My Take: The 21-Day Sugar Detox by Diane Sanfilippo

I know what you're thinking - a book for a sugar detox?  How hard can it be? You just stop eating sugar, white knuckle your way through any or all cravings, and then, voila, no more sugar cravings, right?

If only it were that simple.

Enter "The 21-Day Sugar Detox", written by the New York Times bestselling author of "Practical Paleo", Diane Sanfilippo of Balanced Bites, and the Balanced Bites podcast.

This book gives you everything you need to successfully complete your sugar detox.  The book, releasing on October 29th, is set up in three sections and can be preordered here -->http://amzn.to/WcpmGE

Section One: Program Basics

The first section includes many parts, but my personal favorites are: Explanation in detail whether or not a sugar detox is right for you, an AH-MAZING preparation checklist and What to Expect during the detox, and a guide to dining out and fats & oils - helping you to stay social while on the program.

Green Apple Breakfast Sausage (p.94) 

Section Two: Levels & Meal Plans

Next comes the practical part of the program - levels and meal plans.  It really helps you personalize the program to meet your current nutritional needs - and there are modifications for athletes, pregnant/nursing mothers, those with an autoimmune condition and pescatarians.  This section starts of with a very short quiz to help determine what level of the program you should follow. I found it especially helpful when completing my first sugar detox.  Included are sample meal plans and yes/no foods lists tailored to every level.

Shepherd's Pie (p. 134)

Section Three: Easy Recipes

Finally we get to the meat of the book - total pun intended!  I've made several of the recipes included in this book and was not surprised at how filling and fabulous tasting they all were.  I've included some pictures throughout, as well as the trailer for the book.  Keep in mind, I'm not a photographer, but honestly, you just have to try them to find out how outstanding these recipes are!  I know that people always say that they never felt deprived while eating detox recipes, but I truly felt that way with each and every dish in this book.  

(Bonus: There is an accompanying cookbook coming out in December, find out more here -->http://amzn.to/WmUpjc)

Hot & Sweet Ginger-Garlic Chicken (p. 116)

There is a lot to love about this book - especially it's handy size - it fits in my purse, y'all!  More importantly, you can feel the love and care that went into both the program and the book. I highly recommend it for anyone seeking to break free from sugar and the chains it can have on your health.

Let's listen to Diane herself tell you why you should purchase the 21-Day Sugar Detox.

*Disclaimer - I received an advance copy of "The 21 Day Sugar Detox" to review. This is no way biases my opinion towards the book or program, as I already completed this program prior to the book's inception. But, for legal reasons, I must include this blurb so you are aware. Here you go and you're welcome :-)

First Impression: Panera Power Breakfast Egg Bowl with Steak

I first heard about the "hidden menu" at Panera Bread a few months ago when its announcement arrived in my Inbox.  This was before I started my Paleo journey, so my initial thoughts were, "Nice, but not for me."

If you don't have a Panera Bread in your area, they are essentially a bakery/cafe known for fresh baked artisan breads. They have bagels, muffins and baked treats for breakfast and sandwiches, salad and soups for lunch. If you live in the St Louis area, it's known as St Louis Bread Co.

When I started my Paleo journey, it was very difficult, if not impossible, to eat out.  The other morning I found myself out of time to make a proper breakfast and remembered this 'hidden menu' and decided to give it a try.  I called the Panera closest to my work to make sure they even still offered the Power Bowls. I think I confused the guy who answered the phone when I asked for the "Hidden Menu Bowls".  But we figured it out and he said that they did have them.

I chose the Egg Bowl with Steak and black coffee.  I got it to go since I was on my way to work. When my order was ready, the clerk asked me if I wanted chips or bread - I politely declined. Here's what I saw when I first took the bowl out of the bag:

Time to dig in!  I don't know if you can tell from the photos, but the first most prominent flavor was PEPPER.  Now, I love seasonings, but they went a bit over the top here.  I won't deduct points for it because its simply a preference. However, if you're like me, you probably won't like it.  The bowl contains 2 over hard eggs, 1/2 an avocado, 3 tomatoes and 4-5 oz steak cut into strips.

The portion size was perfect and helped to balance the heaviness of the bowl.  The tomatoes would make this a no-go if you're nightshade-free, but I suppose you could always ask for it without tomatoes.  Overall, I liked it-but I wish it would've had some greens/salad included to make it a bit more balanced. Seemed just a bit too heavy on protein for me.

That's really all I have to say about that for now. Do you have any interest in the Power lunch bowls?  Let me know in the comments and I'd be happy to try those out as well.  Hope you're having a wonderful weekend :-)

Teens and Paleo

I'm going to tread lightly here and just share what I'm going through today.  My youngest child, my son, is dealing with similar symptoms to mine and I want to transition him to a Paleo diet.  My husband agrees - sort of.

He recognizes that my son has health challenges,but thinks that I'm being unreasonable in presenting my son with a 2 week Paleo challenge.  He thinks that I should, instead, give him healthier options (what kinds of options he didn't elaborate on).  My son is currently dairy free, but really loves his carbs.  Just yesterday, he ate two donuts for breakfast (store bought), and then Wheat Thins, cheese and ranch dressing for lunch.  The only paleo meal he had was dinner - and the only meal that didn't give him terrible stomach pain :(

My husband doesn't eat Paleo, except for dinner and occasionally lunch, and probably never will. I've never expected him to eat the way I do, but I really wish he could see that the benefits could outweigh the costs.

Do any of you deal with non-Paleo spouses and trying to get your kids/teens to eat in a more healthy way?

I feel a little bit like Morton Downey Jr...

I used to occasionally hear about someone dying of cancer or suffering from some sort of digestive ailment.  Then, I would hear about one a month, earlier this year, one or two a week. Now the average is one or two a DAY, that is not a typo.  I went to the hospital yesterday to visit my best friend's husband whose kidneys shut down.  Earlier that week, that same friends grandson was hospitalized because he wasn't eating or able to digest his food.  Her husband is in his late 50s; the baby is 4 1/2 months old.  Then there is my step dad's best friend, who is dying of liver cancer. My grandnephew who is also not eating because of reflux (he's 13 months old) and might have autism. Not to mention my uncle, who passed a few months ago from colon cancer.

In this non-medically trained person's opinion, they're all tied together by a common thread - they're all related to digestion and possibly their diet.  I realize that for those of you of a more scientific bent, this "evidence" is anecdotal. I'm okay with anecdotal evidence because I'm seeing it increase to the point where it can no longer be ignored.  Even today, the medical community has labeled obesity a "disease".  Where I become like Morton Downey Jr  (or was it Susan Powter) is to look at you through the lens of this blog and scream at the top of my lungs....."STOP THE MADNESS!"

I came across this article this morning that essentially states that common medications, such as Amox-Clav, are killing our liver. There is also this article that shows the growing instance of digestive disorders in the United States. The data only goes to 2004, so I'm working on getting more current information.  Although, it begs the question, if it was this bad nine years ago, how much worse is it now? I also found this article, which lists the top 10 causes of death in the US last year.  In my estimation, 5 of them are directly related to lifestyle.  Some might argue that all of them are. 

Below is a chart taken from that article.

                        

What madness do I want to stop?  All of the destruction being caused by the Standard American Diet (SAD) and by genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in our food supply. And no, I don't want another law forcing companies to comply to food labeling.  The government's been in charge of our food safety long enough - they're unable and unwilling to do it properly. It's up to us, us and our pocketbooks.

The cool thing is - companies are starting (and it's only one company that I know of) to listen.  Chipotle quietly announced earlier this year that is in labeling GMO ingredients on its menu online.  You can read the entire story here. It's a great start, but it'll be even better if/when they eliminate GMO ingredients altogether.  At least in my area, Chipotle is widely popular. So popular that if more people start demanding that their restaurants label GMOs - how long might it be before food companies that sell their products in grocery stores voluntarily label them as well?

But before all of that can happen, we need to educate ourselves. Step away from the food pyramid - it's killing us.  I know that's an inflammatory statement, but the more research I do on the subject, the more I realize it's true.  Our health is in our hands, and we need to stop relying on government programs (that are usually bought and paid for by the food industry) to tell us what's healthy.  This same government convinced our parents and grandparents that smoking was also healthy.  Think about it.

I have tons of resources and book recommendations I could give, and I'm happy to if you'll leave a comment below.  But I'd rather you started looking at this for yourself.  Start by making sure you're eating in a way that keeps your digestive system healthy so it can absorb the vitamins and minerals it needs.  Don't know where to start or are too overwhelmed to know what the first step is?  I would recommend visiting www.robbwolf.com, reading the book, "Nourishing Traditions" or subscribing to Leanne Ely's Saving Dinner menus at www.savingdinner.com.

It's a lot to take in and I hope I'm not scaring anyone off.  I'm really passionate about this issue and wanted to share what I know in hopes that you'll become passionate about it as well.

I've Got "Friends" in Low Places

I'm officially done with the 30 Day Paleo Challenge, but decided to not only continue it, but also incorporate the Autoimmune Protocol from the book, Practical Paleo by Diane Sanfilippo. This would mean removing foods known as nightshades.  What are nightshades and why would I need to remove them? Great question!

According to the Weston A. Price Foundation, "nightshades are members of an enormous family of plants called Solanaceae, represent a huge family of plants. The ones that concern us in the Western diet mainly include tomatoes, potatoes (not sweet potatoes or yams), eggplant and peppers—this means all peppers including chili peppers, habanero  cayenne pepper and paprika (not peppercorns, see sidebar). Paprika is a sneaky one, showing up in lots of flavoring mixes and often under “spices” on ingredient labels. Other nightshades include goji berries (the new darling of the antioxidant crowd), ashwagandha (an adaptogenic herb from Ayurvedic medicine), Cape gooseberries (not normal gooseberries), ground cherries and garden huckleberries (not blueberries)."

I am choosing to eliminate nightshades for the next week because I have a condition called "keratosis pilaris", commonly known as chicken skin.  From everything I've read, it's best to eliminate nightshades for a week to see if this clears up your skin instead of topical medications.  I'm sure there's nothing wrong with topical medications, but if there's a way to reduce or eliminate skin irritations naturally, I'd much rather do that.  It keeps me in control of "dosing" and reduces any side effects of topical medications.

I've been testing foods here and there, doing pretty well to not go overboard and gorge myself on foods that I had an unnatural attachment to - that is, until this weekend.  I had two parties to go to, and both included cake.  Not homemade, Paleo/Primal cake, but fancy, boutique style all out bad for me cake.  One was chocolate with raspberry filling, the other chocolate with whipped vanilla icing.  Package that temptation with family and life stresses and lack of pre planning - disaster was imminent. I thought to myself, I'll just have one piece.  I should've known better.  Like I've heard other people say, I felt great the day of - but miserable for the next two days. I was bloated, sick to my stomach and my mood was off the charts wacky.   All of my anxiety and depression symptoms came back with a vengeance.  I read this great article from Psychology Today that talks about the effects sugar can and does have, not only on our body, but our brain as well.  Fascinating insights and well worth the read. Especially if you suspect you and sugar are a bit too friendly.

So, here I am tweaking my diet - again. I believe that my gut is sensitive enough that I'll be adjusting as needed for quite some time.  I've heard that some people need to be on an AIP (autoimmune protocol) for several months before the gut heals well enough to reintroduce problem foods. It's really okay, but I've got to stop feeling deprived and feeling sorry for myself. I'll never gain any progress if I can't get out of my own head.  

And THAT, seems to be the biggest obstacle I'm facing when it comes to gaining victory over stress and food intolerances.

An Evening With Dr. William Davis

It might sound completely geeky to say this, but I crossed another item off my bucket list last night.  I got to meet Dr. William Davis, a preventive cardiologist from Wisconsin, and well-known author of the books, "Wheat Belly" and the "Wheat Belly Cookbook".  Before I went exclusively Paleo, I first went wheat free - thanks in part to this book and research I'd already done on the benefits of doing so.

He was in my hometown of Kansas City, Mo and was giving a talk about the health benefits of the Wheat Belly lifestyle. He also mentioned briefly that he ascribes the Paleo lifestyle as a way of eating that is beneficial to your health as well (holla!).  I went back and forth on whether or not I would go, but I think a part of me realized that I couldn't NOT go.  It was housed in a beautiful church in the heart of our well-known Country Club Plaza area.  If you've never been to KC, you should come and take a walk around.

   Country Club Plaza

Back to my story...there was a reception before the seminar, complete with fresh veggies and wine, so I headed to that first in order to fuel my brain.  I talked briefly with a lady who was dealing with nearly identical medical issues to mine.  It was sad to hear her talk about wanting to be more healthy but lamenting over giving up wheat.  I remember being in the same boat.  Like I told her, once you start to see the changes that a wheat free diet can make, you won't miss it....as much.  Dr. Davis's cookbook, has great recipes and swaps for some of your favorite wheat based recipes. As she departed to go look at the books, I encouraged her to give the Wheat Belly lifestyle a try. I hope she decided to.

After finishing my goodies, I headed up to the main sanctuary to find my seat. When I walked into the sanctuary, I saw that Dr. Davis was signing books and greeting people. This was my chance. I got in line and waiting (somewhat patiently) while everyone schmoozed and took pictures.  Finally, my turn!  I said hello and gave him a quick rundown of my experience and what his protocol did for me.  I didn't know what else to say, and I didn't have a book for him to sign (its on my Kindle), so I stood there for a second, much like Ralphie from "A Christmas Story" when he was with Santa Claus.  With tears in my eyes, I finished our interaction with a simple "thank you for changing my life and my health".

The seminar began an hour later and while I listened intently, my biggest takeaway will be my interaction with Dr. Davis.  I am so blessed to live in a time where even "traditional" doctors are beginning to see the benefits of teaching their patients to care for themselves.   If you'd like more information about Dr. Davis or his books, please visit Wheat Belly Blog.

What experiences have you had in your road to healing that you'd like to share? Anyone in  particular you'd like to thank for starting your journey to better health?

The End of the Journey?

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step - Lao-tzu

I thought this quote fits where I'm at right now - both in my personal life and in my new Paleo lifestyle.  I began this journey on Monday, May 6th and the official end to the 30 Day Paleo Challenge is Friday, June 7th. Just like thinking about 1,000 steps instead of focusing on the first one - it seemed daunting. Am I going to starve? Is eating Paleo healthy? Will it repair my gut or it is all hype? Will I dive face first into Cookies 'n' Cream ice cream after the challenge is over?  All questions I'd have when I took my focus off the current day and began thinking about the other 999 days.

All journeys, especially the good ones, are less about the destination and more about the adventures that take place along the way.  Maybe that was the point of this challenge the whole time - a kickstart to a grand adventure. Like Bilbo Baggins, I feel I've been given a task, an adventure, a journey.  I'm excited to be part of it - I can feel a new life emerging - almost like giving birth  - but to what? A dream, an adventure...could this all be coming about just because I made some dietary changes? Lots of questions, some answers and I'm ;learning to be okay with questions. They lead me to learn new things about myself, how my body works and what it needs to thrive.

The only impending loss I'm feeling is not being able to communicate with some of the people I've met through the 30 Day challenge - they're kindred spirits really - part of the journey.  My hope is that we'll keep in touch, but I'm holding all things loosely right now - adjusting to the ebb and flow of things.  If we stay in touch, that's great. If I'm to allow them to break off on their own so they can tend to their own journey, that's as it should be.  If you would've met me 30 days ago, you'd know how unusual it is for me to say something like that. I like to hold onto the familiar, the known...letting go wasn't in my vocabulary until now.

So, I'll pick up my knapsack and all the knowledge and tools I've been given and start off down the path. There is no familiarity, nor anything known, but it'll be an adventure...of that I'm sure.

From despair to joy

“It is by going down into the abyss that we recover the treasures of life. Where you stumble, there lies your treasure.” ― Joseph Campbell

I recently read this quote from someone who went through a near tragedy. I feel its apropo for my recent health problems. Having been in so much pain just from eating foods I was told were good for me, and seeing the list of 'healthy foods' I could have, was my own version of hell.  Officially it was called IBS-C, but I didn't care about the diagnosis, I simply wanted to be able to eat without pain.

I was told to eat more whole grains, no red meat and lots of healthy vegetables and fruit. I was also told to add a psyllium fiber supplement.  Sounds reasonable, right?  Unfortunately, my bloating, reflux and stomach pain got much, much worse.  Then I got an email from Leanne Ely, the Saving Dinner Diva, announcing a 30 Day Paleo challenge.  I was skeptical, but for the price, I felt I couldn't lose.

Within the first week, I saw a reduction in symptoms. But I was eating all the wrong foods- or so I thought. I eliminated all wheat and grains, no dairy (except grassfed butter/ghee), no soy, no sugar and no processed foods.  Reading over the list of "no" foods, I felt I was going to starve to death, I really did.  The recipes looked delicious enough, but I was still really apprehensive about the addition of red meat.  Nearly all of my life, red meat sat in my stomach like a brick. I didn't even like steak...at all.

Dairy was difficult as well, I mean, who doesn't love sour cream, cheese and cream cheese?  Heaven, right? For me, not so much.  It was causing most of my systemic inflammation and nearly all my sinus infections.  I'd already eliminated soy - that was a no brainer.  If you wonder why I disdain soy so much,Google 'estrogenic foods' or 'estrogen mimickers'. Talk about eye opening - especially for women. We've been told most of our lives that it's a great hormone replacement; trust me, it's not.

Can we just talk about the most difficult part for me? Give up sugar?  Why on earth would I do that?  I mean, its SUGAR for heaven's sake!  As it was explained to me, it would help heal my digestive issues and would help release me from my dependence upon sugar.  I didn't even recognize I had an addiction to sugar until I was told to stop eating it.

Processed foods was a no-brainer in the same vein as soy.  I'd already reduced or eliminated most processed foods for the junk food they were.

Here I am, nearly 30 days later - I've had missteps (which my body promptly reminded me that there was a reason I wasn't eating these foods), but overall, I see great progress in my digestive issues, and I've even lost 10 pounds :-)

After much discussion and a month of eating delicious meals, my family and I are staying Paleo.  Why would we ever want to go back?   I will have a sweet treat now and then, balance is key in any lifestyle, and might try to reincorporate grassfed cheeses and sour cream after a few more months of healing. I am so thankful to Leanne, my new friends in the 30 Day Paleo Challenge, and to God for helping me find the source of my digestive issues and a vessel to help heal them.  I will be forever grateful.  From despair to joy. Let me leave you with one more quote that I think is fitting.

"Find a place inside where there's joy, and the joy will burn out the pain." - Joseph Campbell

Chock Full of Knowledge...and gratitude

Over the last couple of days, I've been reading like a mad woman. I bought "Practical Paleo" by Diane Sanfillippo, "The Paleo Solution" by Robb Wolf, "Everyday Paleo" by Sarah Fragroso, and many other free Kindle eBooks on the Paleo lifestyle.  The most astounding thing I'm finding is that all of them have the same dietary philosophy that I do.  Eat whole foods, eliminate processed foods and listen to your body.

I've learned all kinds of things about how our body works and how it processes and digests food.  So much so, that my head is spinning. I can't tell if I've just read books on nutrition or evolutionary anthropology. I suppose its a mixture of both.  One thing is clear, conventional wisdom as it relates to our diet is about as wise as sticking your finger in a light socket.   

I am on day 23 of the 30 Day Paleo challenge, and I'm still tweaking the way I eat in order continue the healing my gut so desperately needs.  I wasn't looking forward to this week's menu - quite honestly, it seemed a bit boring.  I've heard this is something very common in the homestretch of such challenges.  I made Indian Beef Kebabs last night - which were very tasty.  Quite the pleasant surprise.  Also made cauli-rice, which if your're not familiar with it, is essentially cutting up a head of cauliflower, running through your food processor until it resembles rice and then steaming to cook it.  I loved it, but the rest of my family said they'd much rather just eat plain cauliflower.  It's still a win considering that no one in my family would touch cauliflower, or butternut squash, or kale before this challenge began.  Now they're asking to continue the Paleo lifestyle.   Below are pictures I took from last night's dinner:

Not bad, right?  And super easy to make!  This is just a sampling of the wonderful meals you'll eat in the Saving Dinner 30 Day Paleo Challenge.  It's not too late - jump in right where you are.  We have several people who just started this week.

What kinds of things have you learned since starting your new Paleo lifestyle?

Week 4 - The Homestretch

I'm now on Week 4 of the 30 Day Paleo Challenge - and while I had a oopsy this past weekend, I still feel like I'm moving in the right direction.

I'm convinced that wheat/grains most likely won't make it back into my diet. They cause too much trouble for my healing gut.  Maybe I'll reintroduce them in another 3-4 months, but not now.  Some fruits will stay out as well. I'm not totally sure which ones, except for bananas.  I ate one last night and within a short period of time, I was suffering from oscillating bouts of acid reflux and sinus congestion.  It was weird. Also, unless I find some quality unprocessed, full fat dairy - that will be out as well. It causes inflammation and reflux (of all things) and I'm quite happy with my almond and coconut milks.   Sugar will be something I do try to reincorporate, but not on the same level as before.  No more processed sugar treats - only homemade.  And definitely no more soy, there's no need for it in my life and especially not in my body.  Most soy is GMO and highly processed, something that I swore off long before I started this challenge.

I'm thankful that I didn't have any official Memorial Day weekend plans. I was able to eat what I wanted and not be concerned that there was something hidden that wasn't Paleo.  The biggest problem I'm having right now is boredom.  The dinners I'm preparing don't seem as flavorful or exciting as the ones I made during the first weeks of the challenge.  Amazon has several free Paleo recipe books available for the Kindle nearly every day, so I am dipping into those now so that I don't feel like giving up for the last leg of the challenge.

What challenges do you face in the first month of a new lifestyle change?

Take Me Out To The Ballgame

Today we're going to "Faith & Family Day at the K" - the "K" standing for Kauffman Stadium, home of the Kansas City Royals. They call it Faith & Family Day because there is an emphasis on faith and a Contemporary Christian artist performs after the ballgame. I'm especially excited about this one because one of my favorites, David Crowder Band, is the artist this year.  If you've never heard of them, here is a sample of their music...http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Om_VHP_Sn-E

To say I'm excited about both the game and the music is an understatement.  But I digress for now.

The main concern I have is typical baseball fare - none of which I will eat. I mean, come on, fully processed hot dogs, white buns, beer....yuck!  So, how to take care of the inevitable hunger pangs that will come during the game?  The same way I do when I go to the movies - snacks and lots of them. So, what types of snacks will I be bringing?  Mostly cut up veggies, some berries and nuts.  I don't want to overpack, but I do want to be prepared for the hunger monster.  I'm also going to eat lunch right before we leave. We only live 10 minutes from the stadium, which is helpful.  Our church is tailgating before the game, but I'm intentionally avoiding that because there will be nothing there I want to eat.

I'm also mentally preparing myself - I would be dishonest if I said that some of the sights, sounds and smells at a baseball game make me want to dive head first in a never ending stream of nachos, hamburgers and beer.  Must.Have.Willpower!  Just kidding, it won't be easy, but my mindset has changed so much I'm actually looking forward to being able to take all that in (without demonizing it) and moving on. I'm going to focus on what I should be focusing on - the event and my family. I mean isn't that what I'm supposed to be focused on?  Besides, who wants to spend 3-4 hours white knuckling my food choices when I can do some pre planning and avoid all the drama.

What steps do you take to avoid temptation when you're at an event or venue that contains foods you won't eat?

UPDATE: Towards the end of the game, I did the unthinkable - I caved.  But in the misery that followed, I realized that all was not lost. I could call this a 'one off' and get rid back to eating Paleo. And that's exactly what I did at my very next meal.

My Story

I realized that I've been sharing my heart and most of you have no idea why I started on this Paleo life.

About two months ago, I went to my doctor complaining of stomach bloating, pain and a long stretch of not being able to poop. I asked about diet changes since I'd just starting reading "Wheat Belly" by Dr. William Davis, but was given the standard, "eat more fiber and take laxatives if you need them" answer.

After a thorough examination and thinking I was having a bout of diverticulitis (very rare for someone in their thirties), I was immediately sent to Radiology for a CT scan to also rule out ovarian cysts or kidney stones. Of course, when the CT results came back, I was "clean" and was given a referral to a GI doctor since I was still suffering the same symptoms nearly a week and half later.

I couldn't wait to see the GI doctor. I was hopeful that he could find out what was going on in my gut and hopefully help me to fix it.  Unfortunately, it was another month before I could get in. That should've been my first clue that the medically directed path I was taking was the wrong one.

I was finally able to poop about two weeks before my GI appointment, but my other symptoms were still present - in fact, I forgot something else that was going on, severe acid reflux.  Ugh, it was TERRIBLE! It was so bad that I often found myself ready to puke it up. I'm thankful that in between appointments, I had a friend point me towards ACV (apple cider vinegar) to relieve my reflux symptoms - or at least minimize them.

The day finally arrived for my GI appointment and I was desperate for relief from my symptoms. I took my list of symptoms and food journal for the last month with me, hopeful that the doctor would be able to get rid of these symptoms once and for all.  He came in and I handed him my list and began my spiel about how I'd been trying to alleviate my symptoms for now nearly two months.  He glanced at the list, did not do a physical examination, pronounced that I had IBS-C, gave me a prescription sample and had me immediately set up an upper GI endoscopy.  

When I asked about side effects of the prescription he gave me, he smiled and said, "there are a few, but it beats having the symptoms you're having".  The first most common symptom was diarrhea...umm, no thank you. As soon as I got home, I threw the pills away. If there was a solution to my problem, it wasn't going to be from the "medical community".

I started reading whatever I could about gut issues and realized that, not only was I not alone in the symptoms I was having, that many, many people were healing themselves through lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise. At first, I was MAD - I mean, how could the man I'd come to rely on for answers to my various ailments not know all of this? But then I realized that it was up to me, not him, to take control of my health.

I gave up all wheat/grains (even gluten-free wheat), dairy (except eggs) and all processed foods. I'd been on this "diet" for about two weeks, when I received an email from Leanne Ely of SavingDinner.com, announcing a 30 day Paleo challenge. The video talked about all of the benefits of the Paleo lifestyle, and how it might be able to help me with my gut issues and even some of my other issues, such as anxiety, depression and inflammation of my joints. That was all I needed to hear, I immediately purchased the program and haven't (and won't) look back.

I am a Paleo "lifer" - I simply cannot go back to the way I was eating before; did I mention that through this process, I've also lost 10 pounds and go back to my 'fighting weight'?

That's it - my story.  I hope you found some hope in these words and I invite you ask questions about my journey. I'm an open book.

How can you eat all that fat and red meat and still be healthy?

If you've been part of the Paleo lifestyle for any length of time, you'll ultimately get asked this question:

"How can you eat all that meat and fat and be healthy?"

My first response has been that nearly all of my previous medical symptoms are gone, but that's not enough for some of my more studious friends, so after extensive Googling and online research, I found this from Robb Wolf.

For most people the fact the Paleo diet delivers the best results is enough. Improved blood lipids, weight loss and reduced pain from autoimmunity is proof enough.  Many people however are not satisfied with blindly following any recommendations, be they nutrition or exercise related. Some folks like to know WHY they are doing something. Fortunately, the Paleo diet has stood not only the test of time, but also the rigors of scientific scrutiny.

With a very simple shift we not only remove the foods that are at odds with our health (grains, legumes, and dairy) but we also increase our intake of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Here is a great paper from Professor Loren Cordain exploring how to build a modern Paleo diet: The nutritional characteristics of a contemporary diet based upon Paleolithic food groups. This paper also offers significant insight as to the amounts and ratios of protein, carbohydrate and fat in the ancestral diet.

And if that's not enough, I found this.

Most critics love to point out that the Paleo Diet is “mainly meat based” (as stated in this Huffington Post piece).  They then spend the rest of their talk/article explaining that we, in fact, didn't eat all meat, and that we mostly ate plants! And thank goodness! As the internet has recently pointed out, meat will kill you (actually, it won’t).

Although some people may choose to follow the Paleo Diet by eating primarily meat, and yes a majority of the protein consumed on a Paleo Diet does come from animal sources, I would argue that a true Paleo Diet is actually mostly vegetable based, supplemented by a protein source which often happens to be meat.  So, the critics and advocates of the Paleo Diet are in agreement on this – mostly plants!

Paleo and Atkins are not synonyms. People that are all-in on a Paleo Diet tend to have 2/3rds of their plate filled up with vegetables, and a small portion of meat added. Yes, some people choose to eat more meat than that, but nowhere in the basic Paleo principles does it state that Paleo Diet is mainly meat based.

A diet that promotes the consumption of more vegetables, and whenever possible eating meat from pasture raised or free range animals?

Sounds like something we can all be in agreement on.

Ultimately, it's up to you to decide if the Paleo lifestyle is right for you. Like Cavegirleats likes to say, "Eyes on your own plate."  Words to live by.

I need your help!

At the end of next week, the 30 Day Challenge will be over.  I am going to continue to eat Paleo as I don't want to go back to the way I was eating before. This presents the following unanticipated challenges:

1. I need a new name for this blog - one that's focused on living a healthier and better life through eating Paleo.

2. I would also like to include events from my life as I have children in college and high school.  Anyone with children that age recognize how the stresses of raising children that age deals with wellness ;-)

I would love your feedback and help with this issue.  I still have a couple of weeks until these changes are needed - but I'm a Type A personality who loves to have all her ducks in a row.

Can't wait to hear what you have to say - and remember, no idea is a dumb idea!

Recipe Roundup Friday

Happy Friday!

This was a very long week for a number of reasons, and I'm glad that the work week is finally ending.  Makes me long for the days when  my kiddos were still little and we could take off for the park anytime we wanted to. Being a cubicle jockey is no fun- even if I love my job.

I'm eating some amazing food during this challenge, many of which I would've never tried until now.  I'm so glad I did; as I've mentioned before in previous posts, I feel like I've turned a corner and many of these changes will be permanent. I mean, really, who feels this amazing and then goes back to feeling terrible?

Today I'd like to share some photos and recipes of some of the wonderful food I'm eating while on the 30 Day challenge. If you're keeping track, I'm on Day 11 - almost halfway - (insert appropriate mixed emotions here).  I'm in what is known in Whole30 circles as Tiger Blood phase. I feel great, have tons of energy and occasionally have dreams about treats I could care less about when I'm awake.  It's a great feeling and wanted to share it with you because if any of you are struggling, I want to show you that it will pass!

Grilled Eggplant
Serves 4

1-2 Eggplant 
Homemade vinaigrette

Homemade Vinaigrette
3 Tbs:1 Tbs Olive oil: Balsamic Vinegar
1 clove of garlic, pressed
2-3 shakes (or about 1 Tbs.) Garlic & Herb Mrs. Dash 

Preheat grill (or in my case, George Foreman grill). Combine ingredients for homemade vinaigrette.  Slice eggplant and brush with vinaigrette. Place on grill for about 10 minutes if using GF grill, 15-20 if using a conventional grill.  Bon Appetit!



Wheat and Dairy Free Crustless Quiche
Serves 6-8

6 eggs

2 1/2 cups Nutritional Yeast
2 cups fresh spinach
Coconut Oil (enough to coat a frying pan)
1/4 tsp pepper
1/2 tsp salt

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Wash and dry spinach.

Coat frying pan with coconut oil and put on medium heat. Once it melts, put spinach in frying pan and cook spinach until wilted.

While cooking spinach, mix eggs, yeast, salt and pepper.  Once spinach is wilted, remove from heat and add to egg mixture.

Coat pie plate with coconut oil and pour in egg mixture. Place in preheated oven and cook for 30 minutes.  Remove from oven and cool for 10 minutes before serving.






Bacon Wrapped Tenderloin
Serves 4-6

3-4 lbs. Pork Tenderloin
1 pkg. bacon (preferably nitrite-free)
Cinnamon

Preheat oven to 350. In 9x13 pan, lay out uncooked bacon strips vertically across the wide side of the pan.  Place tenderloin on top of the bacon,in the center of the pan.  Starting from the left, wrap bacon slices around tenderloin.  Sprinkle cinnamon over the top of wrapped tenderloin. Place in preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes or until center of tenderloin is light pink.




If you'd like to see more recipes like these, please let me know what kinds and I'll happily post them!

ALERT: This post could be full of randomness

I'm going to start this post by sharing something I read from blogger and doctor, Lissa Rankin, MD....

Darling, you have arrived. You have nothing left to prove. You are inherently valuable, not because of how much you've achieved, but simply because you have within you a spark of divinity that makes you essentially valuable. Just look at any baby and you'll see the inherent worth within every human being. You don't have to earn that value because you just ARE. 

Stop pushing. Stop striving. Stop trying to impress anybody. Stop being so spermy and just trust that you are enough, just as you are. Give up trying to be perfect because you're guaranteed to fail, and remember that your imperfections are the gateway to intimacy with others who can relate to your vulnerabilities. Stop trying to get "there" and just savor being HERE. You are enough. You have arrived. 

Take a deep breath and drink that in.

Me again...those words are like healing balm to my soul. I'm not struggling with anything, to the contrary, I'm having a great day.  But sometimes I think everyone needs to hear these words.  (Steps off soapbox)

I'm on Day 10 of my challenge, and feel like I've hit my stride.  I even volunteered to go get pizza to celebrate someone's birthday today and was satisfied just to smell its aroma permeating my car.  When, I got to work, I ate some of the veggies from the veggie tray someone brought and I'm now enjoying my tuna steak and veggie mix that consists of onions, summer squash, celery and roma tomatoes slow simmered in coconut oil and water.  Amazingly good - although I think I'll purchase fresh tuna steaks next time. I could tell the difference between the frozen version and the fresh bought.

Which leads me to another point - my palette is changing and expanding.  Everyone asks me, "don't you miss this or that food?" Sometimes I answer yes, but more often than not, I answer "no, not really."  And that is so surprisingly freeing.  Take the time to explore food - really, you'll be surprised to discover what you like and what you'll come to like.

With all the stresses of life (especially with a daughter that graduates at the end of the month), its wonderful to know that I no longer have to stress over the following ailments: Joint Pain, Chronic Sinusitis and Seasonal Allergies, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Acid Reflux, Constipation, Anxiety and Depression.  

I'm curious, have you had the same/similar results when you changed your diet?  What changes did you make? Sound off in the comments and have a wonderful day!

Dining Out On The Challenge

One of the things I've most dreaded since the challenge began was eating out.  I loved eating out before, so I was concerned that I would be tempted.  I shouldn't have been worried - it turned out just fine.  Almost like a lifestyle change is occurring...can you imagine?

I'm very careful to read the menu ahead of time and decide what I'm going to eat before I even set foot in the restaurant.  That eliminates a lot of hand wringing and social awkwardness when ordering.  Most people I'm with don't even notice a difference in how I order. Which is strangely comforting to me.

When I'm out and about, I use the Paleo GoGo mobile app for iPhone.  I'm not sure if there's an Android version, but if there is, I'd highly recommend it.  It's a lifesaver!

I think I'm turning a corner in the challenge - yes, I'd still like to have some sweets, but, I'm really enjoying the food I'm eating.  I'm almost to the point where I don't want to go back to the way I was eating.  Except for maybe an occasional sweet treat, of course ;-)

I know that there are more ups and downs to come, but I think I'm getting better at this everyday.  What are some of the experiences you've had with eating out  while on the Paleo (or a modified version of it) diet?

The Good, The Bad and The Ugly (Behaviors) from days 6-7

I hesitated to post this because I don't like to 'spread negativity' - or so I told myself.  The REAL problem is that I didn't want to expose to the world my vulnerabilities for fear of seeming unstable.  But I did the thing that my brain kept telling me to do - reach out for help.   As I've said in previous posts, I belong to a great group on Facebook that are all (for the most part) going through a 30 Day Paleo Challenge at the same time.

This weekend, they proved to be a lifeline for me.

I'd spend the weekend stuffing down anger and tears because I couldn't find a logical reason why I was feeling this way. Everyone was getting along, the atmosphere in our home was fun-loving and caring, then there's the extra attention of Mother's Day.  So, why did I want to go back to bed and cry (this was on Mother's Day)  or tear the heads off everyone I cared about (this was Saturday)?

I thought that my mood was affected on Sunday because I hadn't eaten a proper breakfast, but even after my blood sugar restabilized, I literally couldn't hold back the tears or spiteful thoughts towards my family. After a particularly strange episode, my wise husband confronted me on my behavior and how it might be showing the kids that I was ungrateful for the gifts they'd given me for Mother's Day.  The conviction in my heart proved he was right, and I immediately went to my kids, apologizing for my behavior and reassuring them that I was very thankful for them and for their gifts. Immediately after doing that (and a suggestion from my husband that we order out for dinner), it felt like a huge boulder was lifted from my chest and my mood improved for the remainder of the day.

I relayed most of this to my group, and within a short amount of time, I had a handful of solutions/reasons for my erratic behavior. I was able to read that I wasn't crazy and that what I was dealing with, not only had others dealt with the same, but was completely explained by the changes I've made to my diet recently.  Since they had to do with the sugar purge component of the 30 Day Challenge, I won't stop the purge as this behavior can (and did) pass.

I relay this information to say, (1) you're not alone if you're dealing with the same behavior while on a sugar purge and (2) you still have time to join the 30 Day Challenge  ;-)

Any of you have the same or similar experiences that you'd like to share?  You never know who you'll help.

What do you eat when you "go Paleo?"

I realized this morning that I've done some reflecting on the "can'ts" of the Paleo diet. I'm never going to make it 30 days if I continue to think this way.  I scoured the inter-webs to find you some information I believe might be helpful in explaining what I can and do eat.

The best way to describe how I'm eating is this: wheat/grain-free, dairy free and sugar free. So, again, what DO I get to eat??  I eat lots of great foods.  My breakfast is either a smoothie with chia seeds,  coconut milk, chocolate protein powder (pea based protein) and mixed berries OR eggs scrambled with ghee and bacon - I'm hardly suffering.

For lunch, I have leftovers from dinner the night before or this wonderful pot of happiness known as "Mighty Mitochondria Miracle Vat of Soup".

Dinners are a meat and two veggie sides.  Some examples of sides are kale and sweet potatoes or snap peas and mixed greens salad, etc.  My favorite sides are grilled eggplant and the tomato cucumber salad.

With the 30 Day Paleo Challenge, I get a shopping list and dinner menus for the entire 30 day challenge.  Plus suggestions on breakfast and lunch items as well.  The Dinner Diva tries to steer us away from snacks, but realizes that sometimes you just need one, so she gives paleo friendly snack ideas as well.

If you'd rather mix and match and make your own "Paleo Challenge", here are some resources that I believe can help you do just that.  Please share any other ideas you have in the comments below.  Happy Friday!

Low-Carb Fruit: Lists of the Best and Worst

Robb Wolf's Paleo Food Matrix

The Dinner Diva, "Paleo Schmaleo"

Rethinking Mother's Day

Most major holidays and celebrations in my family revolve around food.  It's not something I've ever really thought about until I started this challenge.

Now it's the week of Mother's Day and I find myself scrambling to find a non-food related way to celebrate the holiday.  It's always been chocolates and a Mother's Day dinner.   My Mom is also on a journey to better health, so both of my previous options are out. What's a girl to do?

I've scoured the web looking for ideas and have come up with the following:

• Spa Day
• Mani/Pedi
• Honorary donation to her favorite charity
• Road Trip
• Poems (seems a bit like something I would've done in elementary school)
• Gift certificates to her favorite store
• Words of appreciation

As a mom myself, I think I really like the last option. Who doesn't like to hear the direct impact they've made in their childrens' lives?  It's sweeter than any chocolate and lasts longer than any meal - no matter how tasty the food or lively the company.

So, my challenge to you is this - what kinds of non-food gifts can you come up with to celebrate your Mom? Leave them in the comments and I'll share them in a post after Mother's Day. If you are a mother, let me be the first to say - thank you.  Thank you for all you do to raise the next generation, all the sleep you've lost, the sacrifices you've made and for the wisdom you share.  Happy (early) Mother's Day!

Made my weight loss goal and other Day 3 musings

I want to start off by saying that the last few days as done a lot to show me that I don't know nearly as much about food/nutrition as I thought I did.  I've always been told that a high-fiber, low-fat diet is the best way to lose weight.  For me, not only was that wrong, but there is some dangerous logic in that type of diet.

Wheat and dairy in most forms, cause an inflammatory response throughout the body. Which is not helpful when you're trying to lose weight.  If you have a chance, you should google either "Wheat Belly Diet" or Dr. William Davis and read why we're fat and getting fatter.

The best news and first positive to come out of the 30 Day Paleo challenge is that in the first three days, I've been able to shed the last 5 pounds that was just not coming off.  I'm excited, but find myself conflicted.  I'm conflicted because I"m concerned that I might continue to lose weight and I don't think it would be healthy to do so. When all is said and done, I'm glad to be back to my 'fighting weight' again :)

The only downside of this challenge is that I'm EXTREMELY tired today.  I've felt like I needed a nap most of the day. Nothing seems to be helpful. The only thing that I've done differently is have a smoothie for breakfast and not my normal eggs & bacon.  Also,  I didn't sleep well last night.  At any rate, I'm thankful for this challenge and the things it's forcing me to face that aren't helpful to my well being.

Have any of you experience these symptoms in the first few days of "going Paleo"?

Why Is A Food Challenge Rarely About Food?

I just finished dinner about an hour ago, and I realized that I yet again, I was having a craving for something sweet. I never intended this challenge to be anything more than taking care of my body by eating better. But what it's turned into is another story altogether.  

I find myself struggling with anger, tension and stress – all for the wrong reasons. I'm obsessing, as I often do, with ‘getting it right.’  Getting what right? Eating just like the plan prescribes.  Ugh, why do I put myself through this time and again?  Just because it’s on a list doesn't mean I have to follow it exactly. I am smart enough to figure out a sensible substitute if I'm out of something or if I feel the need to go out of my way to find something. That is not the point of this challenge.  The point of this challenge is to do something good for your body.  How exactly am I being good to my body if I’m obsessed or stressed about this or that and how to do it right?

I don't want to beat myself up too much – such is the point of this post after all! But I do want to listen to what my body and mind are telling me and just follow the plan as best I can. Nothing more, nothing less.  I've noticed more often than not that it’s much ‘easier’ for me to make a big deal and obsess and whine about whatever positive change I’m trying to make in my life.  Allowing thoughts like, “it’s too hard”, “ I'll just have a little” and “that’s what it says I need, so I must go out and find it”…etc., ad nauseum.  This is the struggle – my thought life.

How is your thought life a struggle you say? Every action I take or don't take BEGINS in my thoughts, even with – or especially with – food.  How I feel when I wake up in the morning, how I greet my family, how I treat my co-workers, how detailed I am and especially how I feel about myself.  Even though I've not “officially” struggled with being overweight – I do think I've struggled with my ‘food life’ my entire life. From being told to ‘finish my plate’ when I wasn't allowed to portion out my food to family celebrations centered around food, to telling myself I ‘deserve’ a treat after overcoming this or that struggle.

So, what does that mean for the rest of this challenge? Who knows? But I'd like to learn to slow down and take things as they come…oh, and exchange asparagus for Brussels sprouts every once in awhile.

Can I make it 30 days without sugar?

So I shouldn't obsess strictly with what I can't have (SO very guilty of doing this), but should focus on what I can have.  It's amazing the grip that sugar has on my mind, even to the point of showing up in my dreams.  I did really well with little/no sugar yesterday. I only had a pinch of Stevia in my coffee yesterday morning and a small piece of 88% dark chocolate after dinner last night.  Why did it show up in my dreams last night? I don't know, but let me tell you how the dream went...its a hoot.

I don't know if any of you have seen the ginormous candy boxes (seriously, they're larger than board game boxes!) that are out for Mother's Day, but I had a dream that I received one for Mother's Day. My solution to having all this contraband in the house?  Send it to Russia with my husband, who was leaving to go there on a business trip (in the dream, not reality).  I have to laugh thinking about that because is that REALLY what I would do if I received such a gift? And since when does my husband travel to Russia? Anyway, the timing is funny and strangely ironic since most Moms will get some sort of chocolate for Mother's Day.  A tradition I think should be changed - but I'm trying to eat better, and if I can't have sugar, no one can :)

I'm starting to think that the menus provided for the 30 Day Challenge might just turn my families "meat and potatoes" thinking about food around.  My husband ate everything I made yesterday ( Moroccan Chicken, and Tomatoes & Cucumbers with a homemade vinaigrette dressing), and he (1) HATES tomatoes in almost any form, but especially fresh and (2) doesn't like squash in any form.  However, he not only cleaned his plate, he said that this is something we should make again.  So, hurrah for small victories!  A funny side note, the way that acorn squash looks after being roasted looks eerily similar to pineapple.  So when I served it, everyone bit into it expecting pineapple (I told them about the squash - promise!) and got squash instead.  The looks on their faces was priceless.

One of my best weapons when sugar cravings hit is unsweetened Trader Joe's Almond Butter. Just a little bit on a spoon and it zaps my cravings instantly - I tell ya, it's a miracle food :)  All that to say - so far, so good. I'm most concerned about the first week of this challenge anyway.  I remember it was the hardest when I quit smoking, so why would sugar be any different? 

As far as the challenge itself, I feel really good and the food is fantastic! Tonight's dinner looks even better than last nights - I can't wait!  I slept like a baby last night, something I haven't  done in months - so YAY Paleo!  It's not too late to join the challenge - simply visit http://savingdinner.com/ and click on the 30 Day Paleo Challenge graphic on the right side of the screen. My friend, Leanne, will get you fixed right up.

Let me know your experience with "going Paleo" and it could be featured in a future post.

My SOS list for dealing with sugar cravings

During this 30 day journey, I decided that the biggest obstacle I might face is not being able to have sugar. Most recently, it's been rearing its ugly head in the form of cravings for Pay Day and Reese's PB Cup candy bars around 3pm at work. It was not a pretty sight if I didn't get my fix on time.  I'm pretty sure I literally growled at someone who stood between me and snack machine.  Not one of my finer moments :-/

Aaaaanyway, I asked for support in the FB group I'm in , The 30 Day Paleo Challenge, and decided that I needed all the tools I could get to make sure that I didn't accidentally snap at my boss.  They all gave me TONS of great tips - one of them, eating 1 tsp of Almond Butter (sugar free of course) off of a spoon has been a lifesaver today.  That, and lots and lots of water.

I compiled them and this is the result...

• There are a few things going on here Keri: 1) sugar addiction, 2) bad habit, 3) a head trip of stellar proportions.  To beat sugar addiction, you need to replace it with enough protein (check that box with the 30 Day Challenge), enough fat (another check) and fiber (another check again). Make SURE you're not trying to go low fat, lavish the butter on your veggies, enjoy that big fat portion of steak and if you're absolutely needing a little something, get one ounce of 80% dark chocolate, break it up into pieces and let it melt slowly in your mouth. 
• Try keeping almond butter to snack on. It really helps my sweet tooth
• Yes, have something to substitute that you look forward to! That way you don't focus on what you CAN'T have but on what you can have.
• A spoonful of mayo works for me I was surprised I never thought I would eat just mayo. Doing crosswords and word find puzzles, going for a walk around my yard, doing puzzles, texting friends takes your mind off the habit of munching. I try to stop eating after I eat dinner and have a snack of a salad with protein an hour before I go to bed.
• An ounce of dark chocolate with a tbsp of almond butter on top of it is a great sub for Reese's! We (my husband & I) actually go as far as to make our own chocolate bark that has no sugar and is just sweetened with xylitol -- we melt down the squares of pure UNSWEETENED chocolate (bakers chocolate) with some coconut oil and a couple of tbsp of xylitol (we find that 1/2 a tbsp to 1 tbsp per square works well)... once it melts, spread it on a cookie sheet covered with wax paper and let it harden in the freezer or fridge. You can add nuts and/or coconut for a yummy treat.
• Fresh or frozen grapes are great to kick a sugar crave fast. If they are frozen it is kinda like a Popsicle/ Bon Bon...and homemade mayo is the greatest thing on this planet... I will post my super easy 30 second mayo recipe when I am back at my computer.
• A handful of dates rolled in almonds or plain fresh ones both sweet and mushy.
• Raw almonds are my substitute of choice!
• Dates are used in tons of paleo "dessert" recipes. You probably want to be careful for this 30 days if you are just starting to cut out sugar because dates are still high glycemic. But I have a few favorites that all involve dates through the food processor. One you mix with chia seeds & coconut oil for an "energy bar". Another is with unsweetened cocoa powder, coconut oil, shredded coconut & walnuts = raw brownie balls. Yum! But better to get the sugar mostly out of your system first, then make these just an every now & then treat.
• I have trouble with this too; I usually get off work about 3 or 3:30 and stop to shop on my way home to save gas. I am tired, cranky, and HUNGRY at that time of day. Nuts work pretty well for me as a snack. I'm about to try making my own jerky. What I really need to do is move dinner time up from 7-ish to 4:30 or 5:00; then I can fix a salad and eat it while the rest of my meal cooks. Fortunately, most paleo meals for me are very simple... a chunk of meat in the skillet and a side of veggies and/or salad. Stocking up on freezer meats, and buying produce twice a week works pretty well for keeping me out of the store most days.

Great advice, is it not?If you're interesting in more information about the 30 Day Paleo Challenge, visit Leanne Ely (aka The Dinner Diva)  at www.savingdinner.com.

First day of 30 Day Paleo Challenge

I'm not sure where to start, and I hate when journals start off like this, but I digress.  I can't say that I'm looking forward to kicking my sugar habit, but I also know that it's got a grip on me tighter than the iron fist of Communism.

Thankfully I have my 30 Day Paleo buddies on FB if I need them.  I guess I wish my family would join me so that I wouldn't have to make them things I can't eat.  Oh well, I suppose that's part of the process.  And, I know I wouldn't want something forced on me if I wasn't ready to make the change.  

I am really stressed right now, so I think I'll take an anti-anxiety pill and see if that helps calm me down. If not, I'll take a quick walk outside.  I have a lot to do today and I'd really rather stay home and sleep - I'm sure that isn't a great coping mechanism, but it's where I'm at.  There's a chance that I'll update this throughout the day as needed.