There are very interesting things you can find out when you listen to your body. I know for me that having such a tough situation and not being able to be strictly paleo has shed some light on listening to my body. Some expected...some very unexpected.
As I've mentioned in previous posts, Paleo is a great diet for those of us who are gluten intolerant. (It has benefits for many more people and you should check out places like PaleoMom.com to see if you could benefit.) Please remember, there are a lot of great people out there that are much further along on their journey than I am.
I was reading an article earlier today about the "gray areas" in paleo. Some things can be considered somewhat paleo... Some people can disagree... Some people may have an ancestral heritage that favors being able to tolerate these gray area foods. The best tool of diagnosis though, is your own body.
Once you remove all of the processed goods it is much easier to identify issues you may have. Now...Being in our situation (still in a hotel) we are not able to just go out to the grocery store and buy regular meat and veggies. We're relying heavily on expensive gluten free frozen and microwaveable products. Let me tell you, over processed crap tastes bad whether it's "healthier" for you or not. It's basically what I like to call "The diet coke of evil..." (Anyone catch that reference? If so...you're cool.)
I've gone a month without coffee. And I didn't die! (Yes...surprise.) I have started drinking coffee again, but I'm considering just nixing it from my diet. Why? I don't like the idea of decaf. I've heard decaf is worse than the regular because of the chemicals they use to mostly decaffinate the coffee. I realize, I am still addicted. That's an interesting story for another post though.
Needless to say, I've cut out a lot. Most seeds, all conventional processed food, and sugar. Here's the wacky things my body has been up to.
One night was just one of those nights I couldn't avoid gluten. I have mostly been drinking water, but I just had a hankering (southern for craving) for some slightly sweet tea. I often order a half sweet tea...but I kept finding it was ridiculously too sweet. Well this night I noticeably started to get an incredibly awful headache. I didn't understand it. I was also repulsed by this tea. So I switched to water. I noticed my headache went away even though I was still eating gluten. I still felt bloated and over full...tired and icky. But...the head bursting headache subsided quickly. Am I having a reaction to sugar!? I am most certain that I have avoided conventional sugar that this sweet tea has been giving me these outrageous headaches.
This is even how I discovered my gluten intolerance. I took it out for a while, had a slip up, and ended up very ill the next morning. My point being that when you cut out all of the junk, it is quite easy to discover where your issues are. I had heard about this with my son's lactose intolerance. I never considered this as the missing link to discover what was causing my health issues.
In a similar fashion, I've noticed what my body is craving. If I'm craving beef or greens, I'm probably in need of some iron. I find myself craving good food. So I encourage anyone to try it out. Cut out the junk and extra stuff. If you add back in dairy and have an adverse side effect...you may need to cut it out. Today, as a matter of fact, I had one of my favorite Mocha Cappucino cold coffee drinks. I fell victim to the savy mom thought of a buy one get one free! I had originally thought dairy hadn't bothered me. However, because Mark is lactose intolerant, I often try my best to avoid it. I checked the label and it did not have any wheat (gluten) products. After I finished this drink I felt like I blew up! My stomach was so full and I felt bloated. I hadn't eaten much before this and it was about time to be hungry again and yet I felt like I just ate a five course meal.
One goal in Paleo is to avoid things that irritate and/or inflame the body, mostly "the gut." Now...just because it irritates you, doesn't mean you are allergic or intolerant. It's something to pay attention to. We're really searching for what is the optimal food for your body. So far I'm down to the basics. No gluten, no sugar, no dairy.
I often get those comments...I don't know what I'd do without cheese!!!! (Which I'll continue in a different post.) But, all in all, when you realize it's just not good for your body and it may be keeping you from your goals...you get over it.
So listen to your body! Sometimes you can be your best friend when it comes to this journey of discovery. I've even had compliments that I looked like I had lost weight, even though I haven't lost anything through this trying situation. When I am able to stay as clean as possible with my diet, I feel so much better and have plenty of energy to get through the day. Any slip ups and I'm ready for a nap and am usually not very happy with bathroom visits (yeah...sorry but it's true!).
Good luck!
Monday, July 21, 2014
My Rant about Feeding My Children My Way
It has been a tough journey this last month. I mentioned that in my last post. But, there's been something on my mind that has been bothering me that I just felt like I needed to get out. I've been highly criticized since my children were born for the way I feed my children. I'm not sure what people don't understand about me wanting to feed my children as healthy as possible.
For one... Why do people care? I don't go around criticizing you for feeding your kids chemical laden crap that shouldn't be considered food. So why are you so upset that I try to feed my kids actual food?
I think this post is just a culmination of nearly five years of a struggle.
Many people are okay with themselves being overweight. They accept it and become complacent. I don't know how they do it. I've been trying for nearly four years now to lose weight. It took me four years to find the key. But, I don't like being this way. I just want to be comfortable putting on a pair of shorts or a dress that goes above my knees. I want to have so much energy that I convince people I found a way to bottle my kids extra energy.
I've never seen anyone happy when they're eating unhealthy. Not a one. They're just complacent and think that's all they can do. Well I'm here to give you a dose of reality honey. You're WRONG!
I've even experienced people who are very skinny who are just down right unhealthy, mind and body. It's the food! If you put good food in, you get great things out of your body!
So... What are my goals for my kids healthy lives?
I have always given my children fruit and vegetables. They are required to try things. Madison being four, I've seen her tastes change over the years. I always offer my kids a fruit. That's pretty easy to get them to eat. Actually, Mark could eat a bundle of bananas in a day if I would let him. But, it is important to test their boundaries with food. Give them that piece of broccoli. Don't stop just because they don't like it once.
The commercial I just saw bothers me. We shouldn't be supplementing healthy food for processed drinks like Pediasure. How is this "What kids need."!? Sugary milk like drinks?
I have always made a commitment against MSG and high fructose corn syrup. Lately, I've stepped up my game though.
Candy is a treat and NEVER every day. I often try to find treats that are very yummy and feel like candy, but aren't. For instance, Madison loves blueberries.
I have always been anti-soda. It's just not good for their bodies. Have you read the ingredients? It's a bunch of chemical bologna.
I try to find fun ways to get my kids to drink real water. Fun cups and straws are always a hit. I never use flavored water things.
Eating is not an option. I have read many articles about picky eaters and having children eat. It's just not an option for us. I am not a short order cook. You eat what I fix. Now, that does not mean I won't consider things my family likes, or throwing in a meal that is still paleo but looks like their old favorites. One thing that really helps my kids are dips. For some reason, kids just love to be able to have ketchup, bbq sauce, ranch, etc. Of course, I'm learning how to make these paleo friendly.
I try to make sure that people understand why I do not want my children to eat certain things. I am to the point I really don't mind taking the extra steps to send my kids food (or bring my own when I'm at other people's houses). I don't mind getting up early to make my kids breakfast when they eventually go to school, plus sending healthy lunches. I am starting to lose the anxiety of telling the nice lady at the gas station or grocery store that they can't have suckers.
After finding what is write for me and my children, I have gained confidence. I can say, "No, sorry...We don't eat things like that."
In the end, I don't think this is just for me to vent. It's for all those other parents out there who are in that stage of letting everyone know that you and your kids are different. You made the family choice to take your health under control. While you may consider rare exceptions, health and good eating habits are a priority.
So be confident and good luck! And remember I'm always sending you love and peace for you and your journey. Remember, you're the momma! (Or you're the daddy!!!) Take control. You're doing what you think is best. <3
For one... Why do people care? I don't go around criticizing you for feeding your kids chemical laden crap that shouldn't be considered food. So why are you so upset that I try to feed my kids actual food?
I think this post is just a culmination of nearly five years of a struggle.
Many people are okay with themselves being overweight. They accept it and become complacent. I don't know how they do it. I've been trying for nearly four years now to lose weight. It took me four years to find the key. But, I don't like being this way. I just want to be comfortable putting on a pair of shorts or a dress that goes above my knees. I want to have so much energy that I convince people I found a way to bottle my kids extra energy.
I've never seen anyone happy when they're eating unhealthy. Not a one. They're just complacent and think that's all they can do. Well I'm here to give you a dose of reality honey. You're WRONG!
I've even experienced people who are very skinny who are just down right unhealthy, mind and body. It's the food! If you put good food in, you get great things out of your body!
So... What are my goals for my kids healthy lives?
I have always given my children fruit and vegetables. They are required to try things. Madison being four, I've seen her tastes change over the years. I always offer my kids a fruit. That's pretty easy to get them to eat. Actually, Mark could eat a bundle of bananas in a day if I would let him. But, it is important to test their boundaries with food. Give them that piece of broccoli. Don't stop just because they don't like it once.
The commercial I just saw bothers me. We shouldn't be supplementing healthy food for processed drinks like Pediasure. How is this "What kids need."!? Sugary milk like drinks?
I have always made a commitment against MSG and high fructose corn syrup. Lately, I've stepped up my game though.
Candy is a treat and NEVER every day. I often try to find treats that are very yummy and feel like candy, but aren't. For instance, Madison loves blueberries.
I have always been anti-soda. It's just not good for their bodies. Have you read the ingredients? It's a bunch of chemical bologna.
I try to find fun ways to get my kids to drink real water. Fun cups and straws are always a hit. I never use flavored water things.
Eating is not an option. I have read many articles about picky eaters and having children eat. It's just not an option for us. I am not a short order cook. You eat what I fix. Now, that does not mean I won't consider things my family likes, or throwing in a meal that is still paleo but looks like their old favorites. One thing that really helps my kids are dips. For some reason, kids just love to be able to have ketchup, bbq sauce, ranch, etc. Of course, I'm learning how to make these paleo friendly.
I try to make sure that people understand why I do not want my children to eat certain things. I am to the point I really don't mind taking the extra steps to send my kids food (or bring my own when I'm at other people's houses). I don't mind getting up early to make my kids breakfast when they eventually go to school, plus sending healthy lunches. I am starting to lose the anxiety of telling the nice lady at the gas station or grocery store that they can't have suckers.
After finding what is write for me and my children, I have gained confidence. I can say, "No, sorry...We don't eat things like that."
In the end, I don't think this is just for me to vent. It's for all those other parents out there who are in that stage of letting everyone know that you and your kids are different. You made the family choice to take your health under control. While you may consider rare exceptions, health and good eating habits are a priority.
So be confident and good luck! And remember I'm always sending you love and peace for you and your journey. Remember, you're the momma! (Or you're the daddy!!!) Take control. You're doing what you think is best. <3
Pantry Essentials
So my entire stock, including the cabinet doors were blown away! (literally) But, I know that thankfully you are not in that situation. When you start a new way of eating (or lifestyle) it is often recommended that you purge the house of poor quality foods, ingredients, etc.
Here are a few of my MUST HAVE'S! These are things I have already bought to replace even though I don't have my kitchen back yet.
1. Good Seasonings! Organic Italian Seasoning and Garlic paste. Pink Himalayan salt and whole pepper that can be freshly cracked! The best thing about paleo eating or cooking in general is experimenting with flavors and seasonings.
2. Good oils. What do I consider good oils? I buy Simple Truth organic olive oil that is beautiful and adds a great flavor to chicken even with just some good salt and pepper. Coconut oil which I use for many things, including a moisturizer or face mask!
3. Organic/ All Natural Meats. Sometimes it's not always possible to get organic meat, so I choose brands like Simple Truth that have made a commitment to keeping 101 chemicals out of their products. It can be a scary experience when first going paleo knowing that a good 25% or more of your bill can go to just meat. When you know you're spending $20 on four pounds of beef, it can be a little daunting. I am always amazed to come out on budget!
There are plenty more things that I need to buy. There are things such as arrowroot, almond flour, coconut flour, and things of this nature that I may need in the future. It's always easier to buy one at a time because they are quite expensive.
Transitioning to paleo can be a challenge if you're pantry is already full of non-paleo foods. If you transition and discover you are gulten intolerant like I did and within a week or two can't eat gluten without getting sick, this could be even more of a challenge. My advice is try to use up all those non-paleo items within the first one to two weeks. When you make this decision, do NOT buy anything non-paleo. For instance, use up all of your cheese, then don't buy anymore.
If you're on a budget like we are, make sure to pick and choose what you just HAVE to buy a higher quality, and where you can save.
Here are a few of my MUST HAVE'S! These are things I have already bought to replace even though I don't have my kitchen back yet.
1. Good Seasonings! Organic Italian Seasoning and Garlic paste. Pink Himalayan salt and whole pepper that can be freshly cracked! The best thing about paleo eating or cooking in general is experimenting with flavors and seasonings.
2. Good oils. What do I consider good oils? I buy Simple Truth organic olive oil that is beautiful and adds a great flavor to chicken even with just some good salt and pepper. Coconut oil which I use for many things, including a moisturizer or face mask!
3. Organic/ All Natural Meats. Sometimes it's not always possible to get organic meat, so I choose brands like Simple Truth that have made a commitment to keeping 101 chemicals out of their products. It can be a scary experience when first going paleo knowing that a good 25% or more of your bill can go to just meat. When you know you're spending $20 on four pounds of beef, it can be a little daunting. I am always amazed to come out on budget!
There are plenty more things that I need to buy. There are things such as arrowroot, almond flour, coconut flour, and things of this nature that I may need in the future. It's always easier to buy one at a time because they are quite expensive.
Transitioning to paleo can be a challenge if you're pantry is already full of non-paleo foods. If you transition and discover you are gulten intolerant like I did and within a week or two can't eat gluten without getting sick, this could be even more of a challenge. My advice is try to use up all those non-paleo items within the first one to two weeks. When you make this decision, do NOT buy anything non-paleo. For instance, use up all of your cheese, then don't buy anymore.
If you're on a budget like we are, make sure to pick and choose what you just HAVE to buy a higher quality, and where you can save.
Friday, July 4, 2014
Eating Paleo - How Much Does it Cost?
I have many a day encountered questions (mainly from family members) about the cost of eating healthy. Most people know I am a stay at home mom and that my husband is the only income that we have. I have always been honest that we do receive food stamps, but it is definitely not enough to last a family of five for a full month.
I have always been a big proponent for couponing and spending this money responsibly. I do not believe in spending this money on candy, soda, or energy drinks (even when I did still drink or eat these things, I refused to use my card for those items). While I do not work now, I have and believe that many people work very hard to contribute to these taxes that help provide this money to help out our family. We are thankful for every dollar.
That being said, and being honest about it with everyone, people often ask how in the world I afford "organic" or "paleo" or "gluten free" items. I've talked about this in one of my recent videos called, "Who Says You Can't Eat Healthy on a Budget!?" Here's the revelation that I had this afternoon while trying to buy paleo.
Paleo Eating Is Only As Expensive as YOU Make It!!!
Here's the issues. As some of you might know (I guess I just assume you guys know everything.) our house was destroyed by a tornado and we have been home hoping and couch surfing for a while. It was fine until we had to move into a hotel that had no fridge and no microwave. I had to throw away almost a weeks worth of food. (Yes, I cried.)
Thankfully, we've since moved (again...Good grief I never want to move again!) and this hotel has a fridge that is so cold it freezes everything, and a small microwave. I felt human again getting to go to the store and buy food! I am to the point I HATE fast food. I get nauscious and a headache just thinking about it. Our Kroger has plenty of gluten free options, including in the freezer section. But, this is where I found my point. Frozen, gluten free, convenience food is terribly expensive. Now, I see why people think eating healthy is expensive. One thing I have learned over the years is that you pay (out the nose) for convenience. Even the prices of block cheese to shredded cheese is amazing for the same amount of cheese.
So with limited resources but desperately needing to get back to paleo (more like running, screaming, and flailing into the wonderful arms of paleo) I bit the bullet and bought these foods. We had already bought things for breakfast and fruit that didn't need refrigerated. I spent way too much money. This was a bit ridiculous. If I were able to cook properly, and had my beautiful kitchen (I will hug my kitchen when I get it there.) then I would be buying very little "processed" food. In all honesty, even if it is gluten (and dairy free for Mark) but is frozen or pre-made, it is still processed food. I am by no means a hardcore paleo, but the purpose of seeking a paleo lifestyle is to get away from the pre-prepared foods.
Is it hard? You bet! I'm about to have to figure out how to feed three kiddos at school paleo (including one kiddo that is super picky and wasn't raised on healthy food). But, that will be for another post.
Paleo is really easy if you take the time (and time management skills) to cook. Cook fresh vegetables that are in season (more abundant, therefore cheaper). Pick and choose which meats you are more likely to need organic. We eat more chicken than anything so I often try to buy it organic. We have developed a taste for better quality ground beef, so I buy Simple Truth All Natural or Organic Grass Fed. Look for great sales! I know some people may not be able to handle it, but Kroger does some great clearance on meat from time to time, including organic meats. If you have a freezer, stock up! I'm hoping in the future to have our own garden and learn more about canning to preserve fresh vegetables.
Another great value that Paleo tries to instill in people is to make relationships with local growers. When you build these relationships, you are more easily (and cheaply) able to obtain great products fresh from the farm. Even my kiddos love going to the farmer's market and learning about how they grow their products. I can't wait to get home so I can get out the local market and purchase some real fresh local grass fed organic meat.
So to conclude this long conversation about food (we're all hungry now right?), I want to tell you guys that this hasn't been the easiest journey. The best things to do are plan ahead, budget, and to make relationships with local growers. Paleo does not have to be outrageous if you avoid the prepared foods as much as possible. Take the time, use your time management skills and stick to the real stuff.
Sending you guys lots of love!
There have been a lot of tornadoes lately, and I'm sending extra love, peace, and hopefully a little hope that it'll get better. We're with you and love you. Stay positive and dream big! This is a clean slate.
I have always been a big proponent for couponing and spending this money responsibly. I do not believe in spending this money on candy, soda, or energy drinks (even when I did still drink or eat these things, I refused to use my card for those items). While I do not work now, I have and believe that many people work very hard to contribute to these taxes that help provide this money to help out our family. We are thankful for every dollar.
That being said, and being honest about it with everyone, people often ask how in the world I afford "organic" or "paleo" or "gluten free" items. I've talked about this in one of my recent videos called, "Who Says You Can't Eat Healthy on a Budget!?" Here's the revelation that I had this afternoon while trying to buy paleo.
Paleo Eating Is Only As Expensive as YOU Make It!!!
Here's the issues. As some of you might know (I guess I just assume you guys know everything.) our house was destroyed by a tornado and we have been home hoping and couch surfing for a while. It was fine until we had to move into a hotel that had no fridge and no microwave. I had to throw away almost a weeks worth of food. (Yes, I cried.)
Thankfully, we've since moved (again...Good grief I never want to move again!) and this hotel has a fridge that is so cold it freezes everything, and a small microwave. I felt human again getting to go to the store and buy food! I am to the point I HATE fast food. I get nauscious and a headache just thinking about it. Our Kroger has plenty of gluten free options, including in the freezer section. But, this is where I found my point. Frozen, gluten free, convenience food is terribly expensive. Now, I see why people think eating healthy is expensive. One thing I have learned over the years is that you pay (out the nose) for convenience. Even the prices of block cheese to shredded cheese is amazing for the same amount of cheese.
So with limited resources but desperately needing to get back to paleo (more like running, screaming, and flailing into the wonderful arms of paleo) I bit the bullet and bought these foods. We had already bought things for breakfast and fruit that didn't need refrigerated. I spent way too much money. This was a bit ridiculous. If I were able to cook properly, and had my beautiful kitchen (I will hug my kitchen when I get it there.) then I would be buying very little "processed" food. In all honesty, even if it is gluten (and dairy free for Mark) but is frozen or pre-made, it is still processed food. I am by no means a hardcore paleo, but the purpose of seeking a paleo lifestyle is to get away from the pre-prepared foods.
Is it hard? You bet! I'm about to have to figure out how to feed three kiddos at school paleo (including one kiddo that is super picky and wasn't raised on healthy food). But, that will be for another post.
Paleo is really easy if you take the time (and time management skills) to cook. Cook fresh vegetables that are in season (more abundant, therefore cheaper). Pick and choose which meats you are more likely to need organic. We eat more chicken than anything so I often try to buy it organic. We have developed a taste for better quality ground beef, so I buy Simple Truth All Natural or Organic Grass Fed. Look for great sales! I know some people may not be able to handle it, but Kroger does some great clearance on meat from time to time, including organic meats. If you have a freezer, stock up! I'm hoping in the future to have our own garden and learn more about canning to preserve fresh vegetables.
Another great value that Paleo tries to instill in people is to make relationships with local growers. When you build these relationships, you are more easily (and cheaply) able to obtain great products fresh from the farm. Even my kiddos love going to the farmer's market and learning about how they grow their products. I can't wait to get home so I can get out the local market and purchase some real fresh local grass fed organic meat.
So to conclude this long conversation about food (we're all hungry now right?), I want to tell you guys that this hasn't been the easiest journey. The best things to do are plan ahead, budget, and to make relationships with local growers. Paleo does not have to be outrageous if you avoid the prepared foods as much as possible. Take the time, use your time management skills and stick to the real stuff.
Sending you guys lots of love!
There have been a lot of tornadoes lately, and I'm sending extra love, peace, and hopefully a little hope that it'll get better. We're with you and love you. Stay positive and dream big! This is a clean slate.
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