Pass the Latte!

An old picture.... but fully displays the way I feel about Chai! =)

In 18 days, I will have made it an entire year without a substantial amount of sugar. What an accomplishment. I have been asked, "What will you eat first?" and "Will you go back to sugar?" This year I have felt healthier than I have in years... maybe ever. = ) I have more energy and less illness. Nothing short of amazing. Truly amazing. My answer to the questions?? I may take one day "off" of non-sugar. My day off will without a doubt include a Chai Latte and possibly one well choosen sugary treat. On January 2nd 2011, I will again be sugar free. I am hesitant to write this but I may include dairy. When I am dairy free I feel even better. So, pass the latte and celebrate......another year of sugar free!

Still sugar free-update.

I am still sugar free! YAY! I am still striving to be the healthiest me I can be. In the pictures above, I am wearing the same exact brand and style of jeans just several sizes smaller in the first picture. I feel amazing after shedding all those pounds (35+ to date). I still have more weight to shed but I am not as ambitious as I was at first. My goal now (more than ever) is to eat healthy and nutritious foods. We try to abstain from most soy (unless it is organic and then it is a minimal intake), all hydrodginated oils, sugar, non-organic corn (due to GMOs), and unidentifiable ingredients. Going sugar free has opened my eyes to an entire new way of eating.

Food sensitivies/allergies.

I was listening to the radio and heard a holistic Dr talking about an IgG blood test used to test for food sensitives. Food sensitives are delayed food intolerance's and are not detected on the standard allergy test (IgE test). According to foodallergytest.org, 80% of the population have food sensitivities while only 5% have true allergies. WOW! 80%??? My chiro says over 2/3 of the population have a gluten sensitivity!! Seriously!?!?!

Since finding out my food sensitivities and avoiding them, I feel amazing! =)

Laundry soap!

I make my own laundry soap! It is extremely cost saving (about 2$ for 5 gallons) and works great!
I have been using it for about a year now. I thought I would share the recipe. I substitute dove soap for the Fels-Naptha because it is more gentle. The consistency of the soap is thinner than store bought-possibly because I substitute Dove soap.

Here is the recipe:
4 cups HOT water
1 bar Fels-Naptha
1 cup Arm and Hammer Super Washing Soap (NOT baking soda)
1/2 cup borax

Grate bar of soap into a sauce pan with hot water on medium/low heat. Continue to stir in soap until dissolved.
Fill 5 gallon bucket half full of hot water. Add all ingredients including dissolved soap. Stir until all powder is dissolved. Fill bucket to top with hot water and stir. Cover and let sit all night to thicken.

To use: fill old clean laundry container with 1/2 laundry soap and 1/2 water. Add 10-15 drops of essential oil per 2 gallons if desired.

Makes 10 gallons. Use 5/8 cup per load or front load machines use 1/4 cup.

Note: I do not dilute (add water) to my laundry soap. I just use less. =)

HFCS and cancer!!!

High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) has been linked to cancer. (Click on the word cancer to view the link), I knew cancer feeds on sugar but I found it even more interesting that cancer cell grow even faster with fructose! HFCS is in everything! I mean everything. It is amazing what you learn when you start reading labels. When we decided to go organic/natural one of the first things we eliminated was HFCS. We buy items without it or make from scratch.

Yet another reason to be sugar free. I knew there was a good reason I was sugar free in 2010.

Dairy Free.

I am now dairy free. I have a very annoying patch of eczema on the back of my scalp. I was tested (by my chiro using kinesiology) and I have a dairy sensitivity. I am adding dairy to my list of a foods I avoid. My sensitivities include: dairy, gluten, splenda, apples, grapes, almonds, peanuts, coffee, stevia, chia tea, oatmeal, strawberries, and mushrooms. I also avoid soy (most soy is GMO/ genetically modified), pork, and sugar (all forms).

Of all the food I avoid, dairy is by far the hardest for me to give up!! I LOVE cheese. =) I had a discussion with my chiro and dairy is basically reeking havoc on my immune system! I gave up dairy for an entire week (seemed much longer) and my eczema improved only a little. I was discouraged, but I since found out it can take up to a month. wow. =) So, I am on week two and I hope the eczema is gone in the next 2-3 weeks.

I am still sugar free and am trying to lose weight, however, I admit I have been slacking. My previous post about the detox diet lasted all of 5 days! My goal was 21 days. Consequently, I did not have a tremendous weight loss. I had also been exercising 5-6 days a week for 30+ minutes and I am now down to 2-3 times a week.

So, I am challenging myself to exercise more and loose 5lbs in the next 2 weeks. Eliminating dairy has severely limited the foods I can eat. I have not gained even an ounce without the added exercise. I believe if I step up the exercise and do not snack at night I will be able to loose the weight! I will keep posting.

Detox diet!!

MY LUNCH!!!! I LOVE summer veggies.

I really need to lose more weight so I am doing the detox diet without the supplements!!

The detox diet is:

Fruit-Fresh or Frozen

Veggies (1/2 must be raw and eat 2xs as many as fruit)-fresh or frozen

NO potatoes (except sweet) and NO corn

Protein shake

At least 64 oz of water

On day 11 you can start adding chicken and fish

I am adding eggs occasionally and am gradually stepping down my caffeine (to save from getting a headache). I only drink tea so I will be having 1 1/2 glasses of tea today, 1 tomorrow, and 1/2 the next day, and 1/4 the next day.

I am also completing 20+minutes of exercise per day (6 days a week) with 2-3 days of running. I usually run for at least an hour.. =)

My sister in law is also doing this with me! Yay

When I did the Standard Process Detox, I lost 15 lbs!!

Here is to another 15lbs!

6 mos sugar free.

6 months sugar free and 6 more months to go for an entire year sugar free!

I am also gluten and more recently, dairy free. I am dairy free because I have eczema at at the base of my scalp. It is extremely annoying. I was tested (using kinesiology) and I seem to have a dairy sensitivity. Hopefully, eliminating dairy will relieve my eczema. If not, I am sure to lose weight. =)

I am also running (yes, running) about 8-10 miles per week. I am working towards the goal of running Mackinac Island in October (the Island is 8 miles).

I have lost a grand total of about 30lbs this year. I am feeling fit and looking amazing! I can't wait to loose even more weight.

Hubby's bday tomorrow......

My husband's birthday is tomorrow and he does not eat gluten OR sugar!!! I have been searching for a recipe that would meet these qualifications and I found one that looks so yummy!

I am going to make Coconut Cupcakes with Key Lime Icing (http://www.elanaspantry.com/coconut-cupcakes-key-lime-icing/) YUMMO!!

I can't wait to try these!

I'm shrinking... ... ....

I am losing inches, but I still have extra inches in my tummy. I recently called in my measurements for a dress (I'm going to be in a wedding). The measurements were (European sizes):
chest: size 14
waist: size 16-18
hips: size 12.

EEEeeek! I have a thick mid-section! No wonder my "skinny" clothes don't fit the same way. I am sure the extra padding around my waist has everything to do with back to back pregnancies and the rapid weight gain.

I still have 20+lbs to loose so here is my new strategy:

1. Count calories (1600 per day)
2. RUN, jog, walk 3xs a week for an hour+
3. Jillian Micheal's 3Xs a week
4. Get more sleep (7hrs a night)
5. Drink water (this is sooooo hard for me. I tend to drink tea).
6. Reduce calories weekly/biweekly as needed.

Calorie Counter!!

Post detox-I look like this:

I am still wanting to lose 20-25 lbs!! I have conquered my sugar addiction but I am still working on my food addiction. I LOVE food. So, I loose weight 15lbs at a time and gain a few pounds back. I have lost 30lbs since going sugar free. I am not willing to give up any ground I have gained so I am going to start counting calories. I am also not going to eat after dinner!!! And, I am starting to RUN!! whoo hoo. I never thought I would be a runner. I am running 5 blocks/walking 1! Soon, I will not be walking at all. I am up to about 4 miles at a time. I am training to run 8 miles by this fall! =) Whoo hooo! =)

Day 21-Last day (maybe)

So, today was my 21st day on my detox!!!! Tomorrow, I am going to continue with the diet but drink a HUGE tea! I miss iced tea with Stevia!
I feel amazing. I have been EXTREMELY busy so I have not been getting 8hr sleep per night and I am still hanging on.
I have learned to not eat all the time-just when I am hungry.
I have NO dependence on any food and do NOT crave carbs at all!



Total weight lost through detox: 15 lbs

Finish STRONG!!!!!!!!!! Day 20!!!

Tomorrow is my last day of detox. I think I am going to continue the diet part for a few more days. I REALLY REALLY want tea! haha to funny! I want tea of all things. =) Iced tea with Stevia to be exact. Ahhh!
Need to start training for my 8 mile run in October. I ran 4 laps (1/4 mile) non consecutive tonight. Double the amount 2 weeks ago. I need to start running every few days.
I dug out my "skinny clothes" Most can be zipped but are TIGHT. 20 more pounds to reach my goal! =)

weight loss:14lbs

Day 18! Where did all this energy come from???!?!?!

I am getting over my cold! Finally!!!! =) Today was so productive! I cleaned, cooked, worked out, played with the kids, shopped, cooked (more), cleaned (always cleaning), prepared for garage sale, etc and I still have energy! I hope that I keep this up after the detox is over. =)

Weight loss to date:13 lbs

3 more days go to... can't wait to have some ice tea!! =)

Day 17! Only 4 more days.

Today was encouraging! I worked out. Level 1 Jillian Micheal's Shred! I think I like level 2 better. After my work out, I went down stairs and retrieved my box labeled "Melanie's Skinny Clothes" Some of them actually fit! I haven't worn those clothes in 4 years! =) WHoo hoo. I also retrieved my summer clothes. I tried on last year summer's capris... wow, have I lost inches. I need to post pictures. It is very remarkable.

Wight loss to date 13lbs.

Day 16--exercise!!

Today I exercised-just fast paced walking. I am still not feeling 100%. We did plant our garden today! Yay! So excited.
Aside from my cold (or whatever it is), I am feeling great. I get up with energy and start munching my salad! haha. Seriously, I have salad for breakfast.

I am a little worried about what to do when I end the detox. I think I will count every calorie!!! I still have at least 20 lbs to loose! =) I saw my reflection in the mirror today and I still have a double chin! YUCK!

Day 15.....may I have a cracker PLEASE!!!!

Today, I bought the kids some gluten free crackers. They still get some gluten but for the most part, they are also gluten free. I love gluten free crackers... they are so yummy. I miss them! I also miss popcorn. Oh, and to top it off, our local health food store was giving out samples of gluten free food and had coconut ice cream with gave on sale for just over 3.00 a carton. Being the wonderful wife and mother I am, I bought some for my family. I am watching my husband eat the creamy ice cream as I type. Enough about food I can't have!!!
I seriously have a cold or sinus issue. I wanted to exercise today but was running extremely low on motivation and energy. UGHHH!!! I still have 20 lbs to lose! I need to get my bones moving!
Tomorrow will be better.
I am proud to say-I have not deviated from my diet at all. I am feeling wonderful with the exception of this cold.

Weight loss to date: 12 lbs.

Day 14-one more week!

Well, I have a cold or sinus issues or something going on. Strange. I was hoping to exercise today, but it didn't happen! =( Hopefully, tomorrow will be better day.

Weightloss to date: 12 ish lbs

Day 13! Only 8 more days!

I can't believe there are only 8 more days to this detox... time is flying. I do miss the freedom to have a little carbs here and there. 8 more days!!! I haven't lost a lot a weight this week but hopefully, I will lose more next week when I am exercising more.


Total weight loss:12lbs

Day 12: over 1/2 way there!

Yay! I have made it 12 days.. only 9 more to go. I have not been loosing weight like I did the first week. I am a little discouraged but am coming up with a strategy! Here it is: reduce numer of protein drinks to 2 (I was having 3-one with each meal), work out EVERY day (no exceptions), and concentrate on eating more veggies and less fruit.
I can't wait to post pictures! I put on size 10 jeans and they ALMOST fit! Hopefully, in 9 days they will fit!
After the program, I am going to continue eating this way a majority of the time and using protein drinks. I so desire to loose my last 20-25lbs!!!

Weight loss to date:11 lbs.

Day 11-Salmon never tasted so good!

Yay! Happy meat day! whoo hoo. I am no longer a vegetarian. I can eat meat- 3 ounces at a time! Tonight, I had salmon, spaghetti squash, broccoli, and protein shake. Can I just say... YUM! I had a dr apt (chiro apt) and I feel great. Apparently, strenuous exercise is not an issue because I am young and healthy. Jillian Micheal's here we come. =0)

Weight loss: 11lbs

Day 10....last day as a vegetarian!

Yay! Tomorrow I get to add in protein in the form of meat. I never thought I would be so excited to eat meat! I am allowed 2-4 servings of chicken or fish with the majority being fish! I think it is time for variety and with meat I can make a yummy stir-fry to go on top of my 1/2 cup of brown rice. =) Yep, you are only allowed an 1/2 cup of brown rice or 1 cup of lentils. The lentils are preferred.
After feeling wimpy yesterday (after my bike ride) I upped the food intake today-in the form of veggies and fruits of course. I was a little dizzy this AM but now I am feeling much better. I am almost positive I did not eat enough yesterday. I also concentrated on drinking plenty of water today-way more than 64 oz.
I did not work out today but plan to work out tomorrow!
Weight loss to date: over 10lbs.

Day 9... meat please!

Today was pretty hard. I feel GREAT... AMAZING actually! But, I wanted something other than veggies and fruit today. I went on a 13+mile bike ride and I felt wimpy afterwards. I am not used to that feeling. Maybe it was a harder ride than normal-I am not sure. Maybe it was detoxing?? I don't know. However, I can't wait until I eat meat! I don't think I would enjoy being a vegetarian under these restrictions.

2 more days until MEAT!


Weight loss: 10+lbs.

Day 8-10lbs lost!

You read that right! I have lost 10lbs as of this morning! WOW! I feel amazing. Today, I added a new supplement to the regiment as outlined in the detox program and in 3 days I get to start eating lean meats! whoo hoo! My vegetarian days are nearing an end.

I have discovered that I LOVE raw onions in my salad. I didn't think I was a raw onion fan but I love the way they accent a salad. Yummmooo!!!! Oh, and the sweetness in veggies (sweet potatoes, carrots, beets, etc) and fruit is very prominent.

total weight loss: 10lbs (in one week)

Day 7-It has been a week.

Typical Dinner- White carrots, 1/2 sweet potato, beet, asparagus (all steamed to perfection) and a protein drink. White carrots are a new addition to my diet. They are yummy steamed and slightly sweet. The texture is slightly different than orange carrots.

I feel phenomenal. I feel lean and in shape. I did not work out today but I am trying to workout 3-5 times a week.

My clothes are getting loose and I am so excited. I hope to fit in all the clothes in the box marked "Melanie's Skinny clothes" within the next month or so... =)

Weight loss so far: 8+lbs

DAY 6!! Feeling even better.

Today, I feel wonderful. I was extremely busy all day and did not feel sluggish at all. I was full of energy. I went walking/running this evening, so I got my exercise. I add another supplement on Day 8 and I can eat meat on Day 11 so my vegetarian days are coming to an end. =)

Total weight loss to date: 7+lbs.

Day 5-Feeling good!

Today, I was hungrier than I have been and I feel like I was always eating. On day 11 I get to add protein (fish, chicken, etc) so that should help! =) I don't eat a lot at one time and think my stomach has shrunk. I am more focused.
I have more energy today. I went on a walk with the family tonight and hope to add an exercise routine next week (ie, JM Shred).

Weight loss to date: 7lbs

day 4....minor headache!

Day 4.
I had real fleeting cravings today. I craved tortilla chips and cheese on separate occasions. I don't understand tortilla chips but I LOVE cheese.
I exercised today! Whoohoo. It was not the Jillian Micheals Shred workout that I am used to-I just took a walk. The Detox info says not to complete strenuous workouts... but I am contemplating the JM workout on level one! Haha
I do have a minor headache and I am tired so I think I am going to go to bed!

Weight loss 5+ lbs. Not bad for 4 days!

Day 3! ahhh sleep!

ZZZZZZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz!!!!!

Day 3-Last night I was so tired I fell asleep a little after 9pm. I never go to sleep that early! I slept until nearly 7am. I was exhausted! I am still feeling a little sleepy today but felt energetic most of the day. My headache is almost completely gone. I raked the garden and played outside with the kids! I am hoping to exercise more tomorrow.

My daily menu includes:
Breakfast: Salad, raw veggies, little bit of fruit and protein drink blended with fruit.
AM Snack: I often forget to snack but my grab carrots, broccoli, etc.
Lunch: same as breakfast
PM Snack: same AM snack
Supper: Steamed veggies, fruit, and protein drink blended with fruit.
I was using organic olive oil blended with vinegar and spices as salad dressing but have decided I like avocado and bits of fruit in my salad instead.

I rarely get hungry.
Weight loss to date: 5 1/2 lbs

Day 2!!!

So, update. =) Last night I had a throbbing headache. I decided to tough it out so I grabbed a cold washcloth to put on my head. It helped very little and I tossed and turned all night and slept little. When I woke up, I weighed myself and to my delight, I LOST 4LBS! Yes, 4lbs in one day! Now, back to the headache. I decided I was going to tough it out. I rested before church and it lessened. By the time we got home from church my head was throbbing and company was coming. I took a low dose of ibuprofen. Probably not the smartest move but it was a killer headache! The headache lessened significantly and hasn't returned. I am sluggish and tired today. My body feels leaner-less bloated.
Weird observation today-I don't really get hungry or have cravings. I just feel a pain in my stomach and know I should eat. I don't really think about food... probably because I know I can't have what I really want! Fruit and some veggies taste so sweet. VERY sweet. Yum. I look forward to fruit. I miss my Chi tea.
I figured out I like beets. Not pickled like my mom canned but steamed. YUM! They taste sweet. Also, I made a salad with romaine lettuce, red cabbage, avocado, cantaloupe, tomato, and green onion. Sounds weird but it was so good. =)

Detoxing-1st day!

I am using Standard Process 21 day Detox! Notice all the supplements and protein shakes. I am eating ONLY fruits, vegetables, and protein drink for the fist 7 days. On the 8th day, I will start adding chicken and fish into my diet. I will be eating twice as many fruits as veggies and half of the veggies must be raw. I am not taking the herb that controls carb cravings because I do not eat sugar or gluten.

I am hoping to loose weight as well as detox. I uploaded before pictures and hope to be updating pictures as the detox progresses.

On my first day, I am very sluggish and have a headache. Being the klutz that I am, I hit my head today, so I am not sure if the pain is detox or self inflicted. I did NOT have cravins today! Crazy... sugar free totally rocks!!! I did not exercise today but I will start to add exercise when my energy returns. I am told by the 3rd or 4th day my energy level will soar. My metabolism should be running at an optimal level until I indulge in sugar (won't be this year). I am going to try to update my blog daily. I am so excited and have high expectations for this detox.

Sugar Free Recipes!!

Honey Orange Chicken
modified Chef Shaun recipe from KPS


3/4 cup orange juice
1/3 cup honey (we also use agave)
1 t grated ginger
1 t garlic
zest from one orange
1 t salt (optional)
1/8 t pepper
1 1/2 lbs chicken breast
1 t vegetable oil (we use coconut)

1. Combine first seven ingredients. Add chicken and stir to coat
cover and refridgerate for 30 minutes.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat until hot; add vegetable oil and swirl to coat. Lift chicken from marinade and let excess drip back into bowl. When oil is hot, add chicken and cook over medium heat 3 minutes per side until golden brown.
3. Add reserved marinade to skillet and boil over medium-high heat, turning chicken once or twice, 3 to 5 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and sauce is reduced by half. Transfer chicken to cutting board, cut into diagonal slices, and arrange on a plated. Spoon sauce over chicken.

***We make this recipe nearly every week. The kids LOVE it! We eat it over rice.


Citrus Salmon
Recipe by Melanie

Zest from one orange (or Lemon)
2 teaspoons grated ginger
3 Tablespoons softened (not melted) butter
3 Tablespoons agave or honey
1 teaspon garlic (or one clove minced)
1 lb salmon (wild caught)

Grease a pie pan or 9 x9 glass dish. Mix first 5 ingredients. Put mixture over salmon. Bake at 400 degrees for 10 minutes or until Salmon flakes.

My kids LOVE this recipe! They ask for Salmon and it is so healthy!!! =)

REFLECTION!!!!

I was reflection today about how my life has changed since going sugar free!

Here are a few improvements:

1. I no longer want sugar. It looks good, it smells good, and I am sure it would taste good, but I now how harmful it would be!

2. I really do not crave sugar. If for some bizarre reason I have a craving-the craving is extremely mild and I can talk myself out of it!

3. I have energy! I do not crash in the afternoons.

4. I feel good enough I may never go back to consuming sugar.

After my detox my metabolism will be "restarted" until I have my first serving of -you guessed it, SUGAR!!! (According to my chiropractor)

detoxing!!!

Today, I went to the chiro and have started detoxing, however, I will not be adding the weight loss (diet) part until next Friday-April 30th. I was tested for bugs (viral, bacterial, fungus, etc) and am on 4 different detox supplements. As suggested by the chiro, I am going to let the supplements fight off all the bugs before adding the diet. 2 of the 4 supplements can make me feel icky.
I am so excited to start the diet element of the detox. From what I have heard, I may lose 15lbs in 21 days!!! I am so excited. I may be crazy getting so excited about eating only fruits, veggies, and protien shakes!

I have started the Jillian Micheal's 30 day shred. I completed day 2 on the second level (there are 3 levels). I am sore but I am determined.

Goals!!! 2 days until I start my weight loss detox!!

I am so excited about my 21 day detox!!! I will be eating ONLY fruit, veggies, and protein shakes for the first 10 days.(50% more veggies than fruit, and 50% of my veggies are to be raw) Following the 1st 10 days, I will be adding small quantities of lean meat. I will be drinking at least 64 oz of water and taking supplements (several pills)! I have heard of people losing an incredible amount of weight.

I will also be starting Jillian Micheal's 30 day shred work out!! YAY!

1. Start Shred workout MONDAY!
2. Drink 64 ounces of water starting MONDAY!
3. Shop for a variety of veggies and fruit.
4. Blog EVERY day of detox (and add pictures)

counting down, goals

9 days until I start my weight loss cleanse!!! Yay! I am so excited. I will be starting April 21st with eating fruits, veggies, and protein drinks. =) I will post more about this cleanse as I start it. For those of you who know the dangers of completing a cleanse, I will be monitored by a health care professional!

Goals:
1. Maintain weight loss
2. Drink more water
3. Portion control (eat less)
4. Locate 30 day shred video (Jillian Micheal's) to use during my cleanse
5. Exercise 3-5 times this week!
6. Watch cleanse video to prepare for cleanse (I have a video that explains the steps of the cleanse)

I am still sugar free!!!!! =) (and my husband is 10+ days sugar free!!!!

Super yummy

Granola bars:

4 1/2 cups rolled oats

1 cup all purpose flour (I use a GF multi-purpose flour)

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp vanilla

2/3 cup butter, softened (I use coconut oil or a combo of both)

1/2 cup honey

1/3 cup brown sugar

2 cups nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips (I use raisins and dried cherries)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 325. Lightly grease 9x13 pan.

2. In bowl combine oats, flour, soda, vanilla, butter, honey, brown sugar. Stir in 2 cups of nuts, fruit, or chocolate chips.

3. Lightly press mixture into prepared pan. Bake at 325 for 18-22 minutes or until golden brown.

Let cool 10 minutes and cut into bars. Let cool completely before removing from pan.

*I press the granola bars with a spatula as soon as they come out of the oven and they hold together better.

**If you cut them early or get them out of the pan early they will crumble. =)

***I make at least 2 batches at a time and bag them individually. I put them in the fridge or freezer as a quick snack. The kids love 'em!

*****This is not a sugar free recipe so I do not eat them!! I have made them sugar free with agave but I sill do not eat them (because I do not eat oats). BUT the people in my life that eat these say they are better than store-bought granola bars!!!

pictures-yay for progress!

To date, I have lost 20lbs!! I would like to lose at least 25 more pounds!! =)

Lately, I am struggling to complete full workouts. I am still exercising abour 3 times a week, but I would like to intensify the workouts!!!

My husband is on board!!! (oh, and goals!)

My husband has started going to my chiropractor!!!! He found out his food sensitivities (a VERY extensive list that INCLUDES SUGAR!!!!) and he is doing a cleanse. He already started the cleanse!!! =) So, my husband is sugar free- it is his 5th day and he will be sugar free for at least 3 months!
I will be starting my cleanse April 21st (maybe before).
I have finished my Biggest Loser 12 week program. I lost 20lbs in 12 weeks. I am planning to lose 20 more by July. I need to find another workout program. Until I find a program I am going to complete a shortened Biggest Loser program. I would like to do the 30 day shred and I hope to run 8 miles in October. I need to start training!
In the past few weeks I have realized I do not have "crashes" when I feel like I need to eat. I don't crave food. Sometimes, I forget to eat. Weird. Before eating healthier, I would eat all the time and feel like I needed to eat all the time. I would feel like I needed to eat something sweet right after a big meal!! Now, I don't.
Also, I have more energy! I feel like I don't have enough day for all my energy-instead of not having enough energy for my day (like the old me).

This weeks Goals:
1. Work out 3-5 times.
2. Water, water, water.
3. Find more recipes of acceptable foods.
4. Upload more pictures to blog and blog more!

temptation!

My husband and I went away for the weekend. We went to a wonderful cabin of luxury. The staff members kept delivering us sugar filled sweets in our butler's door. My husband was munching on some ingredients for smores and half-heartedly tried to get me to eat some of it. And, I thought to myself, "I have not come this far to eat smores at the end of March!" The more I reflect on that moment, the more I realize I WILL finish this year without sugar simply because I have not come this far to ingest a bite of candy, cake, chocolate, etc. I can not think of anything containing sugar that would be worth eating!

Goals this week!!!!I have really slacked in most areas so I need to get back on track!!!
1. Drink more water! At least 2 quarts.
2. Work out at least 3-5hrs this week!
3. No eating after 9 and always eat protein even with snacks!
4. Research Mediterranean diet.

goals goals goals

Goals for this week:

1. Do all of my biggest loser work outs (some of them are over an hour!!!!).
2. Drink water.
3. Watch portion control.
4. Continue reading Jillian Micheals book on metabolism
5. Limit dairy!


My hubby and i are going away for the weekend! YAY! So, I am going to take the weekend off. =) I am still going try to eat healthy but I am going to relax and enjoy our time together!

Back in the game!!!

Yay! Soooooo I weighed in! And guess what?!?! I lost 2 more lbs. Game on! Time to get busy and loose more weight. I still have 25 more lbs to lose (at least 25). At some point, I want to train for a race. The goal for this year is to RUN Mackinac Island in October. The Island is 8 miles, so I need to start running!

Today, I went out to eat and had fish, plain backed potato and salad (dressing on the side). I did not even miss all the other stuff-bread, croutons, deep fried whatever, etc. It occurred to me, I am not dieting. I am changing the way I eat!! How exciting.

New pictures coming soon!=)

What cravings?

This afternoon I was going through my normal routine when I realized I am not craving anything. I can put items into the pantry without wanting to consume everything in the pantry! I used to eat-well, maybe devour whatever I wanted. I thought about food ALL THE TIME! Now, I am living life without thinking, dreaming, and scheming about food. I have to credit this to cutting out sugar and processed food! What a difference! =)

In 2-3 weeks I am going to start an intensive 21 day detox! I am so excited. I am hoping my husband and I can do it together! I am going to be monitored by my very holistic chiropractor. I know little about detox other than I really need to clear the toxins out of my body.

Wow, this is not easy!

I did it!!! I baked, frosted, and served a cake without consuming ANY of it! WHEWWW! So tempting! Man, does it feel good to know that I am conquering this sugar habit! I loved to eat raw dough, lick beaters, etc. I have NEVER gone without sugar so long in my life.

I can now wear every item of clothing in my closet! yay! I haven't been able to do that in 3 years. Now, on the to the box labeled "Melanie's Skinny clothes" in the basement!

I am having a very difficult time avoiding dairy. At home, I am okay with dairy substitution and elimination from my diet, but when I am away from home I find in nearly impossible! I think the primary reason is because I avoid so many food items! For instance, if we have lasagna and salad (when visiting friends) I would only be able to eat salad and spaghetti sauce. Noodles have gluten and lasagna is filled with dairy! Needless to say, I consumed a limited amount of dairy this weekend. I tried to make it a small amount. UGHHH. I am disappointed but I will keep trying to get it right while limiting/eliminating dairy.
Goals:
1. Work out 3-5xs this week
2. Reduce food consumption
3. Limit/eliminate dairy
4. LOSE weight-shouldn't be hard. I hopped on the scale and have lost 3lbs since my last weigh in! =)

life tastes better with cheese on it!

I am addicted to dairy. I will admit it. I love love LOVE cheese. I eat cheese on everything that you could put cheese on: eggs, chips, pasta, apple pie (yes, I said apple pie) to name a few. I LOVE cheese. I love milk, yogurt, sour cream, cream cheese, etc. I LOVE dairy. So, skipping dairy has been a challenge. But, I have to be loosing weight. I look in the cupboard and nothing looks good without dairy. With my food sensitivities and sugar free... cheese is what makes food taste good. =) I have been eating a lot of pancakes (gluten free of course) and popcorn. Today, popcorn didn't even sound good and I have been having popcorn almost every day for a month or two.

Weigh in: Yesterday I weighed in. Not good. I gained a pound. However, I weighed myself today and I have lost 2lbs.. Should be a great weigh in next week!

MOre importantly-I am LOVING my Wednesday night Bible study. Bible studies bring so much worship and accountability to learning more about our God! One of my personal goals is to watch less tv and fill or time with more wholesome activities. We don't watch much so this should be pretty easy. I am having my son stay by me in the morning during the 10+ minutes I would let him watch pbs (while I got ready for the day). So, tv/movie time is a RARE treat here at the Brown house. Also, I have cut out every show I watch regularly except for Biggest Loser. Sometimes the tv is on at night when the kids are in bed but I am trying not to rely on it for entertainment.

Dairy Free!

So, I am on my 2nd say of dairy free. I do occasionally have dairy if it is in something (mashed potatoes, pancakes, etc) but not by itself. I am a HUGE dairy eater so this is hard for me, but I am committed.

Sugar Free update: I am still sugar free. I do struggle occasionally when I want to eat a new item that I have baked or bought for the family. In general, the family has cut way back on sugar also, but those occasional treats.. Sometimes I am soooo tempted!

I am party of a wonderful Beth Moore Bible study at church. I LOVE IT! It is challenging me so much. I am currently trying to lesson the negative influences in my life... I am cutting out a majority of TV shoes (I do not watch many). One of the challenges I received from the Bible study was cleaning out all the negativity or ungodly influences on my life and see how your thought processes change and your mind unclutters. Becoming less-so full of God that there is no room for me. I have so much work to do!

lets try this again!

Weekly Goals:

1. NO dairy for the next 3 weeks! I am prepared with dairy alternatives (coconut milk and oil). I changed my monthly meal plan for non-dairy meals. I LOVE LOVE cheese so this is going to be hard for me!
2. Lose weight this week (instead of gain).
3. Supplement my work outs. (I am maxing out the Biggest loser workout. I am on the highest level of work out. I am having trouble with the push-ups and T-raises so, I need to concentrate on upper body workouts. I rarely get sore-even with my 62 minute workout yesterday! This is a huge change from when I started working out.) Add 1-3 workouts for a total of 5-7 workouts!
4. Drink protein drinks immediately following working out.
5. Dink water/fluids.
6. Concentrate on portions/ calories.
7. Blog 4x (minimum) a week.

Monthly goal-Lose 10 lbs minimum. (I still have 3olbs until I meet my goal).
I am remaining sugar free. Mentally, I know that I don't eat sugar and most of the time it is not an issue. I have to constantly monitor what I am eating-sugar and high fructose corn syrup is in EVERYTHING! On rare occasions I have cravings for sugar but for the most part I do not miss it (well, maybe chocolate). I don't even miss pop-NEVER thought I would say that. I drink tea continuously throughout the day. I make iced teas and drink 3-4 quarts of tea. I use TONS of truvia and stevia.

2 steps back 3 big steps forward.

My grandpa is rejoicing in heaven! Praise God. =) The past 2-3 weeks have been difficult on my diet resolutions. I have kept my NO SUGAR resolution but was unable to work out as much as I would have liked. I did complete the biggest loser workouts. I also was not always able to prepare my own food.


2 steps back:

1 for the first time I gained 1lb!! Honestly, I thought it might have been worse.
2. I wanted to go non dairy in March but forgot and ate cheese after 36ish hours. I was also away from home and unable to prepare with non-dairy substitutes. So, I will start again next week.

3 steps forward:
1. I plan to lose 10lbs in March.
2. I am going to work out as much as possible.
3. I am going to go non-dairy for as much of March as I can.

Dairy free March!

I am going dairy free for March in hopes that I will loose 10-15 lbs this month! 10-15lbs is my March goal.

ready to blog!!!!!

I got my new netbook! I am so excited... when life settles down a little bit I will be able to blog more. =) I also have noticed the more sugar free I am the more sensitive I am to sweeteners. I know I like stevia and truvia but I no longer like purevia. On rare occasion when I use agave I LOVE it.... so yummy. Honey is intensely sweet. From time to time I use ketchup or have marinara sauce (with sugar in it) and it is incredibly sweet. I wonder what sugar will taste like? I guess I have 10 more months before I find out! =)

a pound at a time

I lost one more pound this week! Yay! =) This week has been a struggle because of my Grandpa being in the hospital. Unpredictable schedules have made it difficult to work out as much and eat the best foods. BUT, I managed to work out nearly every day and still eat as healthy as possible. I am still SUGAR FREE!!! My hubby ordered me a new netbook so I should be able to blog more... my laptop is so old it takes forever to boot up! I can't wait to add more recipes and photos.

one more pound!

I weighed in on Tuesday and I have lost one more pound. I did not weigh in on Valentine's day but I think I would have been one pound a way from my Valentine's day goal. I did buy 2 new pairs of jeans super cheap at Kohl's (on clearance +20% 0ff!) yay. They were necessary-my jeans were falling off w/o unbuttoning them! One pair is 2 sizes smaller and one pair is 3 sizes smaller. The smallest pair is my goal jeans.

I am getting a new laptop or netbook! YAY! My computer is nearly dead and is old! I had it in grad school before I was married. I will be able to blog more and add more recipes when I get my new computer. =)

Also-I am thinking of giving up dairy for the month of March. I am horrible at counting calories and seem to have more success with eliminating food. I eat dairy all the time so I am thinking it will help. Total to date I have lost nearly 20lbs since 1/1/2010! To bump of my workouts I may start another bigger loser game and have them going simultaneously-one challenging and one less intense so I can work out 6 days a week.

I am doing my devotions daily and learning new stuff every day! I love digging in the Word! I need to work on extending my prayer time.

still sugar free

I am still eating sugar free. We had a family emergency this weekend and I haven't done as well on my goals from last week as I had hoped. My goals this week are going to be less intense because my time will be consumed with family.

Weekly goals:
1. Drink water
2. Work out 3-5 times this week
3. Concentrate on food portions./calorie count

Yogurt

One of the things I have been missing is yogurt. I was at a playdate when one of my friends mentioned she made yogurt using a crockpot. So, I researched it and decided to make my own-sugar free, of course. I used SKIM milk so it is even low fat!! Here is the recipe:

Yogurt

8 c pasturized (or raw) milk DO NOT USE ULTRA PASTURIZED-Organic valley is a good brand.
1 cup active culture plain yogurt
Crockpot
towel

1. Turn crock pot on low and add milk. Cover and cook on low for 2 1/2-3 hrs. (I cooked it for 3 hrs)
2. Unplug crock pot and wrap in large thick beach towel for insulation. Let set for 3-4 hrs. Milk is done cooking when it a THIN film remains on spoon when dipped in milk-rather than just sliding off. (I let it set for the 4hrs).
3. In small bowl whisk 1-2 cups of milk from crock pot and 8ounces of plain yogurt. Add mixture to crock pot.
4. Keeping crock pot unplugged re wrap in towel and let set 8hrs.

For thicker yogurt you can strain the yogurt using coffee filters and strainer. Run the remaining yogurt through blender to make creamier. This is more like Greek yogurt.

I did not strain mine and it was a little thinner than store bought but I loved the way it tasted. I added stevia fruit and nuts. SOOO GOOD! =)

defeating the plateau

I just completed my weekly weigh-in and I am happy to report that I have lost 3 more pounds. I am 2 lbs from my Valentine's Day goal. =) WHOOOO HOOOO. I am going to kick it into over-drive and lose 2 lbs by Saturday to reach my Valentine's day goal. Saturday, my husband and I are going out to celebrate Valentine's Day sooooooo I want to be able to get my new outfit then! Needless to say I am overjoyed.

I am going to add a goal to my weekly goals. I am going to substitue one meal and maybe a snack with a protein shake. I think this may help with the overall weight loss. The protein shake I use is all natural sugar free (absolutely no sweetner) and gluten free-I have to add stevia to make it bearable.

weekly goals and pics!

How I looked about a week ago.

How I looked when I started.
















GOALS for next week:

1. Drink water (64 oz)
2. Monitor calorie intake (I am horrible at counting calories so this is going to be my focus this week)
3. Work out 5-7 days (I worked out 6 days last week)
4. Minimum of 11,000 steps at least 5 days this week.
5. Eat more fruit and veggies and less carbs and dairy.
6. Locate and start reading Jillian Micheal's book on metabolism.
7. Finish my "homework" for my Bible Study on Wednesday.

This past week has been difficult for portion control. I have been so hungry and want to eat all the time. I need to eat more fruit, veggies, and protein and concentrate on portion control. I have remained sugar free and worked out.

Good new and not so good news

First the Good news:
1. I have lost 15 pounds in 33 days-that is almost a 1/2 pound every day!
2. I have not eaten fruit for an entire month! YAY (Well, with the exception of a sip of grape juice during communion at church.)
3. I have worked out MORE this past week than any week so far and the workouts are getting easier.
4. I am STILL sugar free. I am feeling better, have more energy, and feel more motivated.

Now for the not so good news:
1. I weighed in today and I did not loose weight or gain weight. I was the exact same. I did weigh in after supper and I have been weight in before supper-so that may have added a little. I have worked out harder this week but did not count calories as often as I should. I feel thinner and I know I am loosing inches. I have had to pull my belt in 2 complete notches in one month just to keep my jeans up! I can now wear my engagement ring (which I was unable to put on my oversized finger)and I can wear shoes that were too tight before. I know I am loosing weight EVERY where. So, I am going to work HARDER, count more (or less) calories, and go the extra mile (literally).

GOALS!!!

Sooooo, I accomplished most of my goals.
I drank water. I worked out 6 days. I took Saturday off and it felt wonderful! I can count on one hand the days I haven't had a significant workout since Jan 1st. When I worked out today, I was very sore. I think I should have worked out minimally on Saturday just to get my muscles moving. I drank my protein shakes most of the days. I use the protein shakes to get me through to supper and some days I don't feel like I need them.=) Portion control continues to be my weak spot. I love to eat! Some people eat to live and I live to eat. BUT I am working on it. I achieved 10,000+ steps 5 days. My pedometer does not always pick up walking/running in place, lunges, etc, so even on days I work out I still need more steps. Consequently, I have been running in the evenings. Make 2 new recipes- I made egg casserole using gluten free bread and chicken noodle soup using quinoa noodles! I loved the quinoa noodles. Rice noodles sometimes get tacky but the quinoa noodles remained firm.
Also, I went to Bible study this week! I am enjoying the fellowship and I soooo need to grow in God. I need to become less.... and let God become more.

NOW for this week's goals!
1. 64 ounces of water
2. Work out at least 5 days
3. 11,000 steps at least 5 days
4. Stick to Biggest Loser's calories for me and measure food!
5. Pack away some of my clothes that are too big (Yes, I have clothes that are very loose)
6. Post monthly progress pictures next Sunday.

The scale doesn't lie!

I weighed in again today- and I have lost 3 more pounds. This was a hard week so I was VERY excited to see that I had lost 3 pounds. I have lost 15 pounds since January 1st! Talk about motivation to continute. I have 6 pounds to lose before Valentine's day and 30 pounds to lose before I am at my goal 1st weight. Who knows-I may just continute losing.

I am making my 10,000 steps every day. I have been running at the end of the day to make up for any steps I am missing. I am surprised at my endurance. I can only imagine how much energy I will have when I am 30 pounds lighter.

I have been sugar free and fruit free for almost a month. Even though I use stevia/xylitol some veggies seem VERY sweet. For example, butternut squash and sweet potatoes seem much sweeter when I eat them. I am trying to cut out all sugar but occasionally I do use ORGANIC ketchup or spaghetti sauce with sugar cane in them. These products are exceptionally sweet. Next year, I hope to make my own sauces and ketchup to totally eliminate unnecesary sugar. It is amazing what has sugar in it.

Weekly goals!

I have to admit last week was the hardest week so far! But, it is getting better. I am constantly sore. I am really pushing the workouts. I think the Wii Fit Biggest Loser game finds my weakest muscles and works those muscles the hardest. The wfbl game has me working out every other day. On my days off, I do a less strenuous exercise. I have way more endurance and my clothes are VERY loose.
I am still sugar free. Today I wanted something sweet. No just sweet-sugar sweet. It was an intense craving but I got through it. I have been baking for my family and even if it has a little bit of sugar in it, I do not eat it. This is hard for me because I LOVED licking the batter spoon.
The weight is not falling off like it did at first. Now, I am working hard for every pound. Every pound is a huge victory and I am so excited when the scale says I am lighter.
I found a wonderful way to fight off a sweet craving. Last night I had popcorn made in coconut oil and I sprinkled xylitol (stevia or truvia would work too) and allspice on it! It was so good! Even my son loved it. =)
I did meet most of my goals for last week. I forgot my protein shake once but I made up for it in workouts. haha. I worked out EVERY day in some form! =)
Goals for this week:
1. Water, water, water-at least 48 ounces
2. Work out at least 5 days
3. Protein shake- (really helps with afternoon snacking)
4. Concentrate on portion control and calorie counting (I need to stick to my Biggest Loser calorie recommendations)
5. 10,000 steps on my pedometer every day (this means I will have to remember to wear my pedometer).
6. Make at least 2 new recipes-gluten and sugar free.

Getting over this hill!

Today is a hard day! =) This week is a hard week! The first few weeks I lost weight easy and fast and the weight is no longer falling off. Working out and eating sugar free are relatively easy, but the rest of my goals seem harder to reach this week. I am having trouble remembering to drink water and measuring portions. I even forgot to drink a protein shake one day (could be because it tastes like ground up sticks). So, I am going to recommit to my goals. =) I am going to drink my water, drink my stick shake, sweat during my work out, measure my portions and ultimately lose weight.

Oh, and if I lose 10lbs by Valentine's day my husband is going to buy me a new outfit. I will probably need a new clothes-my pants are starting to fall off. =)

Week 2 weigh in!

I weighed in again today on my Biggest Loser Wii Fit and the results are:
I lost 2 more pounds!! Yay! I am so excited. Two pounds is the lowest number I have had since starting my sugar free diet but it is more realistic. I am just excited to be losing weight. AND-I have lost 12 pounds since January 1st. I have 2 more weeks until I can add fruit back into my diet. I love fruit so that will be a happy day. Oh, and people are starting to notice and my clothes are getting lose. Guess I will need to go shopping soon. Aww bummer! =)

weekly goals

I completed last week's goals! I drank water, exercised EVERY day, made Gluten free bread, ate reasonable portions and remained sugar free!! My workouts were intense and left me sore. I think I will take 1 day off next week. I am getting better at controlling my portions. It helps to measure my food so I know exact portion size. So, here are my goals for next week:

1. Drink at least 48oz of water.
2. Drink 1 protein shake a day. (I do not think I am getting enough protein in my diet as I don't eat a lot of meat, nuts, etc)
3. Work out a minimum of 5 days.
4. Continue to monitor portion control.
5. Make at least one new gluten free healthy recipe.

My food addiction

I think I am addicted to food. Or at least, I have been in the past. By leaving out sugar and several other food items, I am finding freedom my addiction. I think most of the cravings are gone and I am more intune to hunger. I think I ate out of stress and bordum. I am leaving that behind and eating when I am hungry. I eat 3 meals and 1-2 snacks.
I am facing true tests to my new way of eating. I was gone from home for over 24 hours and did not have access to my kichen, my food, and my way of eating. It was a true test to my sugar free goals and I held strong. My new eating habbits are becoming a way of life.

More reasons to be sugar free....

I ran across another interesting website regarding sugar . Click on the word sugar to go to the website. The information about orange juice was especially interesting to me. I highly recommend stevia as a natural sweetener. I use it in my tea and I can also make chocolate milkshake with it.

Chocolate Milkshake
1/2 cup milk
1 tsp cocoa
1-3 packets of truvia or stevia to taste
3/4 cup ice

Blend in blender or magic bullet.
My son loves these milkshakes.

The other day I made gluten free bread from Bob's Red Mill gluten free flour and using their recipe I modified the recipe a little bit. I was surprised when the dough looked more like quick bread batter than bread dough. The finished product was very good. I miss bread when eating gluten free!

Weigh-in!!!!

Tonight was the big weigh in for me on the Biggest Loser Wii Fit game. I set the goal for weight loss at 39lbs in 12 weeks (it was the highest it would let me set). I weighed in right AFTER supper so, I was a little worried about what the scale would say. Well, I lost SIX pounds in 1 week! Since January 1st, I have lost 9 pounds!! =) I celebrated by eating a chocolate bar. I am joking-that would have been the old me. I am sticking to my sugar free diet. I had a sugar free cinnamon vanilla chai smoothie and some popcorn! YUM! =) Now, I am going to work hard so I don't have to worry about the dreaded week 2. If you watch the biggest loser show you know what I mean!

Final workout!

Tomorrow is my big weigh in on the Biggest Loser wii game! I am very excited and little nervous. Portion control/calorie counting is my biggest obstacle. I have been able to exercise 1-2 times per day!! I know that being sugar free, portion control, and working out daily will result in weight loss. I can't wait to see the lbs melt off! I will post weight loss tomorrow.

Goals for next week........

I have made it a week and 2 days without sugar!! Whoohooo! The sugar cravings are getting less frequent and my energy has increased. I have avoided the foods that my body is sensitive to so that might also explain the increased energy. I am working out every day and my muscles are sore! The Wii Fit Biggest Loser game is relentless, but I did set high goals and I plan to meet them. My first weigh in is Tuesday, January 12th, and I cannot wait to post the results.

Here are my goals for the coming week:
1. DRINK more water 48oz or more.
2. Portion control-be attentive to EVERYTHING I eat. (My biggest struggle)
3. Try making gluten free bread. (wheat gluten is one of the foods I am sensitive to)
4. Exercise every day.

Portion Control!

Today, I tried to be mindful of my caloric intake. I want to learn the size of "normal" portions. This is challenging for me-maybe more challenging than giving up sugar. Speaking of sugar, I am still sugar and fruit free! I also worked out today!!! I am sore from the workouts but I still have more energy. And for the super good news- drum roll please- I have lost 5lbs in 1 week!

I need to blog!!!

Day 6 and still no sugar. I even made cookies and did not eat any of them. Cookie dough is my all time favorite, so it was not easy. I have been "indulging" on sugar free chai smoothies. I received a magic bullet blender for Christmas and am putting it to good use!

Chai smoothie
1/2 cup organic skim milk
1/2 cup chai
1/2 cup ice
stevia/truvia to taste
1/4 teaspoon vanilla
Blend and enjoy at only 45 calories.

I have not consumed sugar, honey, aguave nectar, fruit (except the one time I forgot and had a few bites) and I have not experienced a tremendous weight loss. It is very gradual-just a few pounds. I am also working out using my Biggest Looser game on the Wii Fit. I just started a game today and am on a 12 week course to lose weight. I hope to loose 30+ lbs in 12 weeks. According to the Biggest Loser game, I should consume 1560 calories a day and work out every other day. Shouldn't be to hard considering I am not eating sugar and I have quite a list of foods I avoid because I am sensitive to them. BTW-The workouts are pretty intense-they make me sweat and leave me sore. I am slightly addicted.

I am very thankful for this blog. It is making me accountable. So many times I have good intentions and do not follow through because I do not see immediate results. Well, I am committed this time..... now, only 359 more days to go!!!

I have energy!!!

Yesterday, I started my Biggest Lose Wii Fit game! I was a little sore this morning, but I felt great. This afternoon while the kids napped, I snuck in another workout. When the kids got up, I was so full of energy. Usually, I crash in the afternoon and am running to cram some food (usually sugar or some kind of carb) into my system to energize me. On my 5th day no sugar- I am energetic! I guess sugar isn't as energizing as I thought.

On a side note, I have been reading and researching the benefits of ORGANIC coconut oil I have been cooking with coconut oil for several months. I even add it to my tea or hot cocoa. =) It tastes so yummy. Today, while visiting my very holistic chiropractor, he noticed I had a cough. He tested me using kinesiology and found that coconut oil pills would help my cough/cold. I am amazed at all the natural remedies. God must of thought of everything when He created the world! =)

Sugar's effect on your health!

I am aware sugar is not good for you. I am trying to strip sugar from my diet for a variety of reasons. I did not realize how toxic sugar is for our bodies. I am even more determined to finish this year without refined sugars!!! Here is part of an article I read today:





Sugar's effect on your health
The average American consumes an astounding 2-3 pounds of sugar each week, which is not surprising considering that highly refined sugars in the forms of sucrose (table sugar), dextrose (corn sugar), and high-fructose corn syrup are being processed into so many foods such as bread, breakfast cereal, mayonnaise, peanut butter, ketchup, spaghetti sauce, and a plethora of microwave meals.
In the last 20 years, we have increased sugar consumption in the U.S. 26 pounds to 135 lbs. of sugar per person per year! Prior to the turn of this century (1887-1890), the average consumption was only 5 lbs. per person per year! Cardiovascular disease and cancer was virtually unknown in the early 1900's.


Sugar can suppress the immune system.
Sugar can upset the body's mineral balance.
Sugar can contribute to hyperactivity, anxiety, depression, concentration difficulties, and crankiness in children.
Sugar can produce a significant rise in triglycerides.
Sugar can cause drowsiness and decreased activity in children.
Sugar can reduce helpful high density cholesterol (HDLs).
Sugar can promote an elevation of harmful cholesterol (LDLs).
Sugar can cause hypoglycemia.
Sugar contributes to a weakened defense against bacterial infection.
Sugar can cause kidney damage.
Sugar can increase the risk of coronary heart disease.
Sugar may lead to chromium deficiency.
Sugar can cause copper deficiency.
Sugar interferes with absorption of calcium and magnesium.
Sugar can increase fasting levels of blood glucose.
Sugar can promote tooth decay.
Sugar can produce an acidic stomach.
Sugar can raise adrenaline levels in children.
Sugar can lead to periodontal disease.
Sugar can speed the aging process, causing wrinkles and grey hair.
Sugar can increase total cholesterol.
Sugar can contribute to weight gain and obesity.
High intake of sugar increases the risk of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
Sugar can contribute to diabetes.
Sugar can contribute to osteoporosis.
Sugar can cause a decrease in insulin sensitivity.
Sugar leads to decreased glucose tolerance.
Sugar can cause cardiovascular disease.
Sugar can increase systolic blood pressure.
Sugar causes food allergies.
Sugar can cause free radical formation in the bloodstream.
Sugar can cause toxemia during pregnancy.
Sugar can contribute to eczema in children.
Sugar can overstress the pancreas, causing damage.
Sugar can cause atherosclerosis.
Sugar can compromise the lining of the capillaries.
Sugar can cause liver cells to divide, increasing the size of the liver.
Sugar can increase the amount of fat in the liver.
Sugar can increase kidney size and produce pathological changes in the kidney.
Sugar can cause depression.
Sugar can increase the body's fluid retention.
Sugar can cause hormonal imbalance.
Sugar can cause hypertension.
Sugar can cause headaches, including migraines.
Sugar can cause an increase in delta, alpha and theta brain waves, which can alter the mind's ability to think clearly.
Sugar can increase blood platelet adhesiveness which increases risk of blood clots and strokes.
Sugar can increase insulin responses in those consuming high-sugar diets compared to low sugar diets.
Sugar increases bacterial fermentation in the colon.


http://www.healingdaily.com/detoxification-diet/sugar.htm

Still resisting!

Day 3!! Whoo hooo! I am happy to report I have resisted sugar. =) I did eat some pomegranates without even thinking. Oops. It is hard for me to remember to cut fruit out of my diet! I am still planning on going a full 30 days with out fruit, so now I will wait until February 3rd to have fruit. I currently have a mild cold but it is getting better-thanks to vitamins and herbs. I have been taking elderberry syrup, vitamin d3, and herbal tea and they worked their magic. I did hop on the treadmill yesterday and managed to get in a workout. Tomorrow, I will workout again.

Day 1

It is New Year's Day and I have gone almost an entire 24 hours without sugar! =) A few months ago, I was having issues with stomach pain/nausea and I had my food sensitivities tested using kinesiology. I am sensitive to: wheat gluten, oats, almonds, peanuts, grapes, apples, mushrooms, splenda and coffee. In addition to sugar, I am also trying to eliminate those items from my diet. Oh, and I generally do not eat pork. I am not going to pretend it is easy to eliminate those items from my diet. I did attend a party today with several very yummy looking deserts and I did not consume! =) I held strong even in the presence of chocolate. I can do this! 364 more days to go.

Now, to my next goals! Spend time with God every day in 2010. I want to become less of who I am through God so that he can become more in my life. Hence the blog name, becoming less. =)
I also need to exercise 3-5 times a week. Sadly, I did not achieve a workout today but I am sure I will hop on the treadmill tomorrow! =)