Just over a month ago, J and I embarked on a somewhat ill planned journey called the Whole30 (see here and here for how the story began). I had read about the Whole30 a few times, heard some success stories and was basically just looking for a way to restart our Paleo lifestyle. Little did I know the ups and downs we would experience, or how much planning should and would go into this undertaking.
If you’ve read along (catch up here), then you know that the first few days were by far the hardest. This was mainly due to my attempt to kick the caffeine, which after reading and learning a bit more I realized was totally unnecessary– hence the planning I should have done. But after a few horrendous cups of black coffee, I was able to at least kick the sugar from my coffee and now prefer it with just a splash of almond milk (I highly suggest giving this a try).
After nixing the sugar, the most challenging aspect of Whole30 for me was going out with friends. Whether it was dinner and drinks or a lazy Sunday watching football, the abundance of alcohol and processed food was enough to have me questioning my Whole30 dedication quiet a few times. I am happy to say (except for a drink and a piece of J’s Paleo friendly cake on his birthday) we stuck it out and resisted all temptations.
Overall I think the benefits of doing the Whole30 have by far outweighed the challenges I feel better and have more energy, I haven’t had any major stomach pains (a “normal” occurrence prior to Whole30) and as a little bonus I dropped almost two sizes. While this was not the intention of my Whole30, I could not be happier with the results. I also have to say that I highly recommend you take the Whole30 challenge. Pick up a copy of It Starts with Food, read about the plan and take the dive. Not only will you see improvements in your energy and the way you feel, you will learn a lot!
So you may be wondering, are we going to keep it up? Well, after a little indulgence last night while watching the Superbowl (because as I mentioned football = boos and food), J and I have decided that we are going to continue to maintain a strict Paleo lifestyle. While laying in bed last night full, tired and not terribly well, J and I discussed when we would be doing our next Whole30. While I have no doubt that we will do another one soon (maybe even be a bit more prepared) we decided by sticking to our Paleo lifestyle and limiting the “exceptions” we could continue to make healthy decisions and feel good about the fuel we are putting into our bodies!
So, until next time, Whole30 completed and mission accomplished!