New to this

Options
micqs
micqs Posts: 186 Member
Hey guys! I'm new to this eating style and have a few questions. I'll just hit you with one for now :). When looking at ingredient lists, what type of things should I avoid? In particular, if something has sugar added ie Dijon mustard, does it make it non-paleo?

Replies

  • momof2osaurus
    momof2osaurus Posts: 477 Member
    Options
    Technically, refined sugar is non-paleo.

    However, dijon mustard is my condiment of choice. :) I buy the organic kind and call it good enough.
  • MikeFlyMike
    MikeFlyMike Posts: 639 Member
    Options
    I would highly recommend reading either "Primal blueprint" or "It Starts with Food".
    And I try to avoid anything with "ingredients" :)
  • Barbellgirl
    Barbellgirl Posts: 544 Member
    Options
    Hey guys! I'm new to this eating style and have a few questions. I'll just hit you with one for now :). When looking at ingredient lists, what type of things should I avoid? In particular, if something has sugar added ie Dijon mustard, does it make it non-paleo?

    Technically yes. Some people decide to transition to Paleo using a 80/20 rule. 80% of the foods being paleo, which allows for some exceptions for non paleo food. It's really about how strictly you want to follow the diet/lifestyle. I personally went through my kitchen and discarded all the items that contained non paleo ingredients which will be most of your condiments and salad dressings because I wanted to see what a difference it would really make. There are lots of recipes out there to make your own paleo versions of most of your favorite condiments and salad dressings.

    It really boils down to how 'pure' you want to try the lifestyle. :)
  • micqs
    micqs Posts: 186 Member
    Options
    I am officially starting in August but going through my pantry to get rid of foods. Making little changes now to help my transition into "clean" eating. I read Nerd Fitness's article on Paleo and put their Paleo Central App on my phone. I know anything made of grain, corn, dairy is a no no. I have always gone with the "if you cant pronounce it, its not good for you" aspect unless I know exactly what it is. I have a few things that have sugar in the ingredients list. Just wasnt sure if this mindset still applied or if there are foods I should avoid that one wouldnt typically think of. I have read several things about what to eat and what not to eat and still conflicted. I will have to check those sources out. I have difficulty sticking with things and this is something I want to do and will try my hardest. So any sources you guys can offer will be great! Thank you so much! This is much more friendly than the main forums. Thank you guys!
  • micqs
    micqs Posts: 186 Member
    Options
    I am officially starting in August but going through my pantry to get rid of foods. Making little changes now to help my transition into "clean" eating. I read Nerd Fitness's article on Paleo and put their Paleo Central App on my phone. I know anything made of grain, corn, dairy is a no no. I have a few things that have sugar in the ingredients list so I wasnt sure if this made it non-paleo. I have always gone with the "if you cant pronounce it, its not good for you" aspect unless I know exactly what it is. Just wasnt sure if this mindset still applied or if there are foods I should make sure to avoid that one wouldnt typically think of. I have read several things about what to eat and what not to eat and still conflicted. I will have to check those sources out. I have difficulty sticking with things and this is something I want to do and will try my hardest. So any sources you guys can offer will be great! Thank you so much! This is much more friendly than the main forums. Thank you guys!

    Edited to make sense: Too much wine!
  • Barbellgirl
    Barbellgirl Posts: 544 Member
    Options
    Sounds like you have a great approach and plan. Soy and legumes and two non paleo things that I didn't see on your list. A few great recipe websites are everydaypaleo.com, and elana'spantry.com., and Mark's Daily Apple (blog) has some great links to other paleo/primal resources. I also love the 'nom nom paleo' app, and when you are just starting, that Paleo Central app is very handy. :)
  • EchoDelta1013
    EchoDelta1013 Posts: 93 Member
    Options
    Hey guys! I'm new to this eating style and have a few questions. I'll just hit you with one for now :). When looking at ingredient lists, what type of things should I avoid? In particular, if something has sugar added ie Dijon mustard, does it make it non-paleo?

    Yes, if it has sugar, it would make it non-Paleo. However as you peruse there various Paleo recipes, the authors will use non-Paleo seasonings and/or sauces. For example, some recipes will call for worcestershire sauce or regular soy sauce, sriracha, etc. There are alternatives but not always. I would suggest to read the labels. I use the same motto :)

    I second the book, It Starts with Food by Dan & Melissa Hartwig. It's an easy read with a lot of information. ISWF is the background for the Whole 30 program. It is strict but you can start with these links to give you a better idea for what to not only look for but to what to shop for as well:

    Quick Start Guide: http://whole9life.com/book/ISWF-Quick-Start-Guide.pdf

    Grocery Shopping Guide: http://whole9life.com/book/ISWF-Grocery-Shopping.pdf

    Good Meat Guide: http://whole9life.com/book/ISWF-Good-Meat.pdf

    Guide to Sneaky Sugars: http://whole9life.com/book/ISWF-Sugar.pdf

    Shopping List: http://whole9life.com/book/ISWF-Shopping-List.pdf

    Shopping List for Vegans/Vegetarians: http://whole9life.com/book/ISWF-Vegetarian-Shopping-List.pdf

    Pantry Stocking Guide: http://whole9life.com/book/ISWF-Pantry-Stocking.pdf

    Meal Planning Template: http://whole9life.com/book/ISWF-Meal-Planning-Template.pdf

    Dining Out: http://whole9life.com/book/ISWF-Dining-Guide.pdf