Weston A. Price Foundation Diet
The Weston A. Price Foundation Diet is a traditional diet based on foods that people have been eating for over 400 years.
The organization was founded by Weston Price, DDS, with the intention of spreading the dietary approach of our ancestors to the masses. Dr. Price’s research shows that people reach optimal health by eating nutritious, whole foods with an emphasis on animal fats for their ability to make vitamins and nutrients more available to the body.
The broad Weston A. Price guideline is to eat whole, unprocessed foods. Followers of this lifestyle approach eat pastured meat, poultry, dairy, eggs, wild fish, full-fat, often cultured or fermented dairy products, animal fats, traditional vegetable oils, organic fruits and vegetables (including fermented dishes), soaked and/or sprouted whole grains, legumes, nuts, and homemade meat, poultry, and fish stocks. Unrefined salt, pepper, herbs, and spices are recommended to stimulate the appetite and make food taste good.
Cod liver oil is also core to this diet. Natural sweeteners like raw honey, maple syrup, and date sugar should be used in moderation. Unpasteurized wine and beer should be consumed infrequently with meals.
Outside of food, guidelines include only cooking in cast iron, stainless steel, glass, or enamel, and using only food-based supplements, getting enough sleep, sunlight, exercise, and keeping a positive mindset.
Foods to include:
- Vegetables
- Fruits
- Whole grains
- Pastured meat
- Pastured poultry
- Wild fish
- Pastured eggs
- Beans
- Pastured dairy
- Nuts and seeds
- Healthy oils
Foods to avoid:
- Sugar
- Processed foods
- Refined grains
- Trans fats
- Low-fat and non-fat dairy products
- Commercial meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy
- Farm-raised fish
- Commercial vegetable oils
- Jerky
- Canned fruits and vegetables
Pros:
- Can be a lifestyle rather than a diet
- Wide range of nutrients and flavors
- Less restrictive than many diets
- May lead to weight loss
- Heals hormonal health for some
Cons:
- Challenging for vegans and vegetarians
- Some people can’t tolerate dairy
- Some may require more structure to reach goals
Sources:
The Weston A. Price Foundation www.westonaprice.org (Links to an external site.)
