Shan Cooper gained attention for raising her infant daughter on a controversial paleo diet. Grace, now eight years old, has been nourished with fresh produce, eggs, meat, and no processed sugar. Shan, known for her blog ‘My Food Religion,’ shares wholesome recipes using minimally processed ingredients. Grace has thrived on this healthy diet since birth.
The Baby Who Ate No Refined Sugar
At 13 months old, Grace’s meals included eggs cooked in coconut oil, vegetables, roast chicken, avocado, sauerkraut, and organic beef. Desserts were rare, except for Shan’s homemade strawberry panna cotta without refined sugar on Grace’s first birthday.
In 2015, Shan revealed that Grace had fallen ill only once, attributing her strong immune system to her nutrient-rich diet. “She’s constantly surrounded by sick kids but remains healthy.” said Shan. “I’m convinced her diet is the reason for her strong immune system.“
Shan adopted the paleo diet to address her own food allergies, gradually eliminating gluten, dairy, and processed foods. “I was tired of feeling unwell and decided to make a change,” she explained.
The paleo diet, inspired by ancestral eating habits, emphasizes lean meat, fish, fruits, vegetables, seeds, and nuts while excluding refined sugar, grains, legumes, dairy, and processed foods. Critics argue that it may overlook beneficial nutrients found in grains, legumes, and dairy.
“I am not Paleo…”
Shan loosely follows the paleo diet but doesn’t strictly adhere to it. She combines aspects from various dietary approaches to suit her well-being. “I don’t subscribe to strict dietary labels,” she states.
While preparing fresh meals daily requires effort, Shan isn’t overly strict with Grace’s diet. She aims to foster a healthy relationship with food and allows room for occasional indulgences. “Grace’s diet is just everyday food that she loves,” Shan says.
Creating a Healthy Relationship with Food
“I want Grace to eat what makes her feel good and avoid disordered eating patterns,” Shan emphasizes. Grace occasionally enjoys typical childhood treats, promoting balance and an understanding of food choices.
Despite her unique diet, Grace has tried candy at parties. Shan believes in finding a balance between nutritious foods and occasional indulgences for overall well-being.
Sources
- “The baby girl who has never eaten a carb: Meet Grace, who has been on the Paleo diet since birth – and her fitness fanatic mum says she has only been sick once in her life.” Daily Mail. November 1, 2018
- “Paleo diet: What is it and why is it so popular?” Mayo Clinic. August 25, 2020.
- “A bit about me…” My Food Religion. Shan Cooper.
- “Meet Shan Cooper, the Mom Who Will Help You Find Healthy Alternatives for Your Kiddos.” Mama’s Cut. Sara Vallone. July 30, 2022
