Which dietary approach involves strict avoidance of grains?

The Paleo diet emphasizes a return to the dietary patterns presumed to have been followed by our Paleolithic ancestors, which primarily consists of whole foods. A key characteristic of this approach is the strict avoidance of grains, legumes, dairy products, and processed foods. This stems from the belief that modern agricultural practices introduced foods that may not align with our evolutionary adaptation, potentially leading to negative health outcomes.

This approach encourages the consumption of lean meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. By excluding grains, it seeks to reduce the intake of refined carbohydrates and gluten, which some individuals may find challenging to digest or may be associated with certain health issues. The focus on whole and unprocessed foods in the Paleo diet aligns with principles of culinary medicine, promoting nutrient-dense options that can improve health outcomes.

The other dietary approaches listed differ in their guidelines regarding grains. For instance, The Zone diet includes a balanced ratio of macronutrients and does not require strict avoidance of grains, while the Dean Ornish diet emphasizes plant-based foods but may allow for whole grains in moderate amounts. The South Beach diet also includes certain types of whole grains after an initial strict phase, making them part of its longer-term eating plan.