I am continuing on with my posts about nutrition. So if you're curious read on...
It is unbelievable to me the amount of "bad stuff" that we put into our bodies. A lot of it is unintentional too. I had no idea how bad some of it is. My eyes have been opened for sure. Being vigilant in what you buy at the grocery store and order out is an understatement. You have to be on top of it!
In an effort to offset all the "bad stuff",
I have made some changes in what I put into my body.
It is unbelievable to me the amount of "bad stuff" that we put into our bodies. A lot of it is unintentional too. I had no idea how bad some of it is. My eyes have been opened for sure. Being vigilant in what you buy at the grocery store and order out is an understatement. You have to be on top of it!
In an effort to offset all the "bad stuff",
I have made some changes in what I put into my body.
*No more artificial sweeteners
No Equal in my morning coffee and no Splenda in anything. For those of y'all that know me, know I used to put like 5 or 6 Splenda packets in my tea! Then my stomach would cramp and I would wonder why...duh! Our bodies can't process non nutritive sweeteners because it's foreign chemical crap. Y'all may disagree but I'm staying away if I can help it. I have been using Stevia sparingly but am finding that I don't really need it. I am trying to train my taste buds to not want that sweet taste.
No Equal in my morning coffee and no Splenda in anything. For those of y'all that know me, know I used to put like 5 or 6 Splenda packets in my tea! Then my stomach would cramp and I would wonder why...duh! Our bodies can't process non nutritive sweeteners because it's foreign chemical crap. Y'all may disagree but I'm staying away if I can help it. I have been using Stevia sparingly but am finding that I don't really need it. I am trying to train my taste buds to not want that sweet taste.
*No more diet cokes
I was only drinking 1 or 2 a week but since I know how bad all those chemicals and artificial sweeteners are, no more.
I was only drinking 1 or 2 a week but since I know how bad all those chemicals and artificial sweeteners are, no more.
*Buy organic when possible
I am trying to buy milk, lettuce, spinach, apples, grapes, lemons and limes organic now. It really isn't necessary to buy everything organic. Just the things that the pesticides and added hormones affect. Meat needs to be next on the list. Yes it's more expensive but when you think about all that crap on the good stuff you're eating, it's totally worth it.
I am trying to buy milk, lettuce, spinach, apples, grapes, lemons and limes organic now. It really isn't necessary to buy everything organic. Just the things that the pesticides and added hormones affect. Meat needs to be next on the list. Yes it's more expensive but when you think about all that crap on the good stuff you're eating, it's totally worth it.
*Cut way down on the sugar intake
This one is an ongoing battle for me. I will allow myself some sugar once or twice a week if that for a cheat meal. I wish I could cut it out completely. You have to be so careful too. Sugar is hidden everywhere! I am trying not to eat anything unless it has 5 grams or less. There's just something so satisfying about some yummy chocolate chip cookies though. :P
This one is an ongoing battle for me. I will allow myself some sugar once or twice a week if that for a cheat meal. I wish I could cut it out completely. You have to be so careful too. Sugar is hidden everywhere! I am trying not to eat anything unless it has 5 grams or less. There's just something so satisfying about some yummy chocolate chip cookies though. :P
*Add more protein
I have added protein shakes which I have done on and off for years, but now I drink one daily usually after my workout. I think I need anywhere from 75-100 grams of protein daily and that may be erring on the low side. That is dang hard to do in a day! I try to sneak it in on snacks whether it be nuts, hard boiled eggs, edamame, chick peas, or string cheese. Obviously I eat it at each meal...eggs for breakfast if I'm not working out first thing, chicken or turkey deli meat for lunch, and grilled chicken, fish or lean red meat for dinner (an ongoing battle) if all goes as planned and let me tell you dinner is so hard most days.
I have added protein shakes which I have done on and off for years, but now I drink one daily usually after my workout. I think I need anywhere from 75-100 grams of protein daily and that may be erring on the low side. That is dang hard to do in a day! I try to sneak it in on snacks whether it be nuts, hard boiled eggs, edamame, chick peas, or string cheese. Obviously I eat it at each meal...eggs for breakfast if I'm not working out first thing, chicken or turkey deli meat for lunch, and grilled chicken, fish or lean red meat for dinner (an ongoing battle) if all goes as planned and let me tell you dinner is so hard most days.
*Cut most dairy out
I really haven't done this one on purpose. I guess I never really ate that much dairy to begin with. I'm not really opposed to dairy, but am trying to eat or drink even less just to see if it makes a difference. I use almond milk in my shakes which I like better anyway. I'm not a huge fan of yogurt because I got burned out on it a long time ago. I will eat light cheese every now and then. It's a good source of protein and a great snack!
I really haven't done this one on purpose. I guess I never really ate that much dairy to begin with. I'm not really opposed to dairy, but am trying to eat or drink even less just to see if it makes a difference. I use almond milk in my shakes which I like better anyway. I'm not a huge fan of yogurt because I got burned out on it a long time ago. I will eat light cheese every now and then. It's a good source of protein and a great snack!
*Add supplements
I have very recently discovered AdvoCare, a line of amazing supplements. I have tried out some of their products and love love love them so far! The AdvoCare line is so extensive that there really is something for everyone. There are several products from AdvoCare that have helped me, which I plan to share in a future post.
So there you have it. Some subtle changes and some big changes. I have honestly felt a lot better the past couple of weeks. The main thing is that I have had more energy which is what I struggle with. I have also gotten great workouts in, been able to keep up with the boys a little easier, and just feel better overall. So something I'm doing is working. :) As I mentioned above in addition to changing my diet a bit, I have had some help from AdvoCare supplements. I am super excited about the AdvoCare line! I can't wait to share my discoveries with y'all so stay tuned!
xoxoSarah Marie
No comments :
Post a Comment