So… after much thought.
Which included downloading the Whole30.
Twice.
And then the purchase and reading of the Whole30 book – It Starts With Food.
Along with the purchase of the cookbook Well Fed.
I decided to take the plunge.
I kept waiting for a good time to start.
You know… a less busy time.
BWAHAHAHAHAHA
I tried waiting for a 30 day span that seemed would have the fewest of what I call, “Events of Great Temptation”.
Let’s face is folks… while there are clearly a few days here and there that are busier than others, there is no 30 day span of time that is overall less busy than any other. And there is no 30 day span of time that is free of Events of Great Temptation.
On the contrary, I found since I knew I was going to take the plunge sooner than later… I started that pre-“diet” binge-mind was taking over, “Oh… I won’t be able to eat a Blizzard for 30 days I might as well have one two days in a row…” sort-of-thing.
A.K.A. EAT ALL THE THINGS because all food-related happiness will end soon.
I already know I shouldn’t consume much dairy, and even that didn’t keep the Blizzard (or two) away (two days in a row).
I know many have jumped on this train… the Whole 30 train. It’s kind-of “the thing” right now. So those who are reading this who have accomplished it/tried it, I’d love to hear your encouragement, tips, and any favorite recipes.
I’ve already been weaning myself from many of the “foods” prohibited in the Whole 30 (gluten, sugar, dairy, legumes) over the last 7 months. So I already have some experience on my side. Which has caused me to weigh this decision seriously.
I know it won’t be easy.
Over the last 7 months as I have made a lot of dietary changes, I still find that the loss of cheese is my greatest sadness.
It’s not turning away from sugar.
It’s not turning away from chocolate.
It’s not even bread.
IT’S THE CHEESE.
I had no idea my real demon was le queso, y’all.
I started writing this mid Day 1. It is now The beginning of Day 4.
Here was my Day 2:
I wasn’t able to capture Day 3 on account of ALL THE COOKING and a few other things, but here’s a recap.
I am still struggling with headaches. Though not as sever as Day 2.
I am SO THANKFUL I purchase the Well Fed cookbook. I have made the Olive Oil Mayonnaise, the Creamy Italian Dressing, the Sunshine Sauce, the Cinnamon Beef Stew with Orange Gremolata, the Cumin-Roasted Carrots, and the Velvety Butternut Squash. ALL ARE OUTSTANDING, FLAVOR-BURSTING RECIPES.
I can’t wait to make the Chocolate Chili.
This book makes going Paleo look very, VERY sexy.
If I was left to my own devices I would be eating raw carrots and salad and grilled chicken every day. And I would have maybe made it to the afternoon of Day 3. I need variety and I need flavor.
But I don’t need gluten and sugar and cheese to feel satiated.
WHO KNEW.
And I’m not supposed to weigh myself, but I have and I have lost 2 pounds. Which is great, but I’m hoping to find more than weighloss. I’m looking for a less bloat-y belly, and better skin, and more energy, and a clearer mind. From what the write in the It Starts With Food, these are things I should expect to see and feel changes in.
We’ll see.
Yesterday I found myself at a coffee shop for breakfast with friends. Bagels and bananas were my only hungery-belly option. I chose a banana and black coffee. What that taught me was, be prepared at all times. (pack some blueberries, cucumbers, and cashews… maybe keep some hardboiled eggs on hand). I should always bring SOMETHING so I don’t get to a point where I feel I HAVE to choose the bagel, etc… Especially in this 30 day span while I am trying to reset my palate and my body.
Yes? No? Crazy? Brilliant? Impossible?
OK. I need to go shower. Showers are important too. Happy Labor Day weekend, friends!
