Nutritional Breakdown

Macronutrients

Macronutrient ratios for the Paleo diet can vary depending on the interpretation follow. The data that has been collated from Paleolithic times, however, suggests that the ratio is roughly 20% carbohydrate, 65% fat, and 15% protein, by energy content (Paleo Leap).

This is in comparison to the Acceptable Macronutrient Distribution Range (AMDR) values which states a 15-25% protein, 20-35% fat and 45-65% carbohydrate macronutrient ratio is ideal.

	Paleo	AMDR
Protein	15%	15-25%
Fat	65%	20-35%
Carbohydrate	20%	45-65%

Therefore the Paleo diet sufficiently meets the recommendations for micronutrients, while only meeting one of the targets of the AMDR values. 

A comparison of the macronutrient ratios for Paleo diet and the AMDR values shows that the protein content of the Paleo diet is within the acceptable range. However the fat content of the Paleo diet is considered too high, and the carbohydrate ratio considered too low in comparison to the AMDR values.

Micronutrients

The micronutrient content of iron, sodium and calcium is also important to consider. While there is limited data on the micronutrient make up of a Paleo diet that adapts modern meals, there is data on the true Paleolithic diet. 

Sodium

In Paleolithic times, the sodium intake was thought to be approximately 768mg per day (Paleo Leap). These are within the adequate intake range of 460-920mg, therefore the Paleo diet meets the intake requirements. 

Calcium

Calcium intake was estimated to be 1800mg per day (Paleo Leap). This is above the recommended daily intake level of 1000mg, but well below the upper level of 2500mg. Thus, the Paleo Diet can be considered to meet the dietary guidelines.

Iron

Either interpretation of the Paleo diet is considered to be very iron rich, and therefore intake levels of iron may be above the recommended intake or adequate intake levels (Chris Kekker, 2012).