Troglodytes Were Healthier Than Modern Humans
Ah, the romanticised image of the Paleolithic human—ripped, resilient, and radiating health, all while running barefoot across the savanna. Paleo advocates argue that our Stone Age ancestors were healthier than we are today, free from the chronic diseases that plague modern humans. But were these prehistoric gym bros really the pinnacle of wellness? Let’s dig deeper.
The Claim: Cavemen Were the Picture of Health
The argument goes like this: our Paleolithic ancestors didn’t suffer from diseases like diabetes, heart disease, or obesity because they lived “naturally.” They hunted, gathered, and ate unprocessed foods while we were stuck with desk jobs, fast food, and chronic stress. If only we could return to their lifestyle, we’d be as healthy as they were.
The Reality: It's Not That Simple
Indeed, troglodytes didn’t face modern chronic diseases, but that doesn’t mean they were the ultimate health icons. Their “health” was a combination of lifestyle, environment, and—brace yourself—a lot of luck. Here’s why their supposed healthiness doesn’t paint the whole picture:
- Shorter Lifespans: The average Paleolithic life expectancy was about 30–35 years. Sure, they didn’t live long enough to develop heart disease, but they also didn’t have access to antibiotics, sanitation, or primary medical care. An infected wound or lousy tooth could be a death sentence.
- Different Disease Profiles: Cavemen didn’t have to worry about obesity or type 2 diabetes, but they faced other threats: parasites, malnutrition, and infectious diseases. Their diet and lifestyle didn’t make them invincible—it just gave them different challenges.
- Physical Activity: Yes, they were more active than we are, but that’s because they had no choice. Hunting and gathering weren’t hobbies; they were full-time survival strategies. Modern humans can replicate this activity level with exercise, minus the risk of being trampled by a mammoth.
- Genetics Played a Role: Some of our ancestors likely had genetic predispositions to heart disease or cancer, but they didn’t live long enough for these to manifest. It’s not that troglodytes were healthier—it’s that their lives were, unfortunately, cut short.
The Problem with the Claim
The idea that troglodytes were paragons of health ignores the context of their lives. Their lack of chronic disease wasn’t because they were eating a magical diet; it was because they didn’t live long enough to develop these conditions. Meanwhile, their daily lives were a balancing act of avoiding starvation, predators, and infection.
Why This Myth Persists
It’s tempting to idealise the past, especially when faced with modern health problems. The idea of a “simpler, healthier time” is comforting, even if it’s not entirely accurate. Plus, the Paleo diet fits neatly into this narrative, making it an easy sell.
The Takeaway
Were troglodytes healthier than modern humans? Not really. Their lives were shorter, more complex, and full of risks we can’t imagine today. That said, we can learn something from their focus on whole, unprocessed foods and physical activity—but let’s not pretend they were superhuman. After all, they didn’t have to deal with office politics, but they also didn’t have Advil, running water, or Wi-Fi. Perspective matters.
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