30 Day Challenge Results

Sunday officially ended my first 30 days of paleo.  I wanted to share with you the ups, downs, and results. So, I'll start with what everyone looks for...results:  I have lost 13 lbs since beginning my paleo journey.  I'm pretty stoked about this, didn't expect that amount.  I didn't take measurements prior to beginning my new lifestyle, so I can't provide an update on inches lost.  I haven't hit the point of dropping a clothing size yet, but I can definitely tell a difference in the fit of my clothing.  Clothes fit more loosely and more comfortably, but for now, I'm still holding on to my size 22 clothing.  So, how has the last month been?  Well, it's not been as difficult as I thought it might be.  I find that I actually do better with a do and don't list of foods instead of counting calories or points.  Now, I know that's not true for everyone.  There are people who as soon as you say, don't eat refined sugar...that's all they want; hershey's, candy, cake, etc.  But, I think I've approached this transition a little differently than in the past.  I am allowing myself to make mistakes, it's ok if things don't go perfectly.  I'm trying, I won't let my one mistake turn into "Oh, well, I might as well eat this pizza since I slipped and had that muffin this morning."  I'm trying to take my own advice about self judgement and be a little kinder to myself.  It's not about perfection, it's about doing better, feeling better, making progress.  I saw something that said it doesn't matter how slow you are moving as long as you are making progress.  There's some truth in that.  I know at this point I am making forward progress.  The biggest challenge for me was giving up the sodas.  I've already written about that.  I finally feel I have control over my soda cravings.  I even bought a Dr Pepper yesterday.  Took 2 sips (probably 2 or 3 ounces) and threw the rest away.  Again, it's not perfection, but that's definitely some progress.  It's only the second soda I've purchased since starting Paleo and that's pretty impressive to me.  I expected it to be difficult to give up dairy, but that transition hasn't been too bad.  I love drinking milk but have transitioned to almond milk without much issue.  I drink lots of water and do lots of meal planning.  That's probably one of the most difficult adjustments for me is taking time to plan my meals, leaving a meal until last minute is like asking for disaster.  And in my small town, Lara bars, almond butter, and even many fresh vegetables aren't available so a grocery trip to a health food store in Greensboro is required.  So, I'm getting adjusted.  I even turned down yeast rolls from Logan's at a work dinner last night.  Steak, veggies, and a salad doesn't sound too bad, right?

July 2013- 264 lbs

 August 2013-251 lbs