What Is the Paleo Diet?

The Paleo diet, short for Paleolithic diet, is a nutritional plan that focuses on eating foods presumed to be available to our ancient ancestors, emphasizing whole, unprocessed foods. Inspired by the dietary patterns of hunter-gatherers, the Paleo diet includes lean meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, while excluding dairy, grains, legumes, and processed foods. The idea is to mimic the eating habits of early humans, promoting health and well-being through natural, nutrient-dense foods.

A typical Paleo diet encourages the consumption of healthy fats, moderate protein, and a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. Olive oil, a fruit oil whose history dates back to ancient times that also offers extensive health benefits, fits seamlessly into the Paleo lifestyle.

Is Olive Oil Paleo Friendly?

Absolutely! Olive oil is a perfect addition to the Paleo diet as it is a natural, unprocessed fat source that aligns with the principles of the diet. Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is particularly prized for its health benefits, which include being rich in monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, polyphenols, and essential vitamins like A, D, E, and K.

Unlike other oils and fat sources like butter which are high in saturated fats, olive oil is heart-friendly and supports overall health. Its high antioxidant content and other bioactive compounds offer numerous benefits, such as reducing inflammation and promoting cardiovascular health, making it an excellent choice for those following the Paleo diet.

Health Benefits of Olive Oil on a Paleo Diet

1. Rich in Healthy Fats

The Paleo diet encourages the consumption of healthy fats, and olive oil is an excellent source of monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid. These fats support heart health, reduce inflammation, and provide a steady source of energy.

2. Antioxidant Powerhouse

Olive oil is loaded with antioxidants, such as vitamin E and polyphenols. These compounds help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation, contributing to overall health and longevity.

3. Supports Healthy Digestion

Olive oil has been shown to promote healthy digestion by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes and improving nutrient absorption. This can be particularly beneficial on the Paleo diet, which includes a variety of fiber-rich vegetables and fruits.

4. Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Chronic inflammation is a root cause of many modern diseases. The polyphenols and oleocanthal in olive oil have potent anti-inflammatory effects, which can help manage inflammation and promote better health on the Paleo diet.

How To Use Olive Oil in a Keto Diet

Sizzle & Drizzle are the best because they're super versatile! This means that they can easily be incorporated into the keto diet in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas:

- Swap Your Dressing For Drizzle—Drizzle is packed with punchy flavor! Put that flavor to work and use it by itself as a topping on your raw or cooked veggies.

- Double Your Omegas—use Sizzle to cook your salmon and other fish fillets for an extra dose of Omega-3s. 

- Sizzle Strip Steaks—sear up a Paleo-friendly steak in Sizzle! Check out our favorite recipe here.