Paleo Diet Guidelines for Candy and Sweet Treats

Understanding the Paleo Diet

The paleo diet, also known as the caveman diet, is a nutritional approach focused on eating whole, unprocessed foods that our ancient ancestors would have eaten. This means foods that could be hunted, fished or gathered. The ideology behind this is that the human body is best adapted to the diet we evolved to eat over thousands of years. By eliminating processed foods, grains, legumes, dairy and refined sugars, the paleo diet focuses on lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, nuts and healthy fats.

Foods Encouraged on the Paleo Diet

There are many delicious whole food options that fit perfectly into the paleo lifestyle:

• Lean meats: grass-fed beef, pork, lamb, game meat, poultry and eggs
• Seafood: salmon, tuna, mackerel, shrimp, lobster and more
• Vegetables: leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, peppers and more
• Fruits: apples, oranges, bananas, blueberries, strawberries in moderation
• Nuts and seeds: almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds
• Healthy fats: olive oil, coconut oil, avocado oil, ghee and lard

Foods to Avoid on the Paleo Diet

There are also many foods that should be eliminated from the diet while following paleo guidelines:

• Grains: wheat, oats, corn, rice, barley, rye, pasta and bread
• Beans and legumes: chickpeas, lentils, peas, soybeans and peanuts
• Dairy: milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream
• Refined sugar: soda, candy, baked goods, juice and desserts
• Processed foods: chips, cereal, sauces, spreads and veggie burgers
• Vegetable oils: canola, sunflower, safflower, soybean and corn oil
• Artificial ingredients: additives, sweeteners, flavors and colors

Paleo Diet Guidelines for Candy and Sweets

One downside of the paleo diet for many is missing out on sweet treats and desserts. But just because these delicious foods are off the table, doesn't mean your sweet tooth has to suffer.

When it comes to paleo candy options, creativity is key. By focusing on ingredients that fit into paleo guidelines, you can make homemade candy that still satisfies.

Paleo-Friendly Sweeteners

The natural sweeteners allowed on paleo are much healthier than refined sugar:

• Raw honey: Contains antioxidants, enzymes, vitamins and minerals
• Maple syrup: Rich in antioxidants like zinc and manganese
• Coconut sugar: Lower glycemic impact than regular sugar
• Stevia: Derived from the stevia leaf, no calories or carbs
• Monk fruit: Zero calories and carbs with antioxidant benefits

Wholesome Ingredients for Homemade Candy

When making paleo candy at home, the options are endless. Try using these delicious ingredients:

• Dark chocolate: Contains antioxidants and minerals like iron
• Coconut: Adds healthy fats and texture
• Almond butter: Protein, fiber and vitamin E
• Dried fruit: Sweetness with nutrients like vitamin C
• Chia seeds: Omega-3 fatty acids, protein and fiber
• Nuts like almonds, pecans or walnuts: Healthy fats and crunch
• Spices like cinnamon, ginger or vanilla: Flavor without added sugar

Tips for Paleo-Friendly Store Bought Candy

If you prefer store-bought candy options, be sure to read the label closely. Watch out for off-limit ingredients like grains, dairy and refined sugar. Here are some tips:

• Choose 70% or higher dark chocolate for antioxidants
• Look for candy sweetened with stevia, monk fruit or coconut sugar
• Check ingredients for hidden milk ingredients if dairy-free
• Avoid anything with hydrogenated oils or "vegetable oils"
• Seek out options made with nuts, spices and fruit

Recipes for Paleo Candy and Sweets

Ready to satisfy your sweet tooth the paleo way? Here are some mouthwatering paleo candy recipes to try:

Dark Chocolate Coconut Clusters

These candy clusters are a tasty paleo treat combining chocolate, coconut and almonds:

• Coconut flakes toasted to perfection
• 70% dark chocolate for antioxidants
• Slivered almonds add crunch and protein
• Just 5 ingredients for easy candy making

Pecan Praline Sweet Potatoes

This unique spin on sweet potatoes makes for a delicious paleo dessert:

• Baked sweet potatoes become candied treats
• Pecans and coconut sugar add sweet praline flavor
• Maple syrup used as a healthy paleo sweetener
• Simple 4 ingredient candy recipe

Frozen Banana Bites with Dark Chocolate

These frozen chocolate covered snacks make perfect healthy candy:

• Bananas freeze nicely for homemade popsicles
• 70% cacao chocolate adds antioxidants
• Coconut oil helps chocolate coat smoothly
• Kids love these frozen chocolate banana bites

Frequently Asked Questions

Is candy allowed on the paleo diet?

Most candy is not paleo-friendly, but there are ways to create sweet paleo treats. Focus on whole food ingredients like fruit, dark chocolate, coconut, nuts and natural sweeteners.

What can I use to sweeten paleo desserts?

Good paleo sweetener options include raw honey, maple syrup, coconut sugar, stevia, monk fruit or small amounts of dried fruit. Refined sugar is not allowed.

Are chocolate bars paleo?

Dark chocolate with 70% cacao or higher is generally paleo-friendly. But read ingredient lists carefully and avoid milk chocolate or products with refined sugar and soy lecithin.

Can I eat jelly beans, gummy bears, or skittles on paleo?

No, most store-bought candy like jelly beans, gummies, or skittles contain refined sugar and other non-paleo ingredients. But you can make paleo-friendly gummy snacks at home using gelatin and fruit juice.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.