Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Things I learned in 30 days

So remember on the old blog when Hubs and I (unsuccessfully) went on something called "Whole 30"?  Well, we went at it again, this time SUCCESSFULLY!!  We did this challenge with our gym, Crossfit Strong so there was some buy-in like a contest, body weight and fat measurements, and muscle mass scans and we had the accountability of our gym-mates and each other.  Yesterday was day 30 and it feels so good to have reached this goal.  In a nutshell, we eat real food – meat, fish, eggs, tons of vegetables, some fruit, and plenty of good fats.  No grains, dairy, legumes (including soy and soy products), and no sugar (real or artificial).  If you want to know more and the WHY behind it, visit the website. 

What I've learned in the past 30 days:

1. I am more powerful than the food that I eat.
2. EVERYTHING that I eat is a CHOICE.
3. Eating well takes preparation.  ALOT of it.
4.  It is not more expensive to eat "healthy".  (When there are only like 3 restaurants you can eat at, eating at home becomes alot more exciting)
5.  Fruit is sweet enough for me.  I don't need added sugar.
6.  Food fuels my body, it does not heal my emotions
7. However, when I eat well, my emotions/mood are more balanced. 
8.  Coconut products (oil, butter, milk, flakes) are my best friend.
9. I now like PLAIN scrambled eggs.  (I didn't 30 days ago)
10. I have gotten stronger. 
11. It shows. 
12. I approach a workout with more confidence because I know I am fueled properly.
13. Read read read your labels. Sugar is sneaky!
14. I don't feel deprived, I feel liberated.
15. Mid-day slump?  What mid-day slump?
16. Kale is our new favorite vegetable. 
17. My recovery (after workouts) is SO much better.  I am not as sore and the soreness goes away more quickly. 
18. I don't feel like my workouts are "making up" for my nutrition. In other words, my workouts actually count for something~hence, stronger!
19. It really isn't that hard to make good choices.
20. I want to keep going.

So now, day 31.  Still going.  Friday we have a plan for our first "cheat" meal that includes queso, pizza, and ice cream, but we are going strong until then.  And will pick it right back up after that meal. 

Yay!