The whole idea of going on a paleo diet is based on eating like our ancestors ate. In simpler words, eat like a caveman. When on a paleo diet, you cut out on a ton of processed foods and go on a higher protein to carb ratio diet that can aide in the process of weight loss. Paleo dieting is a good way to move to a more wholefoods approach by eliminating processed junk food and sugar. However, there are certain side effects that you should be aware of before going on a paleo diet.
1. It results in lack of energy.
Going on a lower-carb diet can make you feel dizzy and lightheaded. During the initial adjustment period, you may experience fatigue, lethargy or irritability which is also termed as ‘low-carbs flu.’
2. It leads to a loss of appetite.
Switching to a low-carb diet can send your body into starvation mode which can have quite a few negative side effects as your body tries to conserve energy. This may also result in decrease of thyroid function.
3. It leads to bad breath.
You see, your body tends to shift its focus to fat burning or ketosis due to lack of carbs. This process generates compounds called acetone which makes your breath smell. So, it is advised to always keep some chewing gum handy.
4. It causes change in bowel habits.
Initially, when you change the type of food you eat, your gut requires some time to adapt to it which in turn can result in change in bowel habits.
5. It results in elevated LDL cholesterol.
When you are on a paleo diet, you are bound to increase the intake of saturated fat that impacts your cholesterol levels because you eat a diet high in animal fat.
Consult your doctor before going on a paleo diet.