Wow, it's been nearly a month since I've posted. It's been pretty busy around here catching up with household projects and fun family events.
As far as diet, I've kicked it up a notch. I've realized that as much as I love delicious vegan foods like this:
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| Kale Cafe Veggie Burger |
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| Stir-Fry Veggies in Chile Sauce over Pasta, Billy's Tap Room, Ormond Beach |
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| Spicy Roasted Cauliflower |
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| Italian White Bean and Sausage Soup |
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| Apple Crisp |
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| Siam Tofu with Thai Chili Sauce leftovers, Thai Erawan, Ormond Beach |
I do much better if I eat like this:
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| Steamed Collard Greens and Roasted Potatoes |
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| Roasted Potatoes and Steamed Spinach |
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| Weekly Produce Delivery from Front Porch Pickings |
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| Steamed Kale and Chipotle-Kissed Red Bean and Sweet Potato Chili |
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| Baked Seasoned "Fries" |
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| Fresh Collard Greens ready for steaming |
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| Raw Cauliflower |
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| Baked Sweet Potato with Steamed Greens |
The difference between the two styles of eating: The second group of food has no added oil and is unprocessed. No bread. No pasta. No faux meats. Just plain food, as close to Mother Nature intended as possible.
This week I've been listening to lectures by Chef AJ and turning back to my McDougall books, experimenting with recipes and observing what happens with my body when I eat more "cleanly." What I've discovered, time and time again, is that when I eliminate the processed foods, breads and oils, I feel better. My food cravings subside. And I lose weight. I'm down 2 pounds since Monday. It may seem extreme to some, but if I'm every going to reach goal weight and achieve optimum health, I have to do what works for me, for my particular chemistry. It's not easy, and I'm not 100% compliant. While the bread and frozen "meat" products are relatively easy to eliminate, I'm not willing to give up my morning coffee with non-dairy creamer, or, frankly, my wine! I understand that these are issues for some people and maybe down the line I'll change my mind, but for now I think I can still enjoy an occasional happy hour and my one cup of java per day.
So, that's where I am right now. I'd love to hear thoughts, opinions from those of you who have tried this way of eating, I can use all of the inspiration I can get!
Michele~
