From: gts (gts_2000@yahoo.com)
Date: Thu Apr 24 2003 - 03:00:57 MDT
Ramez Naam wrote:
> The paleo diet seems moderately compatible with the best
> modern nutritional science.
Yes it is very compatible with at least the basic principles of nutrition.
I'm still waiting for someone to show me solid scientific evidence that
unfortified non-paleo foods like bread and milk are worthwhile additions to
the diet. The same people who criticize me here for arguing from an
evolution science premise rather than from a nutrition science premise are
the same people who have nothing positive to say about the nutritional value
of non-paleolithic foods.
> If I were trying to convince someone of the paleo diet, I'd
> start by positioning it as a diet that reflects the best
> current science (low sat fat, low sugar and starch, high
> fiber, etc...)
As I see it the problem with your suggested approach is that 1) it hands the
ball to the nutritionists to tell us what to eat. Their record so far is not
very good relative to paleodiet theory. Nutritionists told us how to compose
the USDA food pyramid, for example, and I think most of us here are
intelligent enough to know that the USDA food pyramid is a failure; and 2)
there is no clear consensus among nutritionists about the finer details of
proper diet in the first place. When you say you would "start by positioning
it as a diet that reflects the best current science" you are opening up a
huge can of worms. Some experts in the field believe low-carb, high-protein
diets are best while others believe low-fat high-grain diets are best. Both
camps make some compelling arguments. That debate is not even close to
resolution.
Incidentally, Dr. Atkins passed away a few days ago after suffering a
massive brain injury from slipping and falling on the icy streets of NY
City. As most people know, Atkins was the main voice for the low-carb
high-protein camp. It is not clear who will take his place in the national
debate about diet.
> Anyway, that's my $.02. This has been an enjoyable and
> educational thread for me. Thanks all.
Glad you're enjoying it. I am also. For much of my life I was devoted to
understanding and advising people regarding finance. In this part of my life
I am devoted to understanding and advising people regarding health. This is
what I do.
-gts
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