The results are in. This week has been frought with lack of sleep and a visit from TOM. The last couple of days I've been somewhat out of it (lack of sleep I believe), so I've fallen behind on my water intake and forgot to eat until midday. I also forgot to take my vitamins. Today I'm going to catch up on my water, eat breakfast (it's 10:30 and I've only been up about 30 minutes), and take my vitamins. Despite my poor habits the last couple of days...drum rollo please...
I lost TWO more pounds! That's a total of 6 1/2!
To give myself credit - I worked out on weights 3 days this week. Hubby tells me to expect to be tired the first two weeks - I believe it!
Saturday, July 21, 2007
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
When the going gets tough...
the tough stay on track! The last couple of days have been rough. I'm suffering from lack of sleep. Hubbie and son came home from camping Sunday night. I fixed dinner late and ate late. Since then I've been unable to get my sleep back on track. Last night I drank chamomile tea and took a warm ginger bath. It was after midnight when I finally gave up and took a Lunesta. I'm going to go and buy some Celestial Seasons Sleepy Time tea today and give it a try tonight.
Yesterday due to a lack of sleep, I just didn't feel good. I slacked off on my water, and didn't even feel like eating. Around 3, I finally ate a small amount of fruit. For dinner I fixed butterfly porkchops, creamed red potatoes, and green beans. Speaking of potatoes - I was CRAVING carbs...big time! So I had potatoes as an alternate to all of the processed food I could have indulged in. Yes - I used real cream and real butter. Yum! And I don't have a problem with it on a diet. The potatoes satisfied my carb cravings and calmed me down. Then I practically ate an entire watermelon by myself (I LOVE watermelon and they were on sale for $2!).
This morning I hopped on the scale. I LOST another 2 1/2 pounds! Let's hope it sticks (and keeps falling) before my official weigh in on Saturday. The best part is I FINALLY broke through a plateau. Everytime I've tried to lose weight in the last several months, I could not get past this stubborn 1/2 pound. The scale just stopped and wouldn't budge (except for up of course). Well, now I busted it! Yippee!
P.S. I went to the Y on Monday and lifted weights. I'm going back today.
Yesterday due to a lack of sleep, I just didn't feel good. I slacked off on my water, and didn't even feel like eating. Around 3, I finally ate a small amount of fruit. For dinner I fixed butterfly porkchops, creamed red potatoes, and green beans. Speaking of potatoes - I was CRAVING carbs...big time! So I had potatoes as an alternate to all of the processed food I could have indulged in. Yes - I used real cream and real butter. Yum! And I don't have a problem with it on a diet. The potatoes satisfied my carb cravings and calmed me down. Then I practically ate an entire watermelon by myself (I LOVE watermelon and they were on sale for $2!).
This morning I hopped on the scale. I LOST another 2 1/2 pounds! Let's hope it sticks (and keeps falling) before my official weigh in on Saturday. The best part is I FINALLY broke through a plateau. Everytime I've tried to lose weight in the last several months, I could not get past this stubborn 1/2 pound. The scale just stopped and wouldn't budge (except for up of course). Well, now I busted it! Yippee!
P.S. I went to the Y on Monday and lifted weights. I'm going back today.
Monday, July 16, 2007
One Day Menu - Post 1
Breakfast
Quinoa w/strawberries, bananas, flax, cinnamon, fiber powerder and two tbsp. of milk.
Snacks
2 cups of fruit (any kind)
1 apple with almond butter
V-8 juice
Lunch
Plate of raw fruits and vegetables: broccoli, tomatoes, carrots, cantelope, grapes, kiwi (pick your own combo)
Dinner
Grilled chicken, corn on the cob (rolled in butter w/garlic salt and pepper - unlike most diets, I don't have a problem with butter), steamed (sliced) zuchinni and squash, and tomato slices with Italian seasonings - sauted in olive oil
Water
12 cups per day + 2 cups for every cup of coffee, 2 cups during exercise, & 2 cups when outside in the heat
Discussion:
1. I choose healthy snacks. I should juice my own vegetables, but I don't have a Vita-Mix (it's on the wish list), so I stick with V-8 - it's the best I can do at this time.
2. Raw vegies and fruits are easy to prepare and easy to carry to work. Chop, chop and throw in plastic baggies or bowls. If you need some protein add a couple of boiled eggs, some almond butter or peanut butter, or a protein shake. If I have dinner leftovers, I always start there.
3. About butter. Have you read "The Swarzbein Principle"? http://www.schwarzbeinprinciple.com/ I have come to the conclusion that real butter and cream is not bad for you. I've lost weight while eating it. I have serious concerns about eating fake, chemical filled butter. I realize this is a hard one to buy, but visit Dr. Schwarzbein's website and read her book. She says you can have real mayo too, but I think she means the stuff you buy at the health food store, and it just doesn't look right to me, so I'll skip the mayo.
4. The cup of water on the hour, every waking hour works! In fact, I'm drinking about 16 cups a day.
Quinoa w/strawberries, bananas, flax, cinnamon, fiber powerder and two tbsp. of milk.
Snacks
2 cups of fruit (any kind)
1 apple with almond butter
V-8 juice
Lunch
Plate of raw fruits and vegetables: broccoli, tomatoes, carrots, cantelope, grapes, kiwi (pick your own combo)
Dinner
Grilled chicken, corn on the cob (rolled in butter w/garlic salt and pepper - unlike most diets, I don't have a problem with butter), steamed (sliced) zuchinni and squash, and tomato slices with Italian seasonings - sauted in olive oil
Water
12 cups per day + 2 cups for every cup of coffee, 2 cups during exercise, & 2 cups when outside in the heat
Discussion:
1. I choose healthy snacks. I should juice my own vegetables, but I don't have a Vita-Mix (it's on the wish list), so I stick with V-8 - it's the best I can do at this time.
2. Raw vegies and fruits are easy to prepare and easy to carry to work. Chop, chop and throw in plastic baggies or bowls. If you need some protein add a couple of boiled eggs, some almond butter or peanut butter, or a protein shake. If I have dinner leftovers, I always start there.
3. About butter. Have you read "The Swarzbein Principle"? http://www.schwarzbeinprinciple.com/ I have come to the conclusion that real butter and cream is not bad for you. I've lost weight while eating it. I have serious concerns about eating fake, chemical filled butter. I realize this is a hard one to buy, but visit Dr. Schwarzbein's website and read her book. She says you can have real mayo too, but I think she means the stuff you buy at the health food store, and it just doesn't look right to me, so I'll skip the mayo.
4. The cup of water on the hour, every waking hour works! In fact, I'm drinking about 16 cups a day.
Sunday, July 15, 2007
A Visit from TOM
Back in May I spent 3 weeks (a record for me) in one of my "I'm getting healthy and losing weight diets." I did lose weight, but as usual, I busted out and got back off track. There is one thing I noticed that is worth noting. This particular diet event happened to coincide with a visit from TOM. I was eating healthier (but not quite as healthy as I am now) and I was drinking water (but not nearly enough) during these weeks. TOM came and went. It occurred to me that I spent the time emotionally calmer, my headaches (I get migraines) were not as bad, and TOM was lighter and shorter. Could there be a connection between my diet and PMS?
Yesterday TOM visited exactly one week early. He totally surprised me! No emotional issues (anger and watershed tears over nothing), no bloating, no cramping, no signs! Today I cramped a bit when I first got up, but after catching up on my water for the morning (I slept late), the cramps went away. TOM is very light. What's up with this? You mean eating healthy will make TOM nicer? The jury is still out. If the trend continues then I'll be convinced. Keep in mind I'm premeno, so TOM has been rather harsh the last few years. Throw out the junk and give me the good stuff. I can live without monthly migraines, cramps, bloating, and mood swings.
Yesterday TOM visited exactly one week early. He totally surprised me! No emotional issues (anger and watershed tears over nothing), no bloating, no cramping, no signs! Today I cramped a bit when I first got up, but after catching up on my water for the morning (I slept late), the cramps went away. TOM is very light. What's up with this? You mean eating healthy will make TOM nicer? The jury is still out. If the trend continues then I'll be convinced. Keep in mind I'm premeno, so TOM has been rather harsh the last few years. Throw out the junk and give me the good stuff. I can live without monthly migraines, cramps, bloating, and mood swings.
Saturday, July 14, 2007
Report on Quinoa
Have you tried quinoa yet? I've abandoned all grains including wheat and oatmeal, but then I read about quinoa. It's called the "super grain". Supposedly it's really healthy. It expands when you cook it, and apparently it expands in your stomach causing you to feel full. For 1/3 cup (remember - it expands) you will only get 160 calories and 2.5 grams of fat. No saturated or trans fat. There are 30 carbs, but if you eat it as breakfast (instead of oatmeal) then it's just fine, or with dinner (including protein and vegetables) like a rice then you are keeping your carbs to recommended portions (American Diabetes Association). Now here is the best part...it has 3 grams of fiber and 6 grams of protein. It also has natural vitamins and minerals (including calcium).
So this morning I decided to try it in place of oatmeal. It's easy to cook. You just boil it in water until the water cooks down (about 15 minutes). I added flax, fiber (tasteless fiber powder from the Vitamin Shoppe), bananas, strawberries, cinnamon, a little milk, and a small handfull of walnuts.
The taste is light. It's as good if not better tasting than oatmeal. The texture is a little different, but not bothersome. I was able to eat the whole bowl without feeling like I was eating something yucky. It's really good. It's my new breakfast cereal!
Next I'll try it with dinner. Apparently it can be eaten like a rice pilaf.
I bought a package at the health food store. I wanted to try it first. It's expensive there, but I found a website where you can get it cheap if you are willing to buy more of it (that's why I tried it first). For a 25 pd. bag...http://www.incaorganics.com/quinoa.htm
Quinoa can be used for a variety of recipes including soups and desserts. I am looking forward to experiementing with this new food.
So this morning I decided to try it in place of oatmeal. It's easy to cook. You just boil it in water until the water cooks down (about 15 minutes). I added flax, fiber (tasteless fiber powder from the Vitamin Shoppe), bananas, strawberries, cinnamon, a little milk, and a small handfull of walnuts.
The taste is light. It's as good if not better tasting than oatmeal. The texture is a little different, but not bothersome. I was able to eat the whole bowl without feeling like I was eating something yucky. It's really good. It's my new breakfast cereal!
Next I'll try it with dinner. Apparently it can be eaten like a rice pilaf.
I bought a package at the health food store. I wanted to try it first. It's expensive there, but I found a website where you can get it cheap if you are willing to buy more of it (that's why I tried it first). For a 25 pd. bag...http://www.incaorganics.com/quinoa.htm
Quinoa can be used for a variety of recipes including soups and desserts. I am looking forward to experiementing with this new food.
Week One Results
This past week I've limited my diet to fruit, vegetables, chicken, eggs, one steak, and two Jay Robb Whey Protein Shakes. I've added 8-12 cups of water per day (It took me all week to figure out the best way to get all 12 cups of water in...one cup an hour.), and supplemented with a multivitamin pack and spirulina. Yesterday I added Aloe Vera capsules to my regimen. I also drank 1-2 cups of coffee each morning, iced tea w/Stevia a about four times during the week, and chamomile tea at night. I have NOT felt hungry. My energy is slowly returning.
My two digressions...
One night I gave in to my daughter and had pizza...bad, bad, bad...
I traveled to Louisiana. I had a lunch portion of shrimp etoufee (sp?). It was so good, but even though it was small, it made me feel bloated. The rice was white (brown would have been better), and I don't even want to know what they put in the rue (white flour and sugar probably).
Now for the results...dudu...dudundundu...I LOST 4 1/2 pounds in seven days! Yahoo! Yipee! Woohoo!
My two digressions...
One night I gave in to my daughter and had pizza...bad, bad, bad...
I traveled to Louisiana. I had a lunch portion of shrimp etoufee (sp?). It was so good, but even though it was small, it made me feel bloated. The rice was white (brown would have been better), and I don't even want to know what they put in the rue (white flour and sugar probably).
Now for the results...dudu...dudundundu...I LOST 4 1/2 pounds in seven days! Yahoo! Yipee! Woohoo!
Friday, July 13, 2007
Weight Loss Tricks
Here are some tricks I've figured out on my weight loss journey:
1. Drink 1 cup of water every hour on the hour to ensure hydration. Drink extra water if you drink coffee or tea, exercise, or go outside in the heat.
2. Remove processed food from your pantry and refrigerator. Donate it or throw it out. I keep one small area with "kid" foods (I should get rid of those too...one challenge at a time).
3. Divide your plate in half. Fill one half w/raw or steamed vegetables. Divide your second half in half. Fill one part with lean protein and one half with fruit.
4. Drink 2 cups of water 20 minutes before eating a meal. Do not drink anything during a meal except for a few sips of water to aid swallowing. This helps with digestion.
5. Do not eat 3 hours before bedtime. Only drink a moderate amount of water or herbal tea.
6. Get 8 hours of sleep at night. Help sleep with a cup of chamomile tea one hour before bedtime, a warm bath, or a small protein/fruit snack (apple and almond butter). Newly washed sheets, a dark room, and soft sounds (such as a waterfall / music cd) will help aide sleep.
7. Say this prayer each day:
Dear God,
Thank you for this wonderful day. I surrender my body, health, and weight loss to your care. I ask that you remove all excess and unnecessary weight from my body by giving me the strength to exercise and eat healthy. Return my body to a healthy state. Give me eating habits that support my health. Teach me to love my body and care for it from this day forth. Amen.
8. Remember this Bible verse: I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me. - Phillipians 4:13.
1. Drink 1 cup of water every hour on the hour to ensure hydration. Drink extra water if you drink coffee or tea, exercise, or go outside in the heat.
2. Remove processed food from your pantry and refrigerator. Donate it or throw it out. I keep one small area with "kid" foods (I should get rid of those too...one challenge at a time).
3. Divide your plate in half. Fill one half w/raw or steamed vegetables. Divide your second half in half. Fill one part with lean protein and one half with fruit.
4. Drink 2 cups of water 20 minutes before eating a meal. Do not drink anything during a meal except for a few sips of water to aid swallowing. This helps with digestion.
5. Do not eat 3 hours before bedtime. Only drink a moderate amount of water or herbal tea.
6. Get 8 hours of sleep at night. Help sleep with a cup of chamomile tea one hour before bedtime, a warm bath, or a small protein/fruit snack (apple and almond butter). Newly washed sheets, a dark room, and soft sounds (such as a waterfall / music cd) will help aide sleep.
7. Say this prayer each day:
Dear God,
Thank you for this wonderful day. I surrender my body, health, and weight loss to your care. I ask that you remove all excess and unnecessary weight from my body by giving me the strength to exercise and eat healthy. Return my body to a healthy state. Give me eating habits that support my health. Teach me to love my body and care for it from this day forth. Amen.
8. Remember this Bible verse: I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me. - Phillipians 4:13.
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Sleep
I've been having trouble sleeping for some time now. I have a tendency to lay awake for a long time before finally falling asleep. I can't seem to get my mind to turn off. And then I wake up during the night. Needless to say, I wake up feeling drowsy and tired.
I would love to wake up full of life and energy with a spring in my step. Who wouldn't?
I'm working on sleep. I'm going to bed at an hour that leaves me 8 full hours of sleeping time. I bought a natural wake-up clock. I am going to get calcium and magnesium to take an hour before bedtime. I'm also not eating or drinking anything 2-3 hours before bedtime (except for a few sips of water and chamomile tea). I've been drinking the chamomile tea. It's really helping. I'm falling asleep and staying asleep throughout the night. I still feel tired when I wake up, but I think that will change as my body begins to feel the effects of adequate hydration and proper nourishment.
I would love to wake up full of life and energy with a spring in my step. Who wouldn't?
I'm working on sleep. I'm going to bed at an hour that leaves me 8 full hours of sleeping time. I bought a natural wake-up clock. I am going to get calcium and magnesium to take an hour before bedtime. I'm also not eating or drinking anything 2-3 hours before bedtime (except for a few sips of water and chamomile tea). I've been drinking the chamomile tea. It's really helping. I'm falling asleep and staying asleep throughout the night. I still feel tired when I wake up, but I think that will change as my body begins to feel the effects of adequate hydration and proper nourishment.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Surviving Travel
I went on an overnight trip. How do you survive eating on the road? I took along water bottles and drank water the entire trip. We stopped at Cracker Barrel. I love their dumplings. I love their high carb foods and bottled root beer. I ordered grilled chicken tenderloins and 3 vegetables (only 1 starchy vegetable). For the first time ever (eating at Cracker Barrel that is), I felt full and satistified without HURTING! Hmmm...
I was able to survive the rest of the trip on protein, vegetables, and fruit from a buffet at the hotel restaurant. I was up very late - 1:30 a.m. I hit a starvation moment. I was so hungry I went to the all night cafe. I passed on the amazing looking pastries filled with sugar and chemicals. Instead I had an omelet and skipped the bread. It can be done! You can't totally avoid everything bad (chemicals, preservatives, additives, too much fat and sugar secretly in some foods) when you are out and about, but you can choose a reasonable meal virtually anywhere. Even McDonalds has salad. I suppose you could take a blender and ice chest and live off raw foods and smoothies. I'm not there yet, but I know there are people in the world who do things like that. Getting healthy and staying healthy is serious business.
In the morning I'll see what the effect of my travels were on my waistline.
I was able to survive the rest of the trip on protein, vegetables, and fruit from a buffet at the hotel restaurant. I was up very late - 1:30 a.m. I hit a starvation moment. I was so hungry I went to the all night cafe. I passed on the amazing looking pastries filled with sugar and chemicals. Instead I had an omelet and skipped the bread. It can be done! You can't totally avoid everything bad (chemicals, preservatives, additives, too much fat and sugar secretly in some foods) when you are out and about, but you can choose a reasonable meal virtually anywhere. Even McDonalds has salad. I suppose you could take a blender and ice chest and live off raw foods and smoothies. I'm not there yet, but I know there are people in the world who do things like that. Getting healthy and staying healthy is serious business.
In the morning I'll see what the effect of my travels were on my waistline.
Monday, July 9, 2007
Food First
I've been thinking about something. Grocery stores are big, really big. They appear to have lots and lots and lots of food, but do they really? I think you can find food in two places in the grocery store - in the fruits and vegetables section and the meat section. That's it. The rest of the store is boxed, canned, and otherwised filled with additives, preservatives, chemicals, and heaven only knows what else. I think that's the real reason America is fat, children have ADHD, and people are living with and dying from diseases like cancer and diabetes. Seriously. It's a scary thought.
I've been thinking about what goes in my mouth. I'm not thinking about calories or carbs or fat. I'm thinking about chemicals - man made chemicals, and I'm wondering - do I have stupid written on my forehead everytime I pop one of these chemicals into my mouth and declare it food?
I've been trying to buy organic fruits and vegetables whenever possible. The idea of swallowing pesticides...well...
I buy organic, hormone free, free range meat and eggs. So that's a start.
But I also have eaten my fair share of sugar chemicals. That might explain the fat, excema, asthma, migraines, fatigue, and pre-diabetes.
I've bought into the "healthy" foods ad campaigns. I've eaten so-called health food bars, low-fat foods, low-carb foods, so-called no sugar foods (yeah right -what about the carbs - carbs break down into sugar - even I know that - duh), and more. I switched from white to wheat and learned that I'm sensitive to wheat and other grains. Could it be that grains are for cows and horses and not for people? Hmmm... I used fake eggs and fake butter. I've bought boxes and cans and bags. No wonder my food bill is so high. It occurred to me that for all the nutrition I don't get from all of those hyped up packages, I'm really paying for "cute" cardboard and plastic containers. Oh joy.
One time I did an experiment. For one week I ate whole fruit and vegetables, chicken, and lean beef. I lost SEVEN pounds! Why didn't I repeat that? Laziness. Busyness. Life. But I've thought about it, and I've tried it again in small spurts. I've noticed that when I eat REAL food without additives, chemicals, or sugar - I lose weight. When I add back bread, cereal, oatmeal - I gain weight. So what does that mean?
I think I need to make some changes. Change is hard. Living without sugar is HARD. But it occurs to me that I'd like to live, and I'd like to be healthy so I can enjoy living.
A couple of years ago my family went to the Smoky Mountains. We walked a mile trail that nearly killed me. I never huffed and puffed so much in my life. We thought we were going to see a waterfall, but apparently we took the wrong fork in the trail. I swore I would get in shape and see that waterfall. That was a couple of years ago.
So what is it going to take to motivate my butt?
This past year has been difficult. I feel bad all the time. I totally run out of energy by 1:00 in the afternoon. I'm cranky, moody, depressed, fatigued, and just misereable. I began to recognize the significance of my health effectiving my life around February of 2007. Since then I've been reading, trying different things, and trying to find my life motivator. I guess you just have to decide.
That's why I'm blogging. I'm deciding out loud.
The last three days I've eaten primarily chicken, eggs, vegetables, and fruit. I had one transgression on Saturday night - pizza. Slap my hand already. I am taking the multi-million dollar vitamins I bought (I actually took these vitamins for a solid month and really did feel better. Why did I stop? I don't know. I'm bad about starting and stopping.), spirulina, extra fiber, and flax. For those interested I buy my vitamins from www.womentowomen.com. They are high quality and loaded with vitamins and minerals. The best part is your daily supply comes in a small package for conveniently throwing into a purse, pocket, or lunch kit. (This endorsement is my personal opinion. I do not get anything for mentioning these vitamins or linking to their site.)
I've also been drinking water. Tons of water. And adding Celtic Sea Salt to my water.
Guess what? I'm not hungry. In fact, I'm super full. I weigh myself daily. I am losing weight, but I will only record my weight loss or gain once a week. In fact, I'm going to add a weight loss ticker to this blog.
This is my eating plan: eat lean protein, eggs, vegetables, and fruit. Supplement with vitamins, spirulina (I learned about spirulina from the health ranger...go to http://www.truthpublishing.com/chlorellaspirulina_p/pdf-cat21249.htm for a free ebook by Mike Adams. It's very impressive.), Jay Robb Whey Protein shakes, and fiber (from the Vitamin Shoppe). I made the first protein shake this evening.
My recipe:
1 1/2 scoops chocolate whey protein
4 strawberries
1/2 small banana
1 tbsp. fiber
1 tbsp. ground flax
4 ice cubes
Blend it up and drink it up. It was light and frothy. It tasted more like strawberries and was pink in color. There was NO after taste! You cannot taste the fiber or flax.
I'm also drinking 12 cups of water a day. My bladder loves me.
That's my plan. I'm also planning on avoiding processed food, sugar, flour, and grains. I am going to try quinoa. I read up on it and I think it's worth a try. Some people call it a "super grain" due to the high protein (the highest in a plant), calcium, vitamins, and minerals. They also say it feels up your tummy so you feel full. I like that idea.
Another thing I'm going to add is CoQ10. I get migraines. I read studies showed it makes a difference. I ordered a natural oil for migraines as well. If it works - I will report back. Actually, if it works, I'll SHOUT it out loud to the world! I also drink herbal tea. And I confess I drink coffee. I'm not ready to give up my one vice. I am trying to cut down to one cup and 1/2 caffeine, 1/2 decaf. Eventually I'll wean myself off of it, but not yet.
This is important. I stopped using sucralose months ago. I linked it to stomach pain. I had the same problem with asparteme. I've been reading up on these fake sugars. Chemicals...no wonder. I use Stevia exclusively. It has made a REAL difference. I keep a bottle in my purse for tea at restaurants.
I don't think I'll feel better overnight. I don't think my aches, pains, and ailments will miraculously heal in a few days, but I do believe there is hope. I will stick to my plan; testing, reflecting, and changing as I educate myself and learn. I am going for optimal weight and optimal health.
Exercise? Another blog...another day...
I've been thinking about what goes in my mouth. I'm not thinking about calories or carbs or fat. I'm thinking about chemicals - man made chemicals, and I'm wondering - do I have stupid written on my forehead everytime I pop one of these chemicals into my mouth and declare it food?
I've been trying to buy organic fruits and vegetables whenever possible. The idea of swallowing pesticides...well...
I buy organic, hormone free, free range meat and eggs. So that's a start.
But I also have eaten my fair share of sugar chemicals. That might explain the fat, excema, asthma, migraines, fatigue, and pre-diabetes.
I've bought into the "healthy" foods ad campaigns. I've eaten so-called health food bars, low-fat foods, low-carb foods, so-called no sugar foods (yeah right -what about the carbs - carbs break down into sugar - even I know that - duh), and more. I switched from white to wheat and learned that I'm sensitive to wheat and other grains. Could it be that grains are for cows and horses and not for people? Hmmm... I used fake eggs and fake butter. I've bought boxes and cans and bags. No wonder my food bill is so high. It occurred to me that for all the nutrition I don't get from all of those hyped up packages, I'm really paying for "cute" cardboard and plastic containers. Oh joy.
One time I did an experiment. For one week I ate whole fruit and vegetables, chicken, and lean beef. I lost SEVEN pounds! Why didn't I repeat that? Laziness. Busyness. Life. But I've thought about it, and I've tried it again in small spurts. I've noticed that when I eat REAL food without additives, chemicals, or sugar - I lose weight. When I add back bread, cereal, oatmeal - I gain weight. So what does that mean?
I think I need to make some changes. Change is hard. Living without sugar is HARD. But it occurs to me that I'd like to live, and I'd like to be healthy so I can enjoy living.
A couple of years ago my family went to the Smoky Mountains. We walked a mile trail that nearly killed me. I never huffed and puffed so much in my life. We thought we were going to see a waterfall, but apparently we took the wrong fork in the trail. I swore I would get in shape and see that waterfall. That was a couple of years ago.
So what is it going to take to motivate my butt?
This past year has been difficult. I feel bad all the time. I totally run out of energy by 1:00 in the afternoon. I'm cranky, moody, depressed, fatigued, and just misereable. I began to recognize the significance of my health effectiving my life around February of 2007. Since then I've been reading, trying different things, and trying to find my life motivator. I guess you just have to decide.
That's why I'm blogging. I'm deciding out loud.
The last three days I've eaten primarily chicken, eggs, vegetables, and fruit. I had one transgression on Saturday night - pizza. Slap my hand already. I am taking the multi-million dollar vitamins I bought (I actually took these vitamins for a solid month and really did feel better. Why did I stop? I don't know. I'm bad about starting and stopping.), spirulina, extra fiber, and flax. For those interested I buy my vitamins from www.womentowomen.com. They are high quality and loaded with vitamins and minerals. The best part is your daily supply comes in a small package for conveniently throwing into a purse, pocket, or lunch kit. (This endorsement is my personal opinion. I do not get anything for mentioning these vitamins or linking to their site.)
I've also been drinking water. Tons of water. And adding Celtic Sea Salt to my water.
Guess what? I'm not hungry. In fact, I'm super full. I weigh myself daily. I am losing weight, but I will only record my weight loss or gain once a week. In fact, I'm going to add a weight loss ticker to this blog.
This is my eating plan: eat lean protein, eggs, vegetables, and fruit. Supplement with vitamins, spirulina (I learned about spirulina from the health ranger...go to http://www.truthpublishing.com/chlorellaspirulina_p/pdf-cat21249.htm for a free ebook by Mike Adams. It's very impressive.), Jay Robb Whey Protein shakes, and fiber (from the Vitamin Shoppe). I made the first protein shake this evening.
My recipe:
1 1/2 scoops chocolate whey protein
4 strawberries
1/2 small banana
1 tbsp. fiber
1 tbsp. ground flax
4 ice cubes
Blend it up and drink it up. It was light and frothy. It tasted more like strawberries and was pink in color. There was NO after taste! You cannot taste the fiber or flax.
I'm also drinking 12 cups of water a day. My bladder loves me.
That's my plan. I'm also planning on avoiding processed food, sugar, flour, and grains. I am going to try quinoa. I read up on it and I think it's worth a try. Some people call it a "super grain" due to the high protein (the highest in a plant), calcium, vitamins, and minerals. They also say it feels up your tummy so you feel full. I like that idea.
Another thing I'm going to add is CoQ10. I get migraines. I read studies showed it makes a difference. I ordered a natural oil for migraines as well. If it works - I will report back. Actually, if it works, I'll SHOUT it out loud to the world! I also drink herbal tea. And I confess I drink coffee. I'm not ready to give up my one vice. I am trying to cut down to one cup and 1/2 caffeine, 1/2 decaf. Eventually I'll wean myself off of it, but not yet.
This is important. I stopped using sucralose months ago. I linked it to stomach pain. I had the same problem with asparteme. I've been reading up on these fake sugars. Chemicals...no wonder. I use Stevia exclusively. It has made a REAL difference. I keep a bottle in my purse for tea at restaurants.
I don't think I'll feel better overnight. I don't think my aches, pains, and ailments will miraculously heal in a few days, but I do believe there is hope. I will stick to my plan; testing, reflecting, and changing as I educate myself and learn. I am going for optimal weight and optimal health.
Exercise? Another blog...another day...
Water - Is it the fountain of youth?
I've been reading tons of articles and books about water. Ok...duh...I know I should drink water. I tend to drink water, tea, and coffee. Sometimes I pop a diet soda. I have drawn some conclusions over time. Conclusion 1: soft drinks and diet drinks are dangerous to my health and my waistline. Conclusion 2: herbal teas and black tea is fine in moderation. Conclusion 3: the jury is still out on coffee. Conclusion 4: drink water.
So I'm working to drink water. I need 12 cups a day. I'm basing this on my weight. Take your weight and divide it in half - that's how many ounces of water you need each day. Water is a life giving force. It's important to stay hydrated. Drinking water when you are thirsty is too late. Dry mouth is a sign of early dehydration. Water is a weight loss wonder. I've tried lots and lots of different weight loss programs. The only true consistency among weight loss programs is water.
So I'm convinced...now to get the stuff down my throat. I actually like water, but drinking 12 cups is tough. First, I drink filtered or bottled mineral or spring water. If I'm going to drink 12 cups, by gosh, I'm going to drink quality water. All water is not created equal, and tap water is loaded with things I don't even want to think about. I like Fiji water, but it's expensive, so I'm searching out alternatives.
After all of my research on water, I've learned it's important to add salt to water. Not just any salt...You need 1/4 tsp. per liter. It's important for your body. I'm using Celtic Sea Salt right now. I bought it at a health food store. The water does not taste salty (in case you were wondering). When I finish off this bottle, I'm going to try Himilayan salt.
Sometimes I get tired of just plain water. I jazz up my water with slices of either lemon, lime, oranges, or cucumbers (cucumber water tastes great - got the idea from a local spa).
I've read in countless places that water can enhance your health. Your skin will look better, you will feel better, and numerous diseases will disappear. I'm sure some people find that hard to believe...so the jury is out. I'm going to hydrate myself daily and report back. I'll let you know how I'm doing with the water, and if I'm seeing an improvement in my health. I have no doubt it will help in weight loss.
If you want to learn more about water visit www.watercure.com
Also, I just finished reading the first chapter (all about water) in Dr. Don Colbert's new book, The Seven Pillars of Health. I picked it up at Walmart last night. So far, so good. He explains water in depth, but in an easy, friendly manner. It's an easy read.
So I'm working to drink water. I need 12 cups a day. I'm basing this on my weight. Take your weight and divide it in half - that's how many ounces of water you need each day. Water is a life giving force. It's important to stay hydrated. Drinking water when you are thirsty is too late. Dry mouth is a sign of early dehydration. Water is a weight loss wonder. I've tried lots and lots of different weight loss programs. The only true consistency among weight loss programs is water.
So I'm convinced...now to get the stuff down my throat. I actually like water, but drinking 12 cups is tough. First, I drink filtered or bottled mineral or spring water. If I'm going to drink 12 cups, by gosh, I'm going to drink quality water. All water is not created equal, and tap water is loaded with things I don't even want to think about. I like Fiji water, but it's expensive, so I'm searching out alternatives.
After all of my research on water, I've learned it's important to add salt to water. Not just any salt...You need 1/4 tsp. per liter. It's important for your body. I'm using Celtic Sea Salt right now. I bought it at a health food store. The water does not taste salty (in case you were wondering). When I finish off this bottle, I'm going to try Himilayan salt.
Sometimes I get tired of just plain water. I jazz up my water with slices of either lemon, lime, oranges, or cucumbers (cucumber water tastes great - got the idea from a local spa).
I've read in countless places that water can enhance your health. Your skin will look better, you will feel better, and numerous diseases will disappear. I'm sure some people find that hard to believe...so the jury is out. I'm going to hydrate myself daily and report back. I'll let you know how I'm doing with the water, and if I'm seeing an improvement in my health. I have no doubt it will help in weight loss.
If you want to learn more about water visit www.watercure.com
Also, I just finished reading the first chapter (all about water) in Dr. Don Colbert's new book, The Seven Pillars of Health. I picked it up at Walmart last night. So far, so good. He explains water in depth, but in an easy, friendly manner. It's an easy read.
Sunday, July 8, 2007
My Story
My grandmother used to call me "skinny bones." In high school I drank huge milkshakes in an attempt to gain weight. People use to tease that I would blow away with the least bit of wind. I was skinny...very skinny.
The foods I recall eating as a child are limited. I remember fried chicken, spaghetti, chicken and dumplings, meatloaf, hamburgers, potatoes, pizza, cake, pie, cookies, candy, bread, crackers, cheese, and cereals. I did eat some fruits (not daily). Vegetable consisted of tomatoes and cucumbers (but not daily). I drank tea, soda, and some cola.
At age 24, I weighed 95 lbs. I drank Coke morning till night and smoked 3 packs of cigarettes a day. My diet didn't change much from childhood. And then I got married and pregnant.
During my pregnancy I stopped smoking and stopped drinking Coke. I drank Diet Coke occassionally, but I really didn't care for the taste, so I stuck to tea, juice, and water.
At 6 months, I was huge. I was diagnosed with gestational diabetes. I gained 75 pounds. Imagine stretching a 95 lb. body by 75 lbs. in 9 months...
It's 2007. I am 40 years old. My first child is fourteen. I am still 5'4 with a small frame, but now my frame carries 218 lbs. I have migraines, excema, asthma, and pre-diabetes. I am tired, stressed, and uncomfortable. I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired.
I've tried numerous diets with minor results. I've gone in spurts where I would eat healthy and exercise. My spurts tend to last two weeks. I've lost and gained 10 lbs. more times that I can count. I've read countless books, magazine and internet articles on health, fitness, and nutrition. I've started and quit oodles of programs. The truth is - I know what to do. It's a matter of making myself do it. This is where the blog comes in. I'm going to journal my way to health and fitness. Durning my journey, I will share all I've learned from reading and research, and apply it to my own life. I will share my results. My hope is to motivate myself and inspire others.
If you would like to join me in my journey, please make comments for a collective commentary journal. Today is the first day of my new life.
I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me. - Phillipians 4:13
The foods I recall eating as a child are limited. I remember fried chicken, spaghetti, chicken and dumplings, meatloaf, hamburgers, potatoes, pizza, cake, pie, cookies, candy, bread, crackers, cheese, and cereals. I did eat some fruits (not daily). Vegetable consisted of tomatoes and cucumbers (but not daily). I drank tea, soda, and some cola.
At age 24, I weighed 95 lbs. I drank Coke morning till night and smoked 3 packs of cigarettes a day. My diet didn't change much from childhood. And then I got married and pregnant.
During my pregnancy I stopped smoking and stopped drinking Coke. I drank Diet Coke occassionally, but I really didn't care for the taste, so I stuck to tea, juice, and water.
At 6 months, I was huge. I was diagnosed with gestational diabetes. I gained 75 pounds. Imagine stretching a 95 lb. body by 75 lbs. in 9 months...
It's 2007. I am 40 years old. My first child is fourteen. I am still 5'4 with a small frame, but now my frame carries 218 lbs. I have migraines, excema, asthma, and pre-diabetes. I am tired, stressed, and uncomfortable. I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired.
I've tried numerous diets with minor results. I've gone in spurts where I would eat healthy and exercise. My spurts tend to last two weeks. I've lost and gained 10 lbs. more times that I can count. I've read countless books, magazine and internet articles on health, fitness, and nutrition. I've started and quit oodles of programs. The truth is - I know what to do. It's a matter of making myself do it. This is where the blog comes in. I'm going to journal my way to health and fitness. Durning my journey, I will share all I've learned from reading and research, and apply it to my own life. I will share my results. My hope is to motivate myself and inspire others.
If you would like to join me in my journey, please make comments for a collective commentary journal. Today is the first day of my new life.
I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me. - Phillipians 4:13
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