The Paleo diet wants to turn consumers away from their unnatural food sources and bring them back to basics. The basic nutritional plan of this particular diet is based on the diet of plants and animals that the human species would have presumably lived on during the Paleolithic era. The diet consists mainly of meat, fish, fruits, vegetables and nuts.

Proteins are without a doubt the focus of this particular diet plan. What isn’t allowed? Dairy products, refined sugar, salt or any kind of processed oil. You can load up on berries, but don’t touch potatoes. Carbs are a big no-no with this diet, as is anything that you cannot eat in its raw state. Raw food diets have this in common with the Paleo Diet.

This diet sometimes also includes fasting periods as would be typical of cavemen who were unable to find food during certain points of the season or year. This is a simplistic diet that goes back to the beginning of time, when puffed cheese curls and canned fruits weren’t even remotely thought of. It obviously has its benefits, but is not necessarily a balanced diet as we know them today. The exercises associated with this diet are activities a caveman would likely have participated in- running, jumping and climbing.

Many of the people claiming to see benefits from this diet are hip 20-something males, but their female counterparts are participating as well. Along with this diet, there are also a variety of races and events around the country that celebrate the ‘back to basics’ trend and the idea of eating sustainable, natural food and competing in Stone Age-type athletic events. The Caveman Workout is one of these programs.

Naturally, many nutritionists do not recommend this diet due to the fact that it involves avoiding certain food groups altogether. Eliminating dairy and beans could pose a problem with bone health and fiber intake. Several U.S. news outlets state that there isn't enough scientific evidence to back up the claims of this particular diet and Dr. Cordain, who is at the helm of this wave, has responded with a rebuttal.

As with all diet plans, consult with your doctor before attempting.

Learn more about this controversial diet here.