This is part four of a series of articles on the Paleolithic diet. The first three articles (see links below) pointed out the apparent inconsistencies that exist between the facts and the fundamental arguments offered by fans as to why the Paleo way of life is superior with regards to overall health.
Now it’s time to examine the Paleo Diet further and look at a documented case of the benefits of a few of the components of the Paleolithic diet.
Bear in mind this isn’t an account of the results of a Paleolithic diet per se, but one that is to some extent similar biochemically.
Ketogenic Diets
The Paleo diet is essentially a ketogenic diet . . . though to what degree depends on whom you consult. Ketogenic diets severely restrict carbohydrates, are extremely high in fat, and result in the formation of ketone bodies when fat is burned. In a ketogenic state ketones take the place of glucose as a fuel source.
You might ask yourself, is this good? Well, normally it’s not. When the body enters ketosis a number of serious side effects can occur such as liver and kidney damage. But there are certain medical conditions where ketosis is useful in managing symptoms of medical disorders. Epilepsy is one of these conditions.
An enlightening article in the NY Times online told the story of a young boy named Sam whose frequent epileptic seizuresas many as 100 daily couldn’t be controlled by medication. As an alternative (and under doctor supervision), Sam was placed on a ketogenic diet consisting of about 90% fat. His menu consists of absolutely no breads, sugars or grains, but butter, heavy cream, and eggs and bacon are allowed. No, “allowed” isn’t the right word. They and other similar foods are critical to maintain the ratio of fats, carbohydrates, and proteins responsible for reducing over 100 seizures per day to 6.
The ketogenic diet’s impact on pediatric seizures is now widely accepted. Scientists don’t fully understand exactly how ketones control seizures; they just know that they do. And though there are definitely risks involved with this type of diet, in some disease states the benefits of adhering to the diet far exceeds the risks.
Proponents of the Paleolithic diet say it can “cure” other diseases as well such as autoimmune and cardiovascular diseases, or most any disease they label a “disease of civilization.” And despite the astounding results of the ketogenic diet that transformed Sam’s life, other experts believe it is the exception rather than the rule.
Perhaps in the end, when it comes to determining the good, the bad, and the ugly of the Paleolithic Diet, one simply has to do his or her own research on both sides and then let common sense prevail.
Also see:
Part One: The Paleolithic Diet: Exploring The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
Part Two: The Paleo Diet
Part Three: Who Lives Longest? Exploring the Ins and Outs of the Paleo Diet
