8.7.11

Paleo Macronutrient Ratios - mix it up

The Question Of Macronutrient Ratios
....by Paleo Diet Lifestyle

Conclusion

We can easily summarize this article in 4 key points:
  • We can’t rely solely on anthropological evidence and try to mimic our paleolithic ancestors for optimal health. This applies to specific food choices, but also to the macronutrient ratios.
  • The optimal default mix of macronutrients is probably at around 20% carbohydrates, 65% fat and 15% protein for most people. This doesn’t mean that we should strive for a perfect ratio at every meal.
  • Striving to eat a constant amount of fat, carbs and proteins is simplistic and linear thinking while the better approach should be cyclical. Therefore, there are health benefits in:
    • Low carb, ketogenic periods;
    • Higher carb, protein restricted periods;
    • Higher protein periods;
    • Feasting periods;
    • Fasting periods;
  • Specific conditions can require tweaking of the optimal ratios. Metabolic syndrome and neurological disorders are two examples where lower carbohydrate, ketogenic diets can be desirable.