Paleo is a popular diet trend – but because its popularity has grown rapidly in recent years it can be difficult to find up to date Paleo statistics and facts. Our team of Paleolithic diet experts put together a list of the 20 most important things to know about Paleo in 2024 so you have all the facts!
Paleo Diet Effectiveness
- In one study Paleo dieters blood sugar levels decreased by 0.4%, HDL cholesterol levels rose by 3 mg/dL and Triglycerides levels fell by 35 mg/dL. (Jonsson T, et al., 2009)
Paleo has been shown to positively impact a number of important metrics like blood sugar levels, HDL (the good cholesterol) and Triglyceride levels. - After eating a strict Paleo diet for 10 days participants saw a 16% decrease in total cholesterol and Insulin AUC fell by 39%. (Frassetto, et al., 2009)
The Paleo diet has shown a significant improvement in bad cholesterol levels and Insulin AUC in a 2009 study - Eating a modified paleolithic diet for 5 weeks resulted in participants losing almost 10 pounds on average and a 3.1-inch (8-cm) reduction in waist circumference. (Ryberg, et al., 2013)
Even short burst on the Paleo diet can show a drop in pounds and a decrease in waistline. - A University of Minnesota study showed a decrease in the occurrence of colorectal polyps. (Whalen et al, 2014)
Paleo Food Facts
- ‘Cave people’ did not just eat meat – they ate a variable diet of protein and plants depending on what was available locally. (UC Davis Health, 2015)
One of the most common misconceptions about Paleo is that it is a ‘meat only’ diet – this is actually untrue as many different food groups are allowed on Paleo (just no dairy) - The paleo food market will surpass 20 billion dollars in 2020
Paleo might not be a new trend – but it is a growing niche food market expected to surpass 20 billion USD in 2020 - In 2016 alone there were 190 Paleo specific food products available in stores in categories like meal bars and prepackaged dinners.
Talk about options! This is a 35% increase from 2015 and the trend keeps growing each year. - SUNY estimates that that between 1 and 3 million people in the US follow the Paleo diet at any given time.