy to prepare and perfect for on-the-go nourishment. Options like nuts, hard-boiled eggs, fresh fruits, and veggies not only keep you full between meals but also provide essential nutrients to support your Paleo lifestyle.

Incorporating these simple snacks into your routine can help you stay energized throughout the day while adhering to the principles of the Paleo diet.

By keeping these snacks handy, you can easily stick to your Paleo diet without feeling deprived or hungry between meals. Happy snacking!

Simple Paleo Shopping List

Embarking on the Paleo diet is exciting, especially with the incredible variety of delicious and nutritious foods you can enjoy. To help you get started, here's a simple shopping list featuring essential Paleo-friendly items:

Proteins

• Meat: Beef, lamb, pork
• Poultry: Chicken, turkey
• Fish and Seafood: Salmon, trout, mackerel, shrimp, scallops
• Eggs: Free-range or omega-3 enriched eggs

Fresh Vegetables

• Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, lettuce
• Cruciferous Veggies: Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts
• Roots and Tubers: Sweet potatoes, carrots, onions
• Others: Tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, cucumbers

Frozen Vegetables

• Convenient Options: Frozen broccoli, spinach, mixed vegetable blends

Fruits and Berries

• Fruits: Apples, bananas, pears, oranges, avocados
• Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries

Nuts and Nut Butters

• Nuts: Almonds, walnuts, macadamia nuts, hazelnuts
• Nut Butter: Almond butter

Healthy Fats and Oils

• Oils: Extra virgin olive oil, coconut oil, avocado oil
• Others: Olives, avocados

Condiments, Herbs, and Spices

• Seasonings: Sea salt, black pepper, turmeric, garlic, parsley
• Herbs and Spices: Basil, rosemary, thyme, cinnamon

Summary

To kickstart your Paleo journey, stock your pantry and fridge with these wholesome, natural foods. This shopping list provides a foundation for delicious meals that align with the Paleo lifestyle, making healthy eating both simple and enjoyable.

Happy shopping, and here's to embracing a nourishing and satisfying Paleo diet!

How to Make Restaurant Meals Paleo-Friendly

Eating out while following the Paleo diet doesn't have to be challenging. With a few simple strategies, you can enjoy delicious meals at most restaurants without compromising your dietary choices. Here are some guidelines to help you navigate menus and make Paleo-friendly selections:

1. Choose Meat or Fish-Based Main Dishes

• Opt for Protein-Rich Entrées: Select dishes centered around unprocessed meats or seafood, such as grilled steak, roasted chicken, or baked fish.
• Avoid Breaded or Fried Options: These often contain grains and unhealthy oils. Instead, choose grilled, broiled, or steamed preparations.

2. Swap Out Sides for Extra Vegetables

• Skip the Bread, Rice, or Pasta: Politely decline these common sides and request additional vegetables instead.
• Load Up on Veggies: Ask for a side salad or steamed vegetables to increase your nutrient intake and stay satisfied.

3. Mind Your Cooking Oils

• Request Healthy Fats: Ask if your meal can be cooked in olive oil or avocado oil rather than vegetable oils or butter.
• Sauces and Dressings: Request these on the side to avoid hidden sugars and non-Paleo ingredients. Opt for simple oil and vinegar dressings when possible.

Summary

Eating out while following the Paleo diet doesn’t have to be difficult. By selecting meat or fish dishes, swapping starchy sides for extra veggies, and being mindful of cooking methods, you can enjoy restaurant meals that align with your Paleo lifestyle.

With these simple tips, dining out becomes an enjoyable experience that doesn't derail your dietary goals. Bon appétit!

The Bottom Line on the Paleo Diet

The Paleo diet is inspired by the eating habits of our hunter-gatherer ancestors. While there's no one-size-fits-all approach to the Paleo lifestyle, the fundamental idea is to eliminate processed foods and focus on healthy, whole foods.

You can also use the Paleo diet as a foundation, adding in some modern, nutritious foods like grass-fed butter and gluten-free grains to suit your personal preferences.

To start your Paleo journey, check out the sample menu and shopping list provided above. By stocking your kitchen and pantry with these wholesome, Paleo-friendly foods, you'll be well on your way to embracing a healthier lifestyle.

Disclaimer:

This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Before starting any new diet, including the Paleo Diet, please consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to ensure it aligns with your personal health needs. Individual results may vary, and the information provided should not replace professional guidance or medical treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or dietary adjustments.