Whole30- Paleo

I have done a little bit of research on the Paleo lifestyle over the last year or so.  But, I never gave it too much thought.  Eating clean and making small choices in the healthy direction was more my style.  But, lately I found this website and it talked about the whole30 challenge.  I have just continued to hear more and more good things from eating this way that I couldn't ignore it anymore.

I have heard things from friends like they now have more energy, sleep better, feel stronger for workouts, no more aches and pains, didn't realize how much eating grains and dairy affected their stomach and they feel so much better now. Other great benefits include fat loss instead of muscle loss.  Most importantly people who adopt this kind of lifestyle are reducing the risk of numerous diseases and disorders caused by the (S.A.D) Standard American diet.  Sounds great doesn't it!?

A lot of people have problems with grains, dairy, legumes and their digestive system or how it makes them feel lethargic.  Most people are switching to gluten free grains, etc.  I think it sounds like a great idea to eliminate those toxic foods for 30 days to see how I feel and if I notice any changes.

The focus of the Whole30 is 30 days of total healthy eating including Meats, veggies, fruits, healthy fats, nuts and seeds.  You can see more about how to get started HERE.  If you are struggling with diet, I think going completely to the basics and focusing on eating real, whole food is a great place to start.  When you change your mind to think about feeding your body for fuel and don't worry so much about what you can't have it helps you to think about food in a whole new way! I'm excited to try the Whole30.  After that I plan to add in a few other "paleofied" foods little by little.  Some paleo plans allow a little dairy including Whey protein, greek yogurt, etc but only 5% of the time.  I found this guide helpful for learning more about the Paleo lifestyle.  If you put in your email address they send you a free guide to download, it is quite long...maybe 20 pages.  But, I found it helpful.  This is kind of what I plan to do after the Whole30 or just add in a few whole grains, legumes and dairy one by one to see how I feel after not having them for 30 days.  The hard part for me is not having my protein shake or making "healthified" snacks with honey, wheat flour, oats etc. But, I'm excited to see if I notice any changes. I'm excited to just get to the basics. I've been putting together my meals plans and it seems like it will be great! I put together a group on facebook for others who are joining me April 1st. We already have some great resources on there to help.  I'd love for you to join us. I think it's always better to have a support group. Eating whole, real foods and no processed junk is always a good thing! Can't wait.  I'm going to use this as my journal of sorts as we go through the whole 30 days.