Saturday, August 25, 2012

Phase 1 - Molly

Yes, I am still not pregnant. And I am in the search of happiness in every aspect possible. I am aware that change needs to start with me. And hopefully, changing my insides and my out will lead to something, baby or no baby.

I am hoping that maybe some of you will join me in Phase 1. It is not for the light of heart. Nor is it for the lovers of food.

Phase 1 starts with Food.

I LOVE FOOD. I do not have an advanced palate by any means, but I love good, well prepared food. My dream baby shower would have had buffalo wings, nachos (like at the ball park), cotton candy and caramel corn (maybe one day). I like what I like and I don't branch out too often. But I love to eat.

Eating brings people together, it's an experience, and well, it's fun and satisfying. So it's easy to just eat and not think about what you are eating, where it came from, how it is made or even what is in it.

So starting on September 1st and for the whole month, we are radically changing our diets.

We are going Paleo people.

Who's in?

First, let me explain what Paleo is. I will keep is short and simple. Paleo is the "caveman's diet". If a caveman couldn't forage it, you don't get to eat it. In order, Paleo is: MEAT, VEGGIE, some FRUIT, NUTS and GOOD FATS (avocado, oil, coconut).

Paleo is NOT: DAIRY, GRAINS, LEGUMES, POTATOES, SUGAR, SWEETENERS, CAFFIENE and ALCOHOL (last three are easy). 


So for the month of September we are doing a Whole30. 30 days of strict Paleo meals. No cheats, no paleo-ifying a pan of brownies. Just lean meats, vegetables, some fruits, nuts and healthy fats.

That's all.

I spent our Hawaiian vacation reading a fabulous book. "It Starts with Food" by Dallas and Melissa Hartwig. That really opened my eyes and shut my mouth. Even on vacation I started going bun-less, avoiding dairy and adding more greens to my plate. Since we have been back, I have been eating Paleo, minus a cheat meal or cheat day on the weekends.
And what a difference these past few weeks have made!

While eating Paleo, I am no longer feeling bloated or gassy. I am more regular. My skin has been fantastic and I have energy all day long. My workouts have felt stronger and my clothes fit better.

After a cheat meal or day, as good as the food was, I felt horrible. I'm uncomfortable and my rings won't fit on my hand. I'm backed up and well, I just feel like crap (literally).

So I started to put the pieces together. If what I am eating can have visible, physical effects on my body, what is it doing to the insides of my body? Could I improve my baby situation by radically changing my diet? Either way, baby or no baby, it won't kill me. It will only make me stronger, healthier and physically better.

It's worth a try.

So I got Jason quickly on board. We both have a few extra pounds that just won't go away. Maybe a whole30 will be the key?

So we are starting with 30 days. We hope that it will translate into a lifestyle. And if (a big IF) we get pregnant, I will only be a healthier person for myself and my baby.

So check it out: whole30
Read the testimonials. It might help you make up your mind.

Talk to your husband, your sister or maybe just a roommate and get them on board too.

It's only 30 days.

It may change your life.

If you are interested and want/need more info, email me at stillnotpregnant@gmail.com. I am happy to send you info, keep you updated/on track and share recipes! I will be posting my meal plan, favorite Paleo sites and other information to help you have a successful whole30. Let's start Sept 1st!!

4 comments:

Carie said...

Have you see the Whole 30 Forum? You can get great support over there. Ask questions, get feedback on what you are eating, helps keep you accountable as well. There is even a prego/breatfeeding section. I am a W30 Forum Moderator...hope to see you over there. My thoughts and best wishes are with you. ~ Carie

Olivia Stipe Manke said...

Very interesting! I'm curious to see how it all plays out for you. I've met several women online that have eliminated a few of the things you have and notice a big difference.

Devon T. said...

You are braver than I. Best of luck on your new food adventure. I will be cheering you on from afar, but not joining the fun. Looking forward to hearing the reports.

I've had to cut out most dairy, which has made a big difference in the way my tummy feels, but I'd have a tough time cutting out some of the other items on the list.

Good luck!

claire hubel said...

Hi Molly,

you don't know me, but I have been reading your blog, and I was intrigued (and excited!) to see that you were trying the paleo diet. I have been reading about this for a while, and when I tried it I felt better too. I was wondering whether you had seen this inspiring video by Dr. Terry Wahls...? She had almost miraculous results by following a paleo diet, and was able to halt/reverse her multiple sclerosis. Her point is that everyone can improve their health dramatically by eating paleo. If you are interested in seeing it, here's the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KLjgBLwH3Wc
Best wishes to you,
Claire