Lurker No More ... Whole30 Day 16

[mrslynch1963]

Well, I guess by virtue of the fact that this is posted I abandoned my lurker status. I'm not sure why I'm doing this, other than to perhaps throw my wonderings into the Whole30-sphere in hopes of validation. I guess this is also a good place to discuss Whole30 things that the other people in my life don't want to discuss. Like how mad I am at artificial sweeteners, and how I can make my own mayonnaise.

And my food issues. I always knew I had food issues. No doubt of that. However, I am just now, 16 days into this thing, realizing that my go-to “drug†was all food. Not just beer or wine or cake or Fritos … ALL FOOD! UGH! Food was entertainment or celebration. I used food to relax or to feel better after a crappy day! Prior to May 1^st, “healthy†food like sugar-free Jello or Organic Corn Chips had been the drug of the day. What a joke! And guess what? I'm sad that I know this, because now I have no drug!

Sometimes I don't want to be an adult and discuss my stress or irritation. I just want to go out for Fro Yo and be happy. LOL

All kidding aside, I know that this trip has been a bigger thing for me than a “let's see if I can lose some fatness†type of deal. I pray that anyone pondering the Whole30 will take a look at this post and understand that there is much more to this process than physical change. The mental and emotional reliance on food as my “soother†has been the biggest revelation in this journey.

I read through many of these forum posts in hopes of gleaning valuable info as I stepped into the Whole30. If that's you, I will tell you this: DO IT! Read the free stuff (then buy the book, it's enlightening) and look for help here, in this place. It's well worth the ride, folks.

[JJB]

I'm sad that I know this, because now I have no drug!

This is me too. I started this way of life at the beginning of the year (I'm trying not to call it a diet, implying it's temporary), and I still find myself dying for ice cream or junk food after a bad day at work or whatever. I've been this way my entire adult life, so I guess it's not unreasonable for it to take more than 6 months to change. But still...it's aggravating! Eating that crap never made me feel better for more than a few minutes while I was eating it anyway. Why can't I get that through my fat head LOL...

[mrslynch1963]

It's crazy how that works, isn't it? I'm sure that, as we continue, there will be other go-to choices for relief of stress and such. I'm hoping to see some type of physical activity, like walking or yoga, fall into that "soother" space. Thanks for commiserating with me ... I appreciate your response.

[calee]

Welcome. I'm on Day 17 as well. I've been a healthy eater for a long time. Started more structured Primal on January 1st. Heard about Whole30 and just jumped in. I've known for decades that I have no interest in drugs or drink, just get away from that chocolate cake before I stab you with my fork.

The first few days of Whole30 I turned to an ounce or two of cashews a day. Ohhhh the crunch. Wait, I should have said crutch! Had to let them go.

I'm here to heal my sleep. If a few pounds drift off in the process, all the better.

Cheers to learning about ourselves!

[mrslynch1963]

After I read Chapter 4 in It Starts With Food, I was mad. Seriously angry. And, truth be told, I'm really not an angry person. I'm pretty easy-going most of the time. Hard to guess after all of this, I imagine. I will most certainly accept responsibility for my choices; I'm all about that. I guess it just makes me mad to know that the food I'd been eating had been engineered to create revenue for a company. Thankfully, now I know.

Cheers to us! Here's to good food, good sleep and good choices!

[mrslynch1963]

I feel like I should alter the title to this thing. I'm not on Day 16. You probably guessed that. I'm on Day 18. And I'm feeling a little less irritable. Good for me, and good for my family and friends!

DAY 18:

I'm wondering about how all of these food choices I'm making will translate into real life. I've read information about re-introduction. I think I don't want to do that. So, what does that mean? Can I continue eating like this, and not call it a "whole" anything? I mean, can this just be the way I eat? Of course it can. I am able to make my own choices. However, I read that this process is not meant to be Whole365. OK, so ... then I guess I shouldn't set myself up for eating like this every day. Me and my silly food issues again. I am nervous about my reliance on food as a crutch. Maybe just an extension of the process. Maybe Whole100? I've seen that around these parts. How does this work for other people here? Maybe this is the wrong place to ask.

Food wise, things are going well. Hunger and cravings are not an issue. Unless I forget my lunch; then it's no bueno! But so long as I'm prepped, it's all good. I'm glad there is such an abundance of seasonal produce available. This makes food choices easier. I have to be honest and say that I haven't really noticed loosening of the clothing. I'm not bothered by this, however, I do think it's important to note so that others know that this process doesn't always result in weight loss. I'm sure this is an established fact; I just wanted to throw my hat into the ring as verification.

Still trying to incorporate consistent exercise into the mix. Note to self: this will help with stress and irritation. Yep, I know. Thanks for that. I'll keep trying!

Happy Saturday ...

[Physibeth]

I wouldn't worry too much about reintroduction yet. Eating this way is pretty long term sustainable. Loosening some of the Whole30 rules makes it easier to eat socially. I think the value in reintro is knowing how things do affect you so that when faced with real world offroading choices you can make wise educated decisions. For now just continue focusing on your Whole30 and worry about reintro on Day 31.

[mrslynch1963]

For now just continue focusing on your Whole30 and worry about reintro on Day 31.

Thanks, Physibeth ... I get a little ahead of myself at times! I appreciate your good advice.

[Beets]

I started feeling scared about the W30 ending about half way through. But you don't need to introduce anything you are afraid of eating. I made up my mind to not eat glutinous grains ever again. (Maybe occasional rice or corn, if no problems come up.)

I think it helps to make a determination that you will more or less stick with the w30 plan if going off of it feels scary. Have complaint food on hand for Day 31. Your brain will be telling you to eat all the stuff you haven't eaten, so being prepared, IME, helps. You can decide a had of time what you want to try to reintroduce or not, and what you might enjoy every once in awhile if it seems worth it.

But it's nice to make up your mind to not freak out about every ingredient (unless something makes you feel really bad, of course) when you eat out, etc.

[mrslynch1963]

I'm glad to know that I'm not the only one who felt a little nervous at the prospect of being finished with the Whole30. I like the idea of continuing the plan, and then maybe making the decision to enjoy an "off-roading adventure" every now and then. Thank you for your help. I appreciate it!

[mrslynch1963]

DAY 20:

Only 10 more days ... I'm not sure how I feel about that. I think I'm alright. This weekend I attended our school's largest fundraiser, complete with chocolate fountains and nacho bar; cooked a large dinner for my extended family; and went to an Angels baseball game - all without non-compliance. It wasn't that big of a deal! So, I guess having only 10 more days in the challenge is no big deal either.

I think I'm heading into the "feel good" space. I don't know if it's "tiger's blood", but it is definitely "I can handle this, no problem!", and that will work for me.

I really appreciate the input from those of you that have done this before. It helps, no doubt.

[mrslynch1963]

Day 22:

I feel good other than I have, once again, committed kitchen mayhem and injured myself while prepping lunch. Seriously! My co-workers are gonna have a heyday with this! The first day of our challenge, I was cooking and had an issue with sticking my index finger in the hand blender while it was still plugged in. I know, should have unplugged prior cleaning. Today, I mandolined my thumb while slicing sweet potatoes. Holy Moly!

I'm still feeling pretty good (other than my thumb!). Food is becoming much less of an issue. I tried tostones ... those are simply awesome! if you have not tried them, you should! Hopefully, I'll finish out the day without any more kitchen traumas.

[JJB]

My boyfriend got me a mandolin slicer a few weeks ago to try and make my Saturday morning zucchini slice-a-thon go a little faster (very thoughtful!). I found it too hard to use the safety grip because the zucchini is floppy (maybe if I cut it in half first...). In that one session I cut 2 of my nail tips off and sliced another on the side when I was just moving it to the sink. That thing scares me lol!! I can totally see a finger getting cut off next. I feel bad but I have stuffed it in the cupboard and don't plan to use it again.

[mrslynch1963]

DAY 23:

One week left in this Whole30 ... unless I decide to go Whole60. I may. I feel like I am just now beginning to see stabilization with regard to food issues and daily life. I don't really miss anything I'm not eating, and I feel like new habits are finally just becoming my regular habits. I don't want to have to label the process in order to continue. I guess I can just keep going with calling what I do anything. I think I'll wait until next week to decide.

My thumb hurts ... I will definitely have to practice caution with the mandolin. Convenient piece of equipment, but not something to be used without extreme caution! Really nice sweet potato chips ...they are enough of a reason to keep the thing, even after my little mishap!

[mrslynch1963]

DAY 26:

Only 4 days left ... I can't believe it! I will weigh in on May 31, with my challenge group, but I have decided to extend my process for another 15 days. I feel like that will add enough time to reinforce all of the new habits. I can't imagine that things will change too much afterwards, however I know that the "training wheels" must come off at one point.

We are having a Memorial Day BBQ today:

BBQ Hamburgers with homemade mayo and ketchup

Cole Slaw

Veggies and Roasted Red Pepper Dip

Sweet Potato Chips

Strawberries

I cook Whole30, and my family eats it without blinking an eye! Good stuff!

[mrslynch1963]

FYI ... my homemade ketchup rocks! But, I do believe it may be too good. Holy Moly ... it was like, what else can I put ketchup on!

We had a super fun get together, but eating too much did occur. I am still in process. This just reinforces the fact that a Whole45 (at minimum)is necessary, and is not just because I'm scared to be done. I need more time to "cement" my new habits into the foundation of my food life.

[Derval]

recipe for ketchup pls?

[mrslynch1963]

Hi Derval! I modified the recipe I found on Paleo Diet Lifestyle. Guests at our little shindig ate it up ... even my sweet daughter's picky-eater boyfriend!

Ingredients:

1 12 oz can tomato paste

1/3 raw white onion (I just put in what I didn't use last night)

1 stalk celery

2 pitted dates

1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

1/2 tsp dry mustard

2/3 cup water

1/2 cinnamon

1/2 tsp salt

1/8 tsp cloves

1/8 tsp ginger

1/8 tsp nutmeg (I had no allspice, so I improvised!)

red pepper flakes (a shake or so ... measuring did not occur)

1/8 tsp coriander seeds

1/2 tsp garlic

1 tbsp extra light olive oil

Blended in my Vita-Mix.

It is very thick. I have a texture thing with food, so I was a little unsure about how it turned out. But the flavor is really nice. I got over the texture thing.

[birder]

Your ketchup recipe looks delicious! I made one with no sweetener that I like. My son is not sold on it. Your he may eat. Thank you. I'm on day 23 and thinking I won't be ready to stop either. Thought I was really strong but I was daydreaming about the candy bars in line to checkout at the grocery store today.

[mrslynch1963]

Hi birder! I found the flavor of the ketchup a bit different than the "regular"ketchup I have always eaten. It does have a sweetness that appeals to me. Probably too much ... I have a little sugar dragon that I must keep at bay.

DAY 28:

This weekend was revealing. I ate too much on Sunday, and felt out of sorts about that. It was all compliant food, but far outside the meal template. Yesterday, I overate watermelon. Revealing. Sugar has always been one of my issues, and I think I may have to pull back a bit on the fruit. I haven't had a big problem with this, but I think that the 30 day mark is giving me weirdness. I've already made the determination that I will press on to at least 45 days, but my challenge group will end Thursday. I will move through the ending process with them. I will check measurements, weigh-in and take a photo. This may be messing with my still existing psychological food issues; another sign that a continuation is necessary.

I still feel well physically. I exercised yesterday, and was surprised at how easy it felt to run, especially after having taken an extended break. My moods have been fairly stable, and I have not had any type of "brain fog" within the past couple of weeks.

I have read about the whoosh, in terms of weight loss, that some people feel within the last few days of this process. I want to chime in on this. I am not saying that it is anything huge or significant, but I have noticed that my clothes feel looser and that I feel "lighter" the last few days. I think this should be noted. I did not feel as if I had lost any weight within the first 25 days of the challenge; all of a sudden, I woke up feeling "lighter". My clothes fit better. I am thankful, but also apprehensive as I approach weigh in. It is certainly telling with regard to the scale ... I'm going to work through it, but this is clear evidence that it takes longer than 30 days to repair existing issues.

[calee]

Congrats on your process. We started the same day. I'm not sure how long I will extend but I'm not done yet. I'm not waiting for magic, just to wake with great energy. I gave up coffee on Day 15 and my 1 morning cup of black tea over the weekend. Waiting for the caffeine detox to end to see how I feel.

That's great that you're feeling lighter. The scale might be the same while you are shifting things around. I too feel like my clothes are a bit looser.

I'll be interested in your decision whether to continue.

[AuntB]

I agree with Calee- I'm interested in seeing if you choose to continue. I really think i'm going to do a whole60 at the least. I was a constant scale jumper, and calorie counter. This way of eating is so freeing for me. I really enjoy it.

[mrslynch1963]

DAY 31:

Well, it came. The day at the end. It's seems a bit bittersweet ... my first Whole30 is over. I will take a day to celebrate with my challenge group, and eat a paleo-fied muffin. Tomorrow I will begin another NEW Whole30. I like the idea of beginning on the 1st of the month.

Stats:

Weight loss: 3.2 lbs

I feel that my first days/weeks on Whole30 were an adjustment for my body. My pants actually got tighter and I remember thinking that this was not what I had hoped would happen! I had to remind myself that I had been eating no calorie, low calorie junk food. Switching to whole, unprocessed food was a much better choice but that food HAD calories! I told myself to chill out, and get ready for whatever came my way because it was going to be better than what I had been doing. I was right! My pants are fitting much better than they did before Whole30. (I think the anxious feeling I had getting on the scale today is another indication of how another round can benefit me psychologically.) A loss of 3.2 lbs is way better than a gain, so I'm happy!

Inches lost: A total of 5.75"

I feel good about this! 3" of this came off of my round little belly! Another inch in both my waist and my hips, and .75" in my upper arm! I'm thankful I took measurements. It helped to know that there was progress made in removing fatty deposits! (OK, it might have been water, but I'm going to be happy nonetheless!)

There are so many other benefits that have resulted from this process, way too many to list in the time I have before work!

Have a great day!

[1Maryann]

Congrats! I did 3 W30s over the past year, and eventually slipped back to my old habits each time. Apparently I'm stubborn and need a longer reset period. I started a W100 with a group Jan 1 (100 Days of Awesome), and while it isn't recommended, it was what I needed to truly change my mindset. We kept a post-W30 log (Happily Ever After 100 Days of Awesome). I've remained mostly compliant since, until the piece of lasagne the other night.

My first 3 W30s, it was easy to slip because the physical reactions to the naughty food wasn't there. But this time, my body's reaction to dairy and wheat was swift and painful. As bad as I felt, I was glad. I needed the aversion therapy to cement for me how bad this stuff is for my health.

I'm about to embark, with the group, on another W30 tomorrow, just to keep us centered. Feel free to drop by our thread. All are welcome! this one is called "30 Days of Awesome".

[calee]

Big big congrats on completing your Whole 30!! I'm so happy to read how pleased you are with your progress. I felt the same way this morning. The place I noticed the change most was in my connection to food, and yes, I need at least another 30 days. Physically I feel a difference in my tummy. No bloat! I put on a pair of capris today that we're snug in April. Today, baggy in the tummy.

Rock on for another great month! I'm right there with you.