A new study published in the journal Nature has shed light on the real Paleo diet, challenging previous assumptions about how ancient humans prepared their food. The study, which analyzed ancient food remains from two archaeological sites in Ethiopia and Kenya, found that early humans were cooking and processing their food much earlier than previously thought, and were not solely reliant on raw or minimally processed foods as was commonly assumed with the popular "Paleo" diet.

The researchers examined ancient hearths and artifacts used for food preparation at the sites, dating back to around 1.8 million years ago and 1.2 million years ago. They found evidence that early humans were using fire to cook food, and were also grinding and pounding plant material to make flour or porridge. This indicates a more sophisticated approach to food preparation and processing than previously assumed.

The study suggests that the Paleo diet, which emphasizes the consumption of raw or minimally processed foods based on the assumption that this is how our ancestors ate, may not be entirely accurate. Ancient humans were more adaptable and resourceful than previously thought, and their diets likely varied depending on the availability of different food sources and the development of new technologies for processing food.

The findings of this study contribute to a growing body of evidence that challenges traditional assumptions about the Paleo diet and shed light on the diverse and evolving dietary practices of our ancient ancestors.