The Paleo Diet by Loren Cordain
Asserting that "modern life causes diabetes, autoimmunity, cancer, neurodegeneration,
and infertility," the first-time author Wolf, a former student of The Paleo Diet's
Lauren Cordain, takes on grains, carbs, vegetarians, misinformation, and other aspects
of modern life with a casual, conversational tone ("Keep your poop where it belongs")
that makes even topics like the components of total cholesterol engaging. Wolf's
scientific background allows him to fully explain hormones, fats, and the digestive
process, and helps him put the fundamentals of evolutionary biology into accessible
context. He argues that, in addition to dietary changes, a focus on the quality and
duration of sleep and a fitness routine is needed, and photographs accompanied by
detailed instructions guide readers through simple exercises. Recognizing the time
crunch of modern life, Wolf's program is created to require minimum time and expense.
While a grain-free, dairy-free diet may sound difficult to implement, he suggests
a commitment-light 30-day trial and provides a four-week menu with simple recipes like
Slow Cooker Pork Loin, Chicken Alfredo, and Pizza with a nut-based crust. An extensive
list of references, primarily from peer-reviewed journals, lends credence to an
intriguing argument.
The Paleo Solution - The Original Human Diet by Loren Cordain and Robb Wolf
According to author Loren Cordain, modern health and diet problems didn't start with
the advent of packaged snack food, but much earlier--back at the dawn of the agricultural
age many thousands of years ago. As humans became less nomadic and more dependent on high-
carbohydrate diets, we left behind the diet we had evolved with, which is based on low-
fat proteins and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Sugars, fats, and carbs were rare, if
they were present at all, and survival required a steady, if low-key, level of activity.
Cordain's book The Paleo Diet blends medical research with a healthy sprinkle of
individual anecdotes, practical tips, and recipes designed to make his suggestions into
a sustainable lifestyle, rather than a simple month-long diet; he even includes cooking
recommendations and nationwide sources for wild game.
Claims of improving diseases from diabetes to acne to polycystic ovary disease may be
a little overstated, but in general the advice seems sound. Can any of us really go wrong
by adding lots more vegetables and fruits to our daily regimen? One recommendation on
safe tanning with a gradual reduction in sunscreen is surprising and not much detail is
provided for safety issues that can accompany increased sun exposure. Still, Cordain's
assertions have helped many people, and could provide exactly the changes you've been
looking for to improve your health. --Jill Lightne
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