Friday, January 10, 2014

Paleo Update


My 30 day paleo challenge ended on December 30th.  After I was able to detox my body, the challenge just flew bye.  The first week or two were challenging because of the never ending cravings but eventually I moved past those. Although, the majority of the time that I craved snack foods it was out of boredom. I deteremined that I am a boredom eater. I didn’t think I was guilty of snacking but it’s definitely something I did often without even realizing it.  Through this experience I’ve learned to pay attention to my body signals.  Am I really hungry or just bored?  Most of the time I’m actually thirsty and guzzling water helped subside the food cravings.

I'm fortunate that my husband is so supportive. He's made some really yummy treats for me.
Apples with pecans and almond butter drizzled with honey.

I was reluctant to step on the scale.  Mostly, I was fearful that tiny needle wouldn’t move in a favorable direction.  When I finally stepped on the scale, I wasn’t thrilled with my progress.  I did loose 5lbs.  But it hardly felt like the reward I deserved for my dedication.  Disappointment definitely settled in.  I probably spent the majority of the day sulking in my so called “progress”.  Then I was reminded that the during the 30 day challenge many other paleo followers claimed that they actually gained weight during the detox process. I didn’t so that’s a plus!   After researching more paleo bloggers, I was reminded that the scale is my own worst enemy and that muscle weighs more than fat.  So there’s a high possibility that during the 30 day challenge my body traded in some squish for some lean muscle.  I’m not complaining at all. Bring on the muscle. 
Almond meal cookies with craisins and walnuts

Once I was able to remind myself that my initial goal was focusing on my health and not weight loss, I was able to recharge my enthusiasm.  So where am I today?  I’m still challenging myself to a paleolithic lifestyle.  Truthfully for me, this isn’t a diet.  I believe in the principals of this approach.  I think there is a possibility that we are poisoning ourselves with the food we ingest.  So despite my less than amazing results, I will continue to post updates on my journey.  Hopefully as I learn more about the lifestyle and possibilities out there my progress will be more exciting to report. 

Bacon bowls A-mazing!

If you are on the paleo bandwagon and have some delicious recipes or recommendations, please feel free to send them my way.  
Seeing a side by side comparison of my progress really helps keep me motivated!


2 comments:

  1. Looking good!! I have heard a lot of people talking about paleo, but I just don't think I could do it for the same reason I had issues with Atkins - just not a meat eater. I'm Italian and I need my pasta!! :) Can't wait to hear more about it from you!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks girls! I know the feeling. I miss pasta like whoa. But eventually the craving diminish and it's not so bad.

      Delete