Iolans learn of Paleo diet, lifestyle at event

Iolans packed the Creitz Recital Hall Thursday night to learn how to live the Paleo Way.
Dietitian Katrina Springer gave an in-depth look at what the Paleo diet and lifestyle entail and how community members can get started.
Springer said the Paleo way is not just a diet but a lifestyle, including adequate sleep and an exercise routine.
One big item that is not allowed on the list is grains. People of the Paleolithic times did eat grains but today’s grain products include more gluten. Wheat has anti-nutrients in it such saponins, lectins, phytic acid. The anti-nutrients reduce the body’s ability to absorb or use essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals. Phytic acid (aka phytate) is a substance found in many types of plant foods, such as grains, legumes, including peanuts and soybeans. This can cause a leaky gut.
A possible cause of leaky gut is increased intestinal permeability or intestinal hyperpermeability. That could happen when tight junctions in the gut, which control what passes through the lining of the small intestine, don’t work properly. That could let substances leak into the bloodstream.
Springer said the Paleo diet also battles acne, migraines, obesity and mental disorders.
Springer said 65 percent of the world population cannot digest dairy. Springer said too much calcium can cause heart disease.

SPRINGER FIELDED questions after her presentation.
Someone asked how to order at a restaurant. Springer suggested asking waiters to substitute food items that conflict with the Paleo Way. At a Mexican restaurant, order fajitas without the tortilla, rice or beans, leaving the meat and vegetables. At a hamburger joint ask for the hamburger patty to be wrapped in lettuce instead of a bun. If a meal comes with French fries ask for steamed vegetables instead.
Another person asked how much Springer spends on groceries. She said the paleo diet is a bit more expensive than buying processed food. Her family spends about $400 to $500 a month on groceries. A good tip is to buy items in bulk and freeze them for later. Fresh fruits and vegetables are great, but frozen works, too.
She encouraged attendees to embark on the Whole 30 with her beginning on Monday. A Whole 30 is 30 days of “clean” eating. This helps eliminate toxins, sugar and gluten from the body. Springer said a Whole 30 Facebook group has been created for those who have questions or need moral support.