Lately, I have been on a quest to find great tasting, grain-free foods.
Say what?
Yes, I said grain free. Ever since I became gluten free, I began to notice that my body really doesn’t like grains. I would feel a slight muscle ache as if I had lifted heavy weights the day before, even though I hadn’t. So I began to eliminate all grains, not just wheat.
As you may know, most gluten free foods are made with some kind of grain, usually rice.
So I began to research paleo lupus diets.
This is an approach created by Loren Cordain. It says that if we eat like individuals from the paleolithic era or cavemen times, our diet will consist of animal protein, vegetables and healthy fats.
The paleo diet also offers the theory that the trans fats, sugar, and various processed foods available today may be the culprit behind several chronic illnesses that plague individuals.
Following a paleo diet can help to eliminate chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. Thankfully, there are a growing number of blogs, cookbooks and experts where you can find all the help you need.
But the biggest thing I needed to cut back or decrease all together was dairy. My beloved cheese. My craving for comfort foods usually leads to a big batch of baked ziti or a plate of nachos. Yes, I will be first to admit that its my go- to on a cold, blustery night or a cozy weekend with the boyfriend.
Then I found a small loophole.
Primal.
Yes, my friends, this is paleo with dairy. That was a happy moment for me. Also found out you can do paleo 85/15. That means you can eat 3 meals a week off the paleo diet. Now that sounds more like it! Can’t restrict a foodie with even more “can”t have’s!”
Benefits of Eating Paleo
- Anti-inflammatory
- Reduced allergies
- Clearer skin
- Stable blood sugar
- Weight loss
- Improved energy
What You Can Eat
- Lean meats
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Seafood
- Nuts and seeds
- Healthy fats like avocados
What You Can’t Eat
- Legumes or beans
- Dairy
- Grains
- Sugar
- Processed foods
- Alcohol
A Simple Paleo Meal Anyone Can Make
Last week, on a cold NYC night, I made a very simple meal that anyone can make: roasted chicken with a side of vegetables. Completely paleo and so easy.
Paleo Roasted Chicken with Steamed Veggies:
8 Chicken legs or chicken breast
1-2 tbsp coconut oil
2 cups chopped kale
1 cup chopped cauliflower
salt and pepper
Oven roast 8 chicken drumsticks and season with salt, pepper, and coconut oil. Bake at 375 degrees for 1 hour. Initially cover with foil for 45 minutes then remove so skin becomes crispy golden in color.
In a pan, warm up coconut oil and add chopped up kale and cauliflower. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve hot!
Your Turn
Have you considered trying a paleo diet even for 1 week? If you have, or are planning on trying it this year, I’d love to hear your comments. Share your recipes!
Stay warm,