Why the Pegan Diet Makes Sense

Abstract

In 1985, S. Boyd Eaton and Melvin Konner published a landmark paper in the New England Journal of Medicine. The title was "Paleolithic Nutrition: A Consideration of Its Nature and Current Implications," and this work postulated that an increase in the prevalence of chronic disease among modern humans is the result of a dietary composition that is incompatible with both our genetic ancestry and natural metabolic function. Over the intervening decades, numerous theories about optimal dietary approaches have been put forth and much debate has ensued. Among researchers and the public, we have witnessed vocal advocates emerge in support of the paleolithic philosophy of encouraging mild ketosis, while others passionately argue for plant-based vegetarianism. There is now evidence that neither extreme provides superior health benefits in isolation. According to numerous clinical studies, a hybrid approach may convey a positive and multifactorial influence on the intestinal microbiome, the metabolome, proteomics, and overall health outcomes. A Mediterranean-style diet has been widely studied, and a new concept-Pegan, which is a contraction of the words paleo and vegan-is now gaining worldwide attention.