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I often hear arguments that since the Kitavans ate it or since those in the paleolithic did it, therefore, it should be fine. Is this a good way of thinking? Should we assume that if a healthy group or tribe did something, therefore it is also healthy for us?

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In short, no.

Honey is a good example. Totally Paleo. But I'm not gonna touch it.

I don't think either Kitavans or Inuit diets are optimal - but optimal probably varies from person to person. They both demonstrate that without grains, modern oils, refined sugar and processed foods - people tend to be much healthier. But it doesn't say what gives the best health/longevity. Maybe it just demonstrates that we are pretty adaptable as a species.

I look at the science and then salt it with an evolutionary perspective, if it still holds up, then I'm okay with it (at least for now).

By the way, after I read up on the Kitavans, I bought an organic coconut. Pretty much put my blood sugar through the roof! (over 200 after only a few chunks)

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eating the fermented contents of an animal's stomach comes to mind. – MikeD Sep 29 2010 at 14:28
eew! What? As something that's paleo that you wouldn't touch either? – Dave S. Sep 30 2010 at 18:50
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I think individuality and regionality come into play so we cannot make a blanket statement. It may be that if a foodstuff was commonly eaten in paleolithic times that it would probably be less problematic for most individuals. So it becomes a starting point not an endpoint.

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