1 May 2025
The Paleo diet is all about going back to our ancestral roots—eating whole, unprocessed foods that our hunter-gatherer ancestors thrived on. It's packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber, all while cutting out processed junk, refined sugars, and grains. But even with the best diet, sometimes we need a little extra support to fill in nutritional gaps. That’s where Paleo-friendly supplements come into play.
If you’re aiming to optimize your health while staying true to Paleo principles, let's talk about the best supplements to support your journey.
Do You Really Need Supplements on a Paleo Diet?
Ideally, a well-planned Paleo diet should provide all the essential nutrients. After all, it focuses on real, nutrient-dense foods. But let’s be real—modern life isn't exactly the same as it was for our ancestors.- We deal with soil depletion, which lowers nutrient levels in our foods.
- Our schedules are packed, making it hard to get every nutrient from diet alone.
- Even with the best intentions, food quality varies, and we may still fall short in some areas.
So while supplements aren’t a replacement for real food, they can be a great way to ensure you’re covering all your bases. Let’s break down the top Paleo-friendly supplements that can help you stay on track with your health goals.
1. Collagen Peptides – For Joint, Skin, and Gut Health
Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body, supporting joints, skin, hair, nails, and even gut health. Unfortunately, modern diets often lack natural collagen sources (since we’re not eating as many bone broths or organ meats as our ancestors did).Adding collagen peptides can:
✔ Support joint and bone health
✔ Improve skin elasticity and hydration
✔ Strengthen hair and nails
✔ Promote a healthy gut lining
Look for grass-fed, pasture-raised collagen peptides to stay true to Paleo principles. Bonus tip: Mix it into your coffee or smoothie—it's tasteless and blends seamlessly!
2. Omega-3 Fish Oil – Reduce Inflammation and Support Heart Health
Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) are essential for reducing inflammation, supporting brain function, and promoting heart health. While fatty fish like salmon and sardines are fantastic sources, not everyone eats them regularly.A high-quality fish oil supplement (preferably wild-caught and molecularly distilled) can help you maintain a balanced omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, which is crucial for reducing chronic inflammation.
✔ Supports brain and cognitive function
✔ Reduces inflammation in the body
✔ Promotes heart and cardiovascular health
If you prefer a plant-based option, algal oil is a great alternative.
3. Vitamin D – Support Immune Function and Bone Health
Our ancestors got plenty of sun exposure, soaking up enough vitamin D naturally. But today? Most of us spend way too much time indoors, leading to deficiencies.Vitamin D is essential for:
✔ Supporting the immune system
✔ Strengthening bones by aiding calcium absorption
✔ Boosting mood and mental well-being
If you're not getting daily sun exposure, a Vitamin D3 supplement (paired with K2) can help optimize absorption and prevent imbalances.
4. Magnesium – The "Relaxation Mineral"
Magnesium is found in foods like leafy greens, nuts, and seeds, but modern soil depletion means even the healthiest diets may fall short. And considering it’s involved in over 300 biochemical reactions, a deficiency can cause:- Muscle cramps
- Poor sleep
- Anxiety and stress
- Low energy levels
To stay Paleo-friendly, opt for magnesium glycinate, citrate, or malate, as they're more bioavailable.
✔ Helps with muscle relaxation and recovery
✔ Supports better sleep and stress reduction
✔ Aids metabolic and nerve function
Don’t forget—Epsom salt baths (rich in magnesium sulfate) are another fantastic way to replenish your magnesium levels naturally.
5. Probiotics – Boost Gut Health and Digestion
Gut health is everything when it comes to well-being. If your gut is out of whack, your digestion, immunity, and even mental health can take a hit. While fermented foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, and kombucha are great, a high-quality probiotic supplement can provide extra support.✔ Helps balance gut bacteria
✔ Supports digestion and nutrient absorption
✔ Strengthens immune function
When choosing a probiotic, look for one with multiple strains, including Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, and no unnecessary fillers.
6. Liver Supplements (Desiccated Liver) – Nature’s Multivitamin
Organ meats are some of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet. Our ancestors ate them regularly, but let’s be honest—not everyone loves the taste of liver.That’s where desiccated liver supplements come in. Made from grass-fed beef liver, they provide a natural source of iron, vitamin A, B vitamins, and essential minerals.
✔ Boosts iron levels (great for those with anemia or fatigue)
✔ Provides essential vitamins and minerals
✔ Supports energy production and immune function
If you’re not a fan of eating liver, capsules are an easy way to get the benefits without the strong taste.
7. Electrolytes – Stay Hydrated and Energized
If you eat a clean Paleo diet, chances are you're not retaining as much water and sodium as someone eating a standard diet. This can sometimes lead to electrolyte imbalances, especially if you're active or following a low-carb approach.Supplementing with Paleo-friendly electrolytes (without added sugars, artificial sweeteners, or fillers) can help:
✔ Improve hydration and muscle function
✔ Prevent headaches and fatigue
✔ Support workouts and endurance
Look for natural sources like coconut water, sea salt, or electrolyte powders with clean ingredients.
8. Grass-Fed Whey or Paleo-Friendly Protein Powders
While whole foods should always come first, sometimes you need a quick and convenient protein boost—especially if you're on the go or have higher protein needs.Grass-fed whey protein is an option for those who tolerate dairy, but if you're fully Paleo, look for:
- Egg white protein powder
- Collagen protein
- Beef isolate protein
Make sure it's free from artificial flavors, sweeteners, and additives to keep it Paleo-approved.
Final Thoughts
Following a Paleo diet already sets you up for success, but the reality is—life happens. Whether it’s soil depletion, busy schedules, or specific health concerns, supplements can help bridge the gap and support your wellness goals.The key? Choose high-quality, clean, and real-food-based supplements that align with your Paleo lifestyle. And remember, supplements are there to enhance a healthy diet, not replace it.
So, which of these do you already take, and which ones are you thinking about adding to your routine? Let me know in the comments!
Benjamin Butler
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May 3, 2025 at 4:57 PM