My Whole30 is over...or is it? When I think of going back to eating the food groups I've eliminated, I have a hard time justifying putting that stuff into my body again, my body that I'm working so hard to fix. God help me if I make things worse when they are 75% better than they were a year ago. I'm headed for my sister's this weekend, which means meals out, which means treats and things that I haven't had to eat in a month or more. I may take a bite to be social, but I'm okay with passing on the unhealthy stuff (finally!). Hey, if I can make through girls' night at a wine bar and a birthday party and milkshakes with the kids without having any "forbidden" foods, then I can do this too.
Plus, I'm really happy about my weight loss during this journey, even though that is not the reason I started this program. I wish it had been under different circumstances, like working hard at the gym and eating right to lose weight and make a transformation without being sick, but I'll take it. It's progress, and this is the smallest I've been since around my junior year in high school. 13 pounds gone in a month? Not too bad! 30 pounds in 9.5 months? Wow. Just wow. I never thought I could do it. :)
Stats on the day before I started my Whole30:
Height - 5'6"
Size - 10/large pants; 8/medium shirt
Weight - 160lbs.
BMI
- 25.8 (which is overweight according to the American Institute for
Cancer Research website; 18.5-24.9 is the "normal" range, so I need to
weigh no more than 154 to achieve this)
Stats today, the day after I finished my Whole30:
Height - 5'6"
Size - 8 pants; small-medium shirt
Weight - 147lbs.
BMI
- 23.7 (which is NORMAL!)
Thursday, September 26, 2013
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
Day30!
Omg, it's the last day of my Whole30! Wow, that month flew by faster than I thought it would. It's 9:15a.m. and I still haven't had anything to drink or eat, so I'm going to do that right now...
Breakfast - meds/supps with 10oz. water; two hard-boiled eggs with paprika; six strawberries
Lunch - can of tuna with mayo and mustard and dill relish on bed of lettuce and sliced tomato; a couple slices of ham; 8oz. water
20oz. water at the park
Dinner - hamburger with sliced tomato and lettuce; half cup of sweet potatoes; 8oz. water
--THE END--
Breakfast - meds/supps with 10oz. water; two hard-boiled eggs with paprika; six strawberries
Lunch - can of tuna with mayo and mustard and dill relish on bed of lettuce and sliced tomato; a couple slices of ham; 8oz. water
20oz. water at the park
Dinner - hamburger with sliced tomato and lettuce; half cup of sweet potatoes; 8oz. water
--THE END--
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
Day29
Another morning doc appointment, this time with the PCP to fill her in on everything that has been going on since May. That's a lot! She drew blood to test vitamin D level. I had my morning meds and supps with 10oz. water around 8:30 and then an apple in the car on the way over at 9:15.
Lunch at 12:45 - a couple slices of turkey lunchmeat; small salad of four garden cherry tomatoes, garden basil, sliced baby portobellas, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil.
2nd Lunch at 2:15 - three hard boiled eggs with paprika and 2 tsp. store-bought "real mayonnaise." I would have made my own mayo, but I accidentally boiled all the eggs I had left...whoops. I didn't use very much, though, just enough to make the yolks less crumbly; 10oz. unsweetened coconut milk with supps; 8oz. water
Snack at 4:15 - small bowl of red seedless grapes; bowl of cauliflower with curry powder; 8oz. water
Dinner at 7:00 - oven baked chicken breast; sauteed vegetable medley with zucchini, yellow squash, white onion, and tomato; 16oz. water
Well, tomorrow is my last day of documenting every little thing I eat. Happy about that! I'm also happy to say I don't think I'll be adding too much back in even when I can. I've decided to do the Paleo route, minus nuts, legumes, chocolate, spinach, and anything else that is high oxalate. So, I'll still be dairy free, soy free, grain free with no processing and only natural sugars (and limited amounts at that). I'm going to let wine slide back in on occasion. Coffee is out, but maybe a latte would suffice once in a while, and only if it's made with coconut milk.
Lunch at 12:45 - a couple slices of turkey lunchmeat; small salad of four garden cherry tomatoes, garden basil, sliced baby portobellas, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil.
2nd Lunch at 2:15 - three hard boiled eggs with paprika and 2 tsp. store-bought "real mayonnaise." I would have made my own mayo, but I accidentally boiled all the eggs I had left...whoops. I didn't use very much, though, just enough to make the yolks less crumbly; 10oz. unsweetened coconut milk with supps; 8oz. water
Snack at 4:15 - small bowl of red seedless grapes; bowl of cauliflower with curry powder; 8oz. water
Dinner at 7:00 - oven baked chicken breast; sauteed vegetable medley with zucchini, yellow squash, white onion, and tomato; 16oz. water
Well, tomorrow is my last day of documenting every little thing I eat. Happy about that! I'm also happy to say I don't think I'll be adding too much back in even when I can. I've decided to do the Paleo route, minus nuts, legumes, chocolate, spinach, and anything else that is high oxalate. So, I'll still be dairy free, soy free, grain free with no processing and only natural sugars (and limited amounts at that). I'm going to let wine slide back in on occasion. Coffee is out, but maybe a latte would suffice once in a while, and only if it's made with coconut milk.
Day28
Only woke up once again to pee!
9:00 - one harvest cookie from yesterday; meds and supps with 10oz. water; six strawberries; one cup green beans; 5oz. oven baked pork tenderloin; 8oz. water
1:30 - pumpkin spice smoothie (see recipe below); O's leftover harvest cookie; a few slices of turkey lunchmeat; 6oz. water
6:30 - three slices turkey while making dinner; supps with 8oz. water; salmon and sweet potato cakes; boiled broccoli florets; 8oz. water
9:00 - one harvest cookie from yesterday; meds and supps with 10oz. water; six strawberries; one cup green beans; 5oz. oven baked pork tenderloin; 8oz. water
1:30 - pumpkin spice smoothie (see recipe below); O's leftover harvest cookie; a few slices of turkey lunchmeat; 6oz. water
4:00 - 8oz. water
6:30 - three slices turkey while making dinner; supps with 8oz. water; salmon and sweet potato cakes; boiled broccoli florets; 8oz. water
Monday, September 23, 2013
Day27
Woke up to Maisie meowing at 6:45 after only getting up one time to pee last night - that God that is getting better! Needed to get up anyway to prepare for my presentation today (anthology reading emcee). Meds and supps with 10oz. water at 7:00.
Breakfast at 7:15 - two eggs plus one egg white omelet with three slices of ham; eight strawberries; one "harvest cookie" (see recipe below); 8oz. water; 10oz. mint tea.
Harvest Cookies
- 2 bananas, mashed
- 3/4 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/3 cup coconut flour
- 4 soft Medjool dates
- 2 tsp. cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp. ginger
- 1 tsp. baking soda
- 2 tsp. apple cider vinegar
- 1/3 cup unsweetened coconut
- 1/2 cup raisins
(add or sub in diced apple next time!)
1. Preheat oven 350 degrees. Line cookie sheet with parchment paper or foil. Grease with coconut oil.
2. Combine mashed banana, pumpkin, and dates in food processor and blend until smooth.
3. In separate bowl, combine coconut flour, cinnamon, ginger, baking soda, and vinegar.
4. Add wet ingredients and mix until a thick batter is formed.
5. Fold in coconut and raisins.
6. Scoop heaping tablespoons of batter onto cookie sheet and flatten with hand (these cookies do not spread on their own).
7. Bake 20 minutes. Let cool on cookie sheet for 15 minutes before transferring to a rack or container.
On the way to my event today, I ate one Granny Smith apple. Then I drank 16oz. water at the reading.
Lunch at 1:45 at Panera - French onion soup (no cheese, no croutons, no bread); chicken cobb salad (romaine, avocado, egg, bacon, tomato...no dressing); one gala apple; 10oz. water
Snack at 4:15 - one small harvest cookie from recipe above
Dinner at 6:30 - grilled steak with sauteed mushrooms and onions in ghee, oven roasted butternut squash with coconut oil, sauteed asparagus with olive oil and garlic; 8oz. water
Breakfast at 7:15 - two eggs plus one egg white omelet with three slices of ham; eight strawberries; one "harvest cookie" (see recipe below); 8oz. water; 10oz. mint tea.
Harvest Cookies
- 2 bananas, mashed
- 3/4 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/3 cup coconut flour
- 4 soft Medjool dates
- 2 tsp. cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp. ginger
- 1 tsp. baking soda
- 2 tsp. apple cider vinegar
- 1/3 cup unsweetened coconut
- 1/2 cup raisins
(add or sub in diced apple next time!)
1. Preheat oven 350 degrees. Line cookie sheet with parchment paper or foil. Grease with coconut oil.
2. Combine mashed banana, pumpkin, and dates in food processor and blend until smooth.
3. In separate bowl, combine coconut flour, cinnamon, ginger, baking soda, and vinegar.
4. Add wet ingredients and mix until a thick batter is formed.
5. Fold in coconut and raisins.
6. Scoop heaping tablespoons of batter onto cookie sheet and flatten with hand (these cookies do not spread on their own).
7. Bake 20 minutes. Let cool on cookie sheet for 15 minutes before transferring to a rack or container.
On the way to my event today, I ate one Granny Smith apple. Then I drank 16oz. water at the reading.
Lunch at 1:45 at Panera - French onion soup (no cheese, no croutons, no bread); chicken cobb salad (romaine, avocado, egg, bacon, tomato...no dressing); one gala apple; 10oz. water
Snack at 4:15 - one small harvest cookie from recipe above
Dinner at 6:30 - grilled steak with sauteed mushrooms and onions in ghee, oven roasted butternut squash with coconut oil, sauteed asparagus with olive oil and garlic; 8oz. water
Sunday, September 22, 2013
Day26
Getting closer! Five more days until my Whole30 is officially completed. :)
Breakfast at 9:15 - last of the leftover oven baked chicken with shredded and sauteed Brussels sprouts; small bowl of strawberries; 8oz. water
Birthday party 10-12 -- the cupcakes looked amazing! Wish I could have had one, but I'm glad I didn't. :)
Lunch at 1:30 - tuna with homemade mayo, mustard, and capers atop a bed of lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and sunflower seeds with balsamic vinegar and olive oil; 16oz. water
Ate a date just to try it around 6:00...by 6:45 I was having the worst ulcer/gastritis/I don't even know anymore pains, like I do when I eat raw pineapple. No dinner for me. Mike put the kids to bed. :(
9:00 - managed to eat an apple and felt better by about 10:00.
Breakfast at 9:15 - last of the leftover oven baked chicken with shredded and sauteed Brussels sprouts; small bowl of strawberries; 8oz. water
Birthday party 10-12 -- the cupcakes looked amazing! Wish I could have had one, but I'm glad I didn't. :)
Lunch at 1:30 - tuna with homemade mayo, mustard, and capers atop a bed of lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and sunflower seeds with balsamic vinegar and olive oil; 16oz. water
Ate a date just to try it around 6:00...by 6:45 I was having the worst ulcer/gastritis/I don't even know anymore pains, like I do when I eat raw pineapple. No dinner for me. Mike put the kids to bed. :(
9:00 - managed to eat an apple and felt better by about 10:00.
Friday, September 20, 2013
Day25
Fun day with the kids planned (open gym, storytime, library, playground) then Moms' Night Out tonight at Parallel Wine Bistro - boy, that's going to be a test for me! No wine, no cheese, no chocolate, no bread, etc. Hopefully they have a good meat and veggie platter.
Breakfast and meds/supps at 9:30 - leftover oven baked chicken with shredded Brussels sprouts sauteed in olive oil; 16oz. water
10oz. water at the playground
Lunch at 2:30 - boiled baby carrots and cauliflower; 8oz. water
Snack at 4:00 - two small Granny Smith apples with cinnamon; 8oz. water
Dinner #1 at 6:30 - plain beef shawarma with zucchini, squash, tomato, red pepper, and mushroom kabob; cucumber, onion, tomato, and romaine salad; two small bites of hummus; 8oz. water
Dinner #2 at 8:30 - salmon filet with mixed garden vegetables (string beans, red pepper, green pepper, cauliflower, zucchini, squash); three slices of apple; about seven green grapes; several refills of water, probably a total of 24oz.
Going to MNO was TOUGH, especially when they brought out the complimentary champagne and chocolate mousse cake. Ugh! But I did it. I didn't have a single sip or bite of anything that I wasn't supposed to. Go me!
Breakfast and meds/supps at 9:30 - leftover oven baked chicken with shredded Brussels sprouts sauteed in olive oil; 16oz. water
10oz. water at the playground
Lunch at 2:30 - boiled baby carrots and cauliflower; 8oz. water
Snack at 4:00 - two small Granny Smith apples with cinnamon; 8oz. water
Dinner #1 at 6:30 - plain beef shawarma with zucchini, squash, tomato, red pepper, and mushroom kabob; cucumber, onion, tomato, and romaine salad; two small bites of hummus; 8oz. water
Dinner #2 at 8:30 - salmon filet with mixed garden vegetables (string beans, red pepper, green pepper, cauliflower, zucchini, squash); three slices of apple; about seven green grapes; several refills of water, probably a total of 24oz.
Going to MNO was TOUGH, especially when they brought out the complimentary champagne and chocolate mousse cake. Ugh! But I did it. I didn't have a single sip or bite of anything that I wasn't supposed to. Go me!
Thursday, September 19, 2013
Day24
Wow, I totally didn't eat a thing until lunchtime, and it was a late one at that. Had to bring Olivia to school, Collin to a friend's house, go do another bone density scan, pick Collin up, pick Olivia up, make lunch for the kids, and THEN make my lunch. I did drink 16oz. and have my meds/supps in the morning...
Lunch at 2:00 - shredded and sauteed Brussels sprouts in olive oil; oven baked rosemary chicken breast, leg, and thigh meat; Granny Smith apple
I have a confession to make. I cheated just a *little* when making C&O smoothies (strawberries, blueberries, milk, and vanilla ice cream) after their lunch when I was making my lunch. I was salivating and really craving that creaminess. I did take a small sip...okay, two small sips, but that's it. If it weren't for Collin's sore throat from the endoscopy yesterday, we wouldn't even have ice cream in the house. I bet if I had breakfast this morning, I could have avoided the temptation. Anyway, I know what food group I'll be adding back in when the time comes. I miss my occasional dairy product.
Bike ride with the kids to Dinosaur Park. Drank 16oz. water. Gastritis-type feeling again.
Not hungry for dinner. Tummy still hurts. I know I didn't eat or drink enough today. Pre-Whole30 I would eat something bland, like rice or oatmeal, when my belly hurt. Now I just have to suffer through it. I don't think this way of eating is the best for someone with the kind of intestinal problems I have. All the food seems too harsh on my stomach. I thought this would have made my GI issues better. They are not worse, but they have not improved much either. On the plus side, I have LESS bloating and MORE energy. I know I've lost some weight too, judging by how my clothes fit.
8:45 - bellyache not as bad; I should eat something, but it's kinda late. Maybe I'll just do tuna with the rest of my homemade mayo and 8oz. water.
Lunch at 2:00 - shredded and sauteed Brussels sprouts in olive oil; oven baked rosemary chicken breast, leg, and thigh meat; Granny Smith apple
I have a confession to make. I cheated just a *little* when making C&O smoothies (strawberries, blueberries, milk, and vanilla ice cream) after their lunch when I was making my lunch. I was salivating and really craving that creaminess. I did take a small sip...okay, two small sips, but that's it. If it weren't for Collin's sore throat from the endoscopy yesterday, we wouldn't even have ice cream in the house. I bet if I had breakfast this morning, I could have avoided the temptation. Anyway, I know what food group I'll be adding back in when the time comes. I miss my occasional dairy product.
Bike ride with the kids to Dinosaur Park. Drank 16oz. water. Gastritis-type feeling again.
Not hungry for dinner. Tummy still hurts. I know I didn't eat or drink enough today. Pre-Whole30 I would eat something bland, like rice or oatmeal, when my belly hurt. Now I just have to suffer through it. I don't think this way of eating is the best for someone with the kind of intestinal problems I have. All the food seems too harsh on my stomach. I thought this would have made my GI issues better. They are not worse, but they have not improved much either. On the plus side, I have LESS bloating and MORE energy. I know I've lost some weight too, judging by how my clothes fit.
8:45 - bellyache not as bad; I should eat something, but it's kinda late. Maybe I'll just do tuna with the rest of my homemade mayo and 8oz. water.
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
Day23
The longest day of doctor appointments ever...and most of the waiting was not for me, unfortunately (Collin ended up in the hospital). Got up a 6am for a 7am appointment for SI injections. Turns out he believes that in addition the the SI joint dysfunction, the ligament that attaches is messed up. The tissue feels like a knob or something. So on top of the SI injections, he did trigger shots in the ligament - OUCH! I am very, very sore from that. I hope it is worth it.
Had a quick breakfast at 9:00 - two egg omelet with ham and a sliced tomato on the side; 16oz. water with meds and supps.
Urogyno appointment at 11:00 to discuss either continuing the pessary or doing surgery to support the stage 2 cystocele. She thinks the urgency and frequency might be caused by the SI issues since the bladder nerves are right there. The recommendation is to continue the pessary for six months while I get my back fixed and go from there.
8oz. water on my way to Fairfax Hospital for an emergency endoscopy for Collin. Chicken still stuck from last night. :(
Lunch at hospital at 1:30 - one hamburger (no bun, no cheese, no condiments); lettuce and tomato salad (no dressing); Granny Smith apple; half a hard boiled egg
Mike checked Collin in around 11, but they didn't bring him back until 2:00! Then it took 90 minutes to extract all the food. No dilation needed but the eosinophils seem to have returned. Need to make an appointment with the EE clinic ASAP. We didn't leave the hospital until 5:00. Smoothies, ice cream, yogurt, and pudding for Collin for the next couple of days for his sore throat.
Dinner at 6:45 - roasted butternut squash with coconut oil and oven baked tilapia with olive oil and butter; three frozen strawberries; half a cup of frozen blueberries; 10oz. unsweetened coconut milk
Had a quick breakfast at 9:00 - two egg omelet with ham and a sliced tomato on the side; 16oz. water with meds and supps.
Urogyno appointment at 11:00 to discuss either continuing the pessary or doing surgery to support the stage 2 cystocele. She thinks the urgency and frequency might be caused by the SI issues since the bladder nerves are right there. The recommendation is to continue the pessary for six months while I get my back fixed and go from there.
8oz. water on my way to Fairfax Hospital for an emergency endoscopy for Collin. Chicken still stuck from last night. :(
Lunch at hospital at 1:30 - one hamburger (no bun, no cheese, no condiments); lettuce and tomato salad (no dressing); Granny Smith apple; half a hard boiled egg
Mike checked Collin in around 11, but they didn't bring him back until 2:00! Then it took 90 minutes to extract all the food. No dilation needed but the eosinophils seem to have returned. Need to make an appointment with the EE clinic ASAP. We didn't leave the hospital until 5:00. Smoothies, ice cream, yogurt, and pudding for Collin for the next couple of days for his sore throat.
Dinner at 6:45 - roasted butternut squash with coconut oil and oven baked tilapia with olive oil and butter; three frozen strawberries; half a cup of frozen blueberries; 10oz. unsweetened coconut milk
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Day22
Ordinary morning...meds and supps at 8:45 with 8oz. water, breakfast at 9:45 (curried ground beef and cabbage again - hey I like it, and it fills me up!) with 16oz. water.
Hooked up the trailer and took Collin to pick up Olivia from school (about two miles through the woods). It only took 15 minutes to get there but 25 to get home due to the extra weight. They both just BARELY fit in there. Probably won't be pulling two kiddos again, but it's perfect for one.
Lunch at 1:30 - leftover sauce with ground chicken; one cup unsweetened applesauce with cinnamon; 8oz. water
Snack at 3:00 - one sliced cucumber with balsamic vinegar and olive oil
Cardio kickboxing with Shannon at 4:30 - 20oz. water
Dinner at 7:00 - oven-baked chicken breast with carrots and broccoli cooked in bone/chicken broth
9:00 - Ick. I have that ulcery feeling again. It seems like chicken is involved in most of these cases....hmmmmmm....
Hooked up the trailer and took Collin to pick up Olivia from school (about two miles through the woods). It only took 15 minutes to get there but 25 to get home due to the extra weight. They both just BARELY fit in there. Probably won't be pulling two kiddos again, but it's perfect for one.
Lunch at 1:30 - leftover sauce with ground chicken; one cup unsweetened applesauce with cinnamon; 8oz. water
Snack at 3:00 - one sliced cucumber with balsamic vinegar and olive oil
Cardio kickboxing with Shannon at 4:30 - 20oz. water
Dinner at 7:00 - oven-baked chicken breast with carrots and broccoli cooked in bone/chicken broth
9:00 - Ick. I have that ulcery feeling again. It seems like chicken is involved in most of these cases....hmmmmmm....
Monday, September 16, 2013
Day21
Only woke up one time to pee around 2am and then slept until 7am - whoopee!!! Meds and supps at 9am with 10oz. water.
Breakfast at 9:45 - curried ground beef and cabbage; Granny Smith apple with cinnamon; 10oz. water
Michelle's bootcamp at 12:15! 16oz. water
Lunch at 2:00 - avocado egg salad (three eggs, one avocado, homemade mayo, mustard, green onions, salt, pepper, paprika); supps and 16oz. water
Bike ride trailing Livi for the first time at 3pm (Collin's first time on the W&OD bike trail!). We rode to Trailside Park, about two miles each way. 12oz. water
Dinner at 6:30 - zucchini noodles with ground chicken in roasted red pepper, tomato, and basil sauce; 8oz. water
Breakfast at 9:45 - curried ground beef and cabbage; Granny Smith apple with cinnamon; 10oz. water
Michelle's bootcamp at 12:15! 16oz. water
Lunch at 2:00 - avocado egg salad (three eggs, one avocado, homemade mayo, mustard, green onions, salt, pepper, paprika); supps and 16oz. water
Bike ride trailing Livi for the first time at 3pm (Collin's first time on the W&OD bike trail!). We rode to Trailside Park, about two miles each way. 12oz. water
Dinner at 6:30 - zucchini noodles with ground chicken in roasted red pepper, tomato, and basil sauce; 8oz. water
Sunday, September 15, 2013
Day20
Mike said we could invest in a topper for the mattress! I hope it works (for both of us); otherwise, it's almost $200 down the drain. I'm also going to try a different kind of pillow (another one) to help my neck, which is always strained in the morning.
Meds and supps with 10oz. water at 8:30. Breakfast at 8:45 - two eggs plus one egg white scrambled with three slices of leftover grilled steak and a side of sliced tomato. 8oz. water
Lunch at 12:45 - one-and-a-half cans tuna with homemade mayo, diced onion, capers, and sunflower seeds. 8oz. water
Water at the park, 16oz.
Dinner at 6:45 - grilled salmon on a bed of lettuce and sliced cucumber with balsamic vinegar and olive oil; 8oz. water
Not home much today, hence not much to eat, I guess. Church, then Skype, then bike trailer purchase, then playdate at the park. Can't wait to use the bike trailer tomorrow morning!
Meds and supps with 10oz. water at 8:30. Breakfast at 8:45 - two eggs plus one egg white scrambled with three slices of leftover grilled steak and a side of sliced tomato. 8oz. water
Lunch at 12:45 - one-and-a-half cans tuna with homemade mayo, diced onion, capers, and sunflower seeds. 8oz. water
Water at the park, 16oz.
Dinner at 6:45 - grilled salmon on a bed of lettuce and sliced cucumber with balsamic vinegar and olive oil; 8oz. water
Not home much today, hence not much to eat, I guess. Church, then Skype, then bike trailer purchase, then playdate at the park. Can't wait to use the bike trailer tomorrow morning!
Day19
Busy day! Just now getting on (4:30). Forgot to take meds and supps this morning and afternoon.
Breakfast at 9:30 - one-third head cabbage with curry and ground beef
Lunch really tried my commitment to this diet! At 1:00, I went to a baby shower. Where there are baby showers, there is a lot of yummy, rich, sweet, creamy, carb-loaded foods. I stuck to the veggie platter (broccoli and cauliflower mostly, with a couple of celery sticks and cucumber slices), the fruit platter (mostly strawberries, with a few grapes and a couple of pieces of honeydew melon), and sandwiches (sans bread, cheese, condiments) with ham, turkey, lettuce, and tomato. I turned down a glass of champagne for 16oz. of water to drink instead. Luckily, I left before they did the cake - that would have really put me over the edge because it was homemade from scratch and looked really, really good.
Church pictures and major head and neck ache for the latter part of the day. Still aching for dinner. Took extra strength Tylenol plus the supps I missed this morning with 10oz. water.
Dinner at 6:15 - grilled steak on a bed of lettuce, tomato, and cucumber with balsamic vinegar and olive oil; 10oz. water.
Breakfast at 9:30 - one-third head cabbage with curry and ground beef
Lunch really tried my commitment to this diet! At 1:00, I went to a baby shower. Where there are baby showers, there is a lot of yummy, rich, sweet, creamy, carb-loaded foods. I stuck to the veggie platter (broccoli and cauliflower mostly, with a couple of celery sticks and cucumber slices), the fruit platter (mostly strawberries, with a few grapes and a couple of pieces of honeydew melon), and sandwiches (sans bread, cheese, condiments) with ham, turkey, lettuce, and tomato. I turned down a glass of champagne for 16oz. of water to drink instead. Luckily, I left before they did the cake - that would have really put me over the edge because it was homemade from scratch and looked really, really good.
Church pictures and major head and neck ache for the latter part of the day. Still aching for dinner. Took extra strength Tylenol plus the supps I missed this morning with 10oz. water.
Dinner at 6:15 - grilled steak on a bed of lettuce, tomato, and cucumber with balsamic vinegar and olive oil; 10oz. water.
Friday, September 13, 2013
Day18
Pretty ordinary morning. I did only wake ONCE last night to pee (5am), but I also didn't go to bed until 1am-ish and peed then before bed (and around 11 before that and 9:30 before that). Took meds and supps at 8:45 with 12oz. water.
Breakfast at 9:30 - three scrambled eggs; one Granny Smith apple with cinnamon; 8oz. water
Lunch at 1:00 - one can of tuna with mustard, relish, and sunflower seeds; 12oz. water and supps
Snack at 3:00 - half cup frozen blueberries; four slices ham with mustard on lettuce leaves (tried to slice up some cucumber...mushy...then avocado...rotten...what else can I have? I'm hungry!); 10oz. unsweetened coconut milk
Dinner at 7:30 (forgot to eat because of new Legos!) - pork tenderloin browned with olive oil then simmered in bone broth, apples, sweet potatoes, and cinnamon with crispy onions sauteed in coconut oil on top; 8oz. water. Yummo!
Breakfast at 9:30 - three scrambled eggs; one Granny Smith apple with cinnamon; 8oz. water
Lunch at 1:00 - one can of tuna with mustard, relish, and sunflower seeds; 12oz. water and supps
Snack at 3:00 - half cup frozen blueberries; four slices ham with mustard on lettuce leaves (tried to slice up some cucumber...mushy...then avocado...rotten...what else can I have? I'm hungry!); 10oz. unsweetened coconut milk
Dinner at 7:30 (forgot to eat because of new Legos!) - pork tenderloin browned with olive oil then simmered in bone broth, apples, sweet potatoes, and cinnamon with crispy onions sauteed in coconut oil on top; 8oz. water. Yummo!
Thursday, September 12, 2013
Day17
Hmm, still getting up a couple of times (2am and 5am) to pee. So annoying. But what is very convenient is that I had leftover "rice" from last night that I made into cauliflower fried rice by adding two scrambled eggs - yummy, wholesome breakfast! Took my HCTZ, probiotic, cal/mg citrate, and MSM with 8oz. water and drank another 8oz. with my food.
Did the park and Rocknoceros concert at the mall with Collin. We had lunch around 11:00. I choose a plain grilled hamburger (hold the bun, cheese, ketchup) and loaded it with tomatoes, lettuce, dill pickles, and mustard. 10oz. water to drink.
Had to run to the bathroom as soon as possible for terrible diarrhea (I've been having it again for the past week, but this time it is beyond just loose stools).
12:30 - the rest of my supps with 8oz. unsweetened coconut milk
2:45 - one cup of frozen blueberries; 8oz. water
6:35 - one tomato while I'm making dinner...
Dinner at 7:15 - oven-baked tilapia with olive oil, lemon pepper, lemon juice, capers, fresh dill, and butter (omg, YUM!) on a bed of romaine lettuce and a side of half an avocado, sliced. 6oz. water
No ulcer pains today. Some uterine cramping and of course the yucky BMs. I'm so over that!
Did the park and Rocknoceros concert at the mall with Collin. We had lunch around 11:00. I choose a plain grilled hamburger (hold the bun, cheese, ketchup) and loaded it with tomatoes, lettuce, dill pickles, and mustard. 10oz. water to drink.
Had to run to the bathroom as soon as possible for terrible diarrhea (I've been having it again for the past week, but this time it is beyond just loose stools).
12:30 - the rest of my supps with 8oz. unsweetened coconut milk
2:45 - one cup of frozen blueberries; 8oz. water
6:35 - one tomato while I'm making dinner...
Dinner at 7:15 - oven-baked tilapia with olive oil, lemon pepper, lemon juice, capers, fresh dill, and butter (omg, YUM!) on a bed of romaine lettuce and a side of half an avocado, sliced. 6oz. water
No ulcer pains today. Some uterine cramping and of course the yucky BMs. I'm so over that!
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
Day16
Another early morning for another test! Bone density scan was a piece of cake compared to an MRI. It will be interesting to see what turns up. Took HCTZ and probiotic with 8oz. water before I left at 7am.
Breakfast at 9:30 - three leftover meatballs and sauce from last night; one Granny Smith apple
16oz. water 10:45.
Huge willpower test today for lunch! I took the kids to the fountains in front of the Alamo. They were all hot and summery, so naturally some kind of frozen treat was in order....and the Alamo has milkshakes, my favorite. They also have really yummy soft-baked pretzels. I winced as I ordered two shakes (not three), two pretzels (not three), and a Romaine-based salad with red peppers, olives, basil pesto, and chicken (hold the mozzarella, croutons, and dressing) with 16oz. of water. As I was eating my salad and drinking my water, I felt pretty good about myself...
...until the kids said they were full halfway through their shakes, leaving half a vanilla and half a chocolate that normally I would happily finish for them (those things aren't cheap). Didn't help that they were pressuring me ("Want some of mine, Mommy? It's sooooo good! You would really like it!" over and over from both of them). Then, come to find out, Olivia didn't care for her pretzel, so we have one whole, beautiful pretzel with no one to eat it (I put it in the freezer for safe keeping).
Finally, when we got home, I doctored up C's pretzel to be a sweeter version since he wasn't diggin' the salt. I brushed some melted butter on with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a sprinkle of coconut sugar - OMG, smelled and looked divine! - and of course there is still some left sitting here next to me, taunting me. I will not give in. I will not give in. I will not. give. in.
But it's really hard!
Time to bag this baby up, and put it out of sight. Starting to feel that stomach pain coming on...
2:30 - handful of sprouted pumpkin seeds
Ugh, stomach pain worse. Sucking it up, though. We have a playdate to attend. Hopefully dinner will help!
4:00 - 16oz. water at playground (it was 95 degrees!)
7:30 - another late dinner due to following new but great recipes! I made orange chicken with cauliflower rice. The kids and Mike had regular rice, but I made it with bone broth instead of water. See links below for recipes. I also had one orange and 8oz. water.
Orange Chicken
Cauliflower Rice (I added scallions and coconut aminos for some extra flavor)
9:00 - Stomach pain gone. Not sure what that was all about.
10:00 - Stomach pain back. WTH?!
Breakfast at 9:30 - three leftover meatballs and sauce from last night; one Granny Smith apple
16oz. water 10:45.
Huge willpower test today for lunch! I took the kids to the fountains in front of the Alamo. They were all hot and summery, so naturally some kind of frozen treat was in order....and the Alamo has milkshakes, my favorite. They also have really yummy soft-baked pretzels. I winced as I ordered two shakes (not three), two pretzels (not three), and a Romaine-based salad with red peppers, olives, basil pesto, and chicken (hold the mozzarella, croutons, and dressing) with 16oz. of water. As I was eating my salad and drinking my water, I felt pretty good about myself...
...until the kids said they were full halfway through their shakes, leaving half a vanilla and half a chocolate that normally I would happily finish for them (those things aren't cheap). Didn't help that they were pressuring me ("Want some of mine, Mommy? It's sooooo good! You would really like it!" over and over from both of them). Then, come to find out, Olivia didn't care for her pretzel, so we have one whole, beautiful pretzel with no one to eat it (I put it in the freezer for safe keeping).
Finally, when we got home, I doctored up C's pretzel to be a sweeter version since he wasn't diggin' the salt. I brushed some melted butter on with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a sprinkle of coconut sugar - OMG, smelled and looked divine! - and of course there is still some left sitting here next to me, taunting me. I will not give in. I will not give in. I will not. give. in.
But it's really hard!
Time to bag this baby up, and put it out of sight. Starting to feel that stomach pain coming on...
2:30 - handful of sprouted pumpkin seeds
Ugh, stomach pain worse. Sucking it up, though. We have a playdate to attend. Hopefully dinner will help!
4:00 - 16oz. water at playground (it was 95 degrees!)
7:30 - another late dinner due to following new but great recipes! I made orange chicken with cauliflower rice. The kids and Mike had regular rice, but I made it with bone broth instead of water. See links below for recipes. I also had one orange and 8oz. water.
Orange Chicken
Cauliflower Rice (I added scallions and coconut aminos for some extra flavor)
9:00 - Stomach pain gone. Not sure what that was all about.
10:00 - Stomach pain back. WTH?!
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Day15
Yay! It's the halfway day! To celebrate, I dragged my broken ass to bootcamp for a signature Michelle workout, which is Mommy Bootcamp on steroids. Though I had to modify a few moves for my back, I have to say, I felt good and could keep up. At one point, I even got emotional thinking about what a year it's been and how happy I am to be on the right track to being "back." As soon as I got home, my back was aching, so I'm now wearing all my supports plus an ice wrap.
Drank 25+ oz. water during my workout. Forgot my meds and supps, so I'll take those now (10:45) with brunch, which is two fried eggs in ghee and one half small head of curried cabbage, also sauteed with ghee. 16oz. more of water to wash everything down. No supps with calcium today, as I have the bone density test tomorrow morning.
Snack at 1:30 - one Granny Smith apple
More ice for my back...
2nd Snack (obviously I didn't eat enough earlier) at 3:45 - two slices of ham and two slices of turkey with mustard; a handful of grapes; 8oz. water
Dinner at 7:30 - late, I know...too ambitious with a couple new recipes tonight - roasted broccoli, Asian meatballs, homemade roasted red pepper and basil tomato sauce, and 16oz. water.
Here are links to the dinner recipes:
Broccoli
Meatballs (I used ground chicken.)
Sauce (I added some tomato paste to this.)
Really, really good dinner and worth the wait. Even the kids liked it and ate it all. Collin said about the broccoli, "Mmm, this is the goodest broccoli yet I've ever tasted, better than I ever imagined!" And I didn't even put the cheese on it. I did give them some whole wheat spaghetti for their balls and sauce; I was going to make zuc noods but ran out of time and energy. I was quite satisfied with a pile of meatballs dripping in sauce and another pile of broccoli next to it. Didn't even miss the spaghetti part. :)
And now that the day is over, I can officially say I'm halfway through my Whole30!!!!!!
P.S. 9:45pm - That yucky gastritisy ulcer discomfort is back...haven't had it for a couple of days. What gives? My back is feeling like a hot mess. Probably should not have joined in for the dead-lifts, even if I was only using 10lbs. Ice pack back on.
Drank 25+ oz. water during my workout. Forgot my meds and supps, so I'll take those now (10:45) with brunch, which is two fried eggs in ghee and one half small head of curried cabbage, also sauteed with ghee. 16oz. more of water to wash everything down. No supps with calcium today, as I have the bone density test tomorrow morning.
Snack at 1:30 - one Granny Smith apple
More ice for my back...
2nd Snack (obviously I didn't eat enough earlier) at 3:45 - two slices of ham and two slices of turkey with mustard; a handful of grapes; 8oz. water
Dinner at 7:30 - late, I know...too ambitious with a couple new recipes tonight - roasted broccoli, Asian meatballs, homemade roasted red pepper and basil tomato sauce, and 16oz. water.
Here are links to the dinner recipes:
Broccoli
Meatballs (I used ground chicken.)
Sauce (I added some tomato paste to this.)
Really, really good dinner and worth the wait. Even the kids liked it and ate it all. Collin said about the broccoli, "Mmm, this is the goodest broccoli yet I've ever tasted, better than I ever imagined!" And I didn't even put the cheese on it. I did give them some whole wheat spaghetti for their balls and sauce; I was going to make zuc noods but ran out of time and energy. I was quite satisfied with a pile of meatballs dripping in sauce and another pile of broccoli next to it. Didn't even miss the spaghetti part. :)
And now that the day is over, I can officially say I'm halfway through my Whole30!!!!!!
P.S. 9:45pm - That yucky gastritisy ulcer discomfort is back...haven't had it for a couple of days. What gives? My back is feeling like a hot mess. Probably should not have joined in for the dead-lifts, even if I was only using 10lbs. Ice pack back on.
Monday, September 9, 2013
Day14
Did the OAT urine sample at 6:45. Hope I did it right! Meds and water around 8:00. Rushing around to clean the house before I have to leave for the back doctor (printed two articles linking MSK and hyperoxaluria with bone degeneration) to discuss the SI joint dysfunction.
Breakfast at 9:15 - two eggs plus one egg white with ham omelet; half an avocado and one small vine tomato sliced on the side; 8oz. water.
Back doctor said to wear an SI joint belt to stabilize the joint and help it heal. He recommends another set of SI injections as well. Finally, he ordered a bone scan to get a baseline bone density since I may be at risk for osteo with the MSK and hypercalciuria. He only needs to see me back if the injections and SI belt don't do the trick within a few months.
Lunch at 1:15 - one can tuna with dill relish and mustard and sunflower seeds sprinkled on top
OAT picked up by FedEx around 1:45.
2:15 - Back to all my supplements now that the OAT is done; 16oz. water; one apple; one orange (craving something sweet or two!)
Dinner at 7:00 - ground beef, onion, cabbage, and curry powder sauteed with ghee; 16oz. water
I am so glad we had a curry dish tonight! I had a craving for it while out at the playground this afternoon. Haven't had curry since....hmmm....probably my friend's baby shower 3+ years ago. Funny how this diet brings out cravings your tastebuds forgot about. I wish I had made more!
Breakfast at 9:15 - two eggs plus one egg white with ham omelet; half an avocado and one small vine tomato sliced on the side; 8oz. water.
Back doctor said to wear an SI joint belt to stabilize the joint and help it heal. He recommends another set of SI injections as well. Finally, he ordered a bone scan to get a baseline bone density since I may be at risk for osteo with the MSK and hypercalciuria. He only needs to see me back if the injections and SI belt don't do the trick within a few months.
Lunch at 1:15 - one can tuna with dill relish and mustard and sunflower seeds sprinkled on top
OAT picked up by FedEx around 1:45.
2:15 - Back to all my supplements now that the OAT is done; 16oz. water; one apple; one orange (craving something sweet or two!)
Dinner at 7:00 - ground beef, onion, cabbage, and curry powder sauteed with ghee; 16oz. water
I am so glad we had a curry dish tonight! I had a craving for it while out at the playground this afternoon. Haven't had curry since....hmmm....probably my friend's baby shower 3+ years ago. Funny how this diet brings out cravings your tastebuds forgot about. I wish I had made more!
Sunday, September 8, 2013
Organic Acids Test (OAT)
Tomorrow I'm doing the Organic Acids Test (OAT) sample. This initial screening test is used to...
- Evaluate energy production
- Assess central nervous system function
- Evaluate integrity of intestinal wall
- Reveal high levels of GI yeast and bacteria
- Detect nutritional and antioxidant deficiencies
- Determine problems in fatty acid metabolism
- Identify excess oxalate
Day13
We all made it to church this morning! In the rush to get out of here, I skipped breakfast (boo! took my meds with 8oz. water, though) and was starving when we got home at 11:00.
Brunch - oven-baked chicken, shredded, with homemade mayo, mustard, and half an avocado mashed together to make chicken salad served on a bed of lettuce and a sliced vine tomato; 8oz. water
Snack at 3:45 - pumpkin smoothie!
- 5 pieces of ice
- half a can of pumpkin puree
- small sprinkle of cloves*
- small sprinkle of nutmeg*
- medium sprinkle of cinnamon*
- 1/2-1 cup unsweetened coconut milk (depending on desired thickness)
BLEND
*or you could use pumpkin pie spice...I just didn't have any.
I added more ice and two tablespoons of coconut sugar for the kids since they didn't care for the unsweetened version. Froze the leftovers into popsicles. Hope they turn out okay!
I'm looking forward to doing more things with pumpkin once the Whole30 is over. Most pumpkin recipes are grain (or grain-like) related and/or sweetened. I think the kids would enjoy pumpkin pancakes, pumpkin muffins, pumpkin cookies, pumpkin cream of wheat or oatmeal, and of course, pumpkin pie, especially for this autumn time of year. I'll try to go as whole and as primal as possible, though, and use as little natural sweetener as I can get away with. Here's a paleo web page devoted to all things pumpkin: http://www.easypaleo.com/tag/pumpkin/
Dinner at 7:00 - grilled salmon filet with leftover mixed veggies (zucchini, squash, mushrooms, broccoli, onion); 16oz. water
Positively neat thing that happened today: I was able to comfortably put on a pair of jeans I haven't worn since 2006. Even then they were kinda tight. Instead of a button to fasten above the zipper, they have a snap, and that thing would always pop open when I sat down. Not today! They fit like they should and I've had zero issues with the snap coming undone. So even though I'm not supposed to weight myself during this program, I'm guessing I'm already down at least eight pounds, which puts me in the "normal" BMI range. Sweet.
Brunch - oven-baked chicken, shredded, with homemade mayo, mustard, and half an avocado mashed together to make chicken salad served on a bed of lettuce and a sliced vine tomato; 8oz. water
Snack at 3:45 - pumpkin smoothie!
- 5 pieces of ice
- half a can of pumpkin puree
- small sprinkle of cloves*
- small sprinkle of nutmeg*
- medium sprinkle of cinnamon*
- 1/2-1 cup unsweetened coconut milk (depending on desired thickness)
BLEND
*or you could use pumpkin pie spice...I just didn't have any.
I added more ice and two tablespoons of coconut sugar for the kids since they didn't care for the unsweetened version. Froze the leftovers into popsicles. Hope they turn out okay!
I'm looking forward to doing more things with pumpkin once the Whole30 is over. Most pumpkin recipes are grain (or grain-like) related and/or sweetened. I think the kids would enjoy pumpkin pancakes, pumpkin muffins, pumpkin cookies, pumpkin cream of wheat or oatmeal, and of course, pumpkin pie, especially for this autumn time of year. I'll try to go as whole and as primal as possible, though, and use as little natural sweetener as I can get away with. Here's a paleo web page devoted to all things pumpkin: http://www.easypaleo.com/tag/pumpkin/
Dinner at 7:00 - grilled salmon filet with leftover mixed veggies (zucchini, squash, mushrooms, broccoli, onion); 16oz. water
Positively neat thing that happened today: I was able to comfortably put on a pair of jeans I haven't worn since 2006. Even then they were kinda tight. Instead of a button to fasten above the zipper, they have a snap, and that thing would always pop open when I sat down. Not today! They fit like they should and I've had zero issues with the snap coming undone. So even though I'm not supposed to weight myself during this program, I'm guessing I'm already down at least eight pounds, which puts me in the "normal" BMI range. Sweet.
Saturday, September 7, 2013
Day12
Sleep last night was better than usual - in bed by 10:45 and asleep by 11:30 after reading, then up at 3:30 and 5:30 to pee before waking up to start the day at 7:30 (more pee). A four-hour stretch is very good in the history of my sleep! No PPI meds left but took the HCTZ and probiotic at 9:30 with 8oz. water with breakfast. I attempted to make half a batch of mayo, but I found that if you don't make the whole recipe, it comes out extremely oily/runny. It just never thickened up, probably because of lack of egg yolk. Still tastes okay, though.
With the lack of creaminess, I decided to add avocado to some hard-boiled eggs and make an avocado egg salad:
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, diced
- half an avocado, diced
- one scallion, finely sliced (or red onion or chives)
- Tbsp. homemade mayo
- tsp. mustard
- squeeze of lemon juice
- sprinkle of paprika
Mash everything together, except for the lemon and paprika, which you can save for the top. Enjoy! Like I wrote in one of the early posts, egg and avocado go together very nicely. And this is pretty filling, too. I'm going to have 10oz. water with the leftover lemon to finish off the meal, then take a shower, then head off to Collin's very first soccer practice. :)
Lunch at 1:00 - three thin slices of ham with mustard; one can of tuna with homemade mayo and mustard on a bed of lettuce, sprinkled with sunflower seeds. 16oz. water.
Snack at 4:00 - one large cucumber with balsamic vinegar and olive oil; 8oz. water
6:15 - another 8oz. water and about 1oz. chicken breast
Dinner at 7:15 - grilled steak, oven-baked chicken breast, and sauteed vegetable medley with zucchini, squash, mushrooms, broccoli, and red onion in coconut oil; 8oz. water
8:00 - small bowl bone broth (still pretty tasteless...not sure if that's the way it's supposed to be or what...I'll try less water next time, maybe 2.5 cups instead of 3.5); my fam doesn't know, but I made their couscous with bone broth instead of water tonight. :)
Overall, I felt rather good today! One one contraction-like uterine pain during dinner but pain-free otherwise. No ulcer symptoms, and I didn't even take the acid-blocker.
With the lack of creaminess, I decided to add avocado to some hard-boiled eggs and make an avocado egg salad:
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, diced
- half an avocado, diced
- one scallion, finely sliced (or red onion or chives)
- Tbsp. homemade mayo
- tsp. mustard
- squeeze of lemon juice
- sprinkle of paprika
Mash everything together, except for the lemon and paprika, which you can save for the top. Enjoy! Like I wrote in one of the early posts, egg and avocado go together very nicely. And this is pretty filling, too. I'm going to have 10oz. water with the leftover lemon to finish off the meal, then take a shower, then head off to Collin's very first soccer practice. :)
Lunch at 1:00 - three thin slices of ham with mustard; one can of tuna with homemade mayo and mustard on a bed of lettuce, sprinkled with sunflower seeds. 16oz. water.
Snack at 4:00 - one large cucumber with balsamic vinegar and olive oil; 8oz. water
6:15 - another 8oz. water and about 1oz. chicken breast
Dinner at 7:15 - grilled steak, oven-baked chicken breast, and sauteed vegetable medley with zucchini, squash, mushrooms, broccoli, and red onion in coconut oil; 8oz. water
8:00 - small bowl bone broth (still pretty tasteless...not sure if that's the way it's supposed to be or what...I'll try less water next time, maybe 2.5 cups instead of 3.5); my fam doesn't know, but I made their couscous with bone broth instead of water tonight. :)
Overall, I felt rather good today! One one contraction-like uterine pain during dinner but pain-free otherwise. No ulcer symptoms, and I didn't even take the acid-blocker.
Friday, September 6, 2013
Day11
I feel much better this morning. Only got up to pee at 3:30 and 6:30, so good news there. These morning doctor appointments are really messing with my eating schedule! Today was for Collin's pulmonology check-up, so it was nice to not be talking about my health issues for a change. Took my morning meds with 8oz. water (last day of the PPI...not sure what we are going to do about the ulcer/gastritis now since I'm still having symptoms).
Just now getting to eat breakfast at 10:45 - omelet with two eggs plus two egg whites, four thin slices of ham, and a tablespoon of mild salsa; side of boiled stirfry veggies, one cup, and a handful of grapes. 8oz. water and 10oz. unsweetened coconut milk.
I'm going to try for bootcamp at 12:15 for PowerSTRONG. Hope the kids cooperate!
Great bootcamp! I felt *almost* as good as new. :) No bladder pressure or need to pee (had the pessary in), and I barely felt my back (there were a few exercises that strained the right side, and I felt a twinge here and there, but that's it). I modified the jumping to a low impact version, and that seemed to work well for me. 16oz. water
Lunch at 2:30 - leftover salmon cake with mixed stir fry veggies; half cup of unsweetened applesauce; 8oz. water
Snack at 5:00 - half an orange
Dinner at 7:00 - pan-fried thin pork chop and sauteed shredded Brussels sprouts in olive oil; leg/thigh of baked chicken; 10oz. unsweetened coconut milk; 8oz. lemon water
The kids just sat down for *maybe* a family tradition - First Friday Movie Night! I made them some popcorn (wish it were me!), the ol' pot-on-the-stove version:
- put one tbsp. coconut oil in the pot
- put enough kernels in to cover the bottom in one layer
- put the cover on and cook on high until the kernels start popping
- slide pot back and forth over the flame so that the popcorn won't burn
- turn off heat when little to no more kernels are popping
Sweet and Salty topping:
- liberally shake on some salt
- liberally sprinkle on some coconut sugar
- melt a couple tablespoons of butter and pour on evenly
- stir with a spoon
I know I'm on the Whole30 and all, but I just HAD to try ONE piece of popcorn. I had never made a sweet-ish version, and I was curious to taste coconut sugar. I promise it was just one piece, and it didn't have that much sugar on it anyway. And guess what? I like coconut sugar. A little goes a long way. Kinda tastes like brown sugar but with a better texture and lighter flavor. One piece. That's it. Before this program, I would have easily helped myself to a bowl or two.
Just now getting to eat breakfast at 10:45 - omelet with two eggs plus two egg whites, four thin slices of ham, and a tablespoon of mild salsa; side of boiled stirfry veggies, one cup, and a handful of grapes. 8oz. water and 10oz. unsweetened coconut milk.
I'm going to try for bootcamp at 12:15 for PowerSTRONG. Hope the kids cooperate!
Great bootcamp! I felt *almost* as good as new. :) No bladder pressure or need to pee (had the pessary in), and I barely felt my back (there were a few exercises that strained the right side, and I felt a twinge here and there, but that's it). I modified the jumping to a low impact version, and that seemed to work well for me. 16oz. water
Lunch at 2:30 - leftover salmon cake with mixed stir fry veggies; half cup of unsweetened applesauce; 8oz. water
Snack at 5:00 - half an orange
Dinner at 7:00 - pan-fried thin pork chop and sauteed shredded Brussels sprouts in olive oil; leg/thigh of baked chicken; 10oz. unsweetened coconut milk; 8oz. lemon water
The kids just sat down for *maybe* a family tradition - First Friday Movie Night! I made them some popcorn (wish it were me!), the ol' pot-on-the-stove version:
- put one tbsp. coconut oil in the pot
- put enough kernels in to cover the bottom in one layer
- put the cover on and cook on high until the kernels start popping
- slide pot back and forth over the flame so that the popcorn won't burn
- turn off heat when little to no more kernels are popping
Sweet and Salty topping:
- liberally shake on some salt
- liberally sprinkle on some coconut sugar
- melt a couple tablespoons of butter and pour on evenly
- stir with a spoon
I know I'm on the Whole30 and all, but I just HAD to try ONE piece of popcorn. I had never made a sweet-ish version, and I was curious to taste coconut sugar. I promise it was just one piece, and it didn't have that much sugar on it anyway. And guess what? I like coconut sugar. A little goes a long way. Kinda tastes like brown sugar but with a better texture and lighter flavor. One piece. That's it. Before this program, I would have easily helped myself to a bowl or two.
Day10
Double digits! Slept four hours straight without having to pee again, woo hoo! I probably could have made it longer than two hours after, too, if I didn't have to get up early for this doctor's appointment. Took my morning meds with 8oz. water. The pessary is in, although I don't like the pressure it creates in my bottom. Maybe that is something I'll get used to? If not, I will have to be refitted.
Best appointment ever! Finally, an endocrinologist who was not only knowledgeable, but one who really LISTENS and tries to connect the pieces. She has redeemed my faith in the field of endocrinology. The biggest breakthrough? Peeing too much calcium = more frequent urination. She says my hypercalciuria is idiopathic, meaning we don't know the cause, but she is confident that this is the reason for the urinary problems and is also connected to the GI issues. I just found a study that connects vitamin D with calcium with kidney with bone, all areas of dysfunction for me. Need to read that one closer! It seems that the cysts, endo, and fibroid issues are unrelated, just genetic. I'm wondering now if the urgency/pressure I feel is directly related to the positioning of my bladder, which is prolapsed, and if that misplacement has contributed to the SI joint dysfunction? The three pieces of the puzzle that remain a mystery: the night-waking to pee still after a year of interrupted sleep, the reason behind the ulcer and gastritis forming and still hanging on after two months of meds, and the chronic fatigue with frequent headaches...could the latter two be the effect of the former? If so, how do we fix the nocturia????
Brunch at 10:30 - 2 hard-boiled eggs, leftover meat sauce from last night, apple, 16oz. water
Lunch at 1:30 - vegan, grain-free, sugar-free, paleo banana coconut flaxseed muffin with a teeny-tiny sliver of butter and 8oz. water
2:00 - 8oz. water (I'm thirsty!) My tummy also doesn't feel well...same ol' ulcer-type pain. :(
Slept from 2:45-3:30. Woke up still feeling yucky (nausea, burning stomach, and now left upper back pain). Neck is sore, head hurts, cheeks hot. Maybe I'm coming down with something?
5:15 - making dinner made me want to vomit; if it weren't for the kids, I would have just gone back upstairs in bed, but they need to eat, and Daddy's not home.
Dinner at 6:15 - salmon cake (recipe in Whole30 book) with a side of mixed stir fry veggies (broccoli, red pepper, mushrooms, onions, and French green beans); forcing myself to eat, but I don't feel like it at all. Ugh. 8oz. water
Best appointment ever! Finally, an endocrinologist who was not only knowledgeable, but one who really LISTENS and tries to connect the pieces. She has redeemed my faith in the field of endocrinology. The biggest breakthrough? Peeing too much calcium = more frequent urination. She says my hypercalciuria is idiopathic, meaning we don't know the cause, but she is confident that this is the reason for the urinary problems and is also connected to the GI issues. I just found a study that connects vitamin D with calcium with kidney with bone, all areas of dysfunction for me. Need to read that one closer! It seems that the cysts, endo, and fibroid issues are unrelated, just genetic. I'm wondering now if the urgency/pressure I feel is directly related to the positioning of my bladder, which is prolapsed, and if that misplacement has contributed to the SI joint dysfunction? The three pieces of the puzzle that remain a mystery: the night-waking to pee still after a year of interrupted sleep, the reason behind the ulcer and gastritis forming and still hanging on after two months of meds, and the chronic fatigue with frequent headaches...could the latter two be the effect of the former? If so, how do we fix the nocturia????
Brunch at 10:30 - 2 hard-boiled eggs, leftover meat sauce from last night, apple, 16oz. water
Lunch at 1:30 - vegan, grain-free, sugar-free, paleo banana coconut flaxseed muffin with a teeny-tiny sliver of butter and 8oz. water
2:00 - 8oz. water (I'm thirsty!) My tummy also doesn't feel well...same ol' ulcer-type pain. :(
Slept from 2:45-3:30. Woke up still feeling yucky (nausea, burning stomach, and now left upper back pain). Neck is sore, head hurts, cheeks hot. Maybe I'm coming down with something?
5:15 - making dinner made me want to vomit; if it weren't for the kids, I would have just gone back upstairs in bed, but they need to eat, and Daddy's not home.
Dinner at 6:15 - salmon cake (recipe in Whole30 book) with a side of mixed stir fry veggies (broccoli, red pepper, mushrooms, onions, and French green beans); forcing myself to eat, but I don't feel like it at all. Ugh. 8oz. water
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
Day9
Wow, I actually slept for four hours in a row last night without having to get up and pee! Still exhausted this morning (had to get up at 6:15 to get ready for urogyno appointment...leaving the house in a few minutes at 7:00) and have a headache again, but the rest of my body feels good. I'm starting to notice that my clothes fit much, much better. Not even minding so much that since my Hanes cotton underwear is all in the wash I have to resort to the lacy type, thongs included. Yeah, haven't seen these things for, um, years? The skin on my face is the clearest it has ever been and soft. That's either the biotin, this eating plan, or both. I'll take it. Took my morning meds and probiotic with 8oz. water. I'm going to lay off the other supps for about five days so that I can do the Organic Acid Test (OAT) on Monday. Don't want to skew the results.
Off to the doctor! I'll bring two hard boiled eggs, an apple, and a bottle of water to eat for breakfast on the way.
It took two hours to get to Rockville (instead of 45 minutes), but I got in. The bladder plan right now is to try a pessary to support/hold up my bladder during the day so that hopefully it will fully empty by night time. I am to record bathroom visits for two weeks. If this helps, then we'll talk surgery for a more permanent fix. If not, I don't know what.
Lunch at 1:30 - one can of tuna with mustard, dill relish, homemade mayo, and a sprinkle of sunflower seeds on top; one sliced cucumber with balsamic vinegar and olive oil on the side
4:00 snack - 2oz. grilled steak with splash of Worcestershire sauce and half an avocado, sliced. 8oz. water.
My Italian ancestors would be proud: I made sauce. No, I didn't simmer it all day, only for 45 minutes, but I DID roast my own red peppers and pureed them with vine tomatoes, tomato paste, garlic, onion, oregano, fines herbs, and fresh basil from the garden. I added this mixture to some ground beef and simmered. This homemade sauce, devoid of excess sodium and sugar and all of the other crap the store-bought versions contain, will be served on a bed of spaghetti squash (sorry Italian ancestors). Can't wait to eat dinnah!!!!
Dinner at 6:15 - Sooooo good! I'm a good sauce maker, if I do say so myself.
Off to the doctor! I'll bring two hard boiled eggs, an apple, and a bottle of water to eat for breakfast on the way.
It took two hours to get to Rockville (instead of 45 minutes), but I got in. The bladder plan right now is to try a pessary to support/hold up my bladder during the day so that hopefully it will fully empty by night time. I am to record bathroom visits for two weeks. If this helps, then we'll talk surgery for a more permanent fix. If not, I don't know what.
Lunch at 1:30 - one can of tuna with mustard, dill relish, homemade mayo, and a sprinkle of sunflower seeds on top; one sliced cucumber with balsamic vinegar and olive oil on the side
4:00 snack - 2oz. grilled steak with splash of Worcestershire sauce and half an avocado, sliced. 8oz. water.
My Italian ancestors would be proud: I made sauce. No, I didn't simmer it all day, only for 45 minutes, but I DID roast my own red peppers and pureed them with vine tomatoes, tomato paste, garlic, onion, oregano, fines herbs, and fresh basil from the garden. I added this mixture to some ground beef and simmered. This homemade sauce, devoid of excess sodium and sugar and all of the other crap the store-bought versions contain, will be served on a bed of spaghetti squash (sorry Italian ancestors). Can't wait to eat dinnah!!!!
Dinner at 6:15 - Sooooo good! I'm a good sauce maker, if I do say so myself.
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
Day8
One week down, a little over three to go!
Another night of interrupted sleep, another whopper of a headache this morning. Had to bring Maisie to the vet for a shot, which always brings on some anxiety for everybody involved, so breakfast was postponed until 10:00. All of this plus the kids whining and being extra needy makes me feel "hangry" (hungry and angry). Definitely just blew up at Olivia after she asked me for the eighth time if she could have another fruit pouch, and for the eighth time I said no then yelled at her to go to her room to play and stop asking. She is crying to Collin about how she doesn't want Mommy to yell at her anymore. :( I hope this eating plan isn't turning me into someone mean and crazy. Not sure if I can make it three more weeks like this, not to mention all the animal protein is probably not the best for my kidneys. My stomach is not feeling any better either. What if I'm doing more harm than good?
Breakfast - 3-egg omelet with ham and mushrooms; 16oz. water (meds and 8oz. water at 8:30)
Feeling awful today :(
Lunch at 1:30 - 1/3 grilled pork tenderloin, half an avocado, handful of grapes, large bowl bone broth
Cheeks flushed, major headache, and 16oz. water at 2:30. Have not taken supps or medicine to help headache yet.
Appointment with Dr. Adler, nephrologist.
Another night of interrupted sleep, another whopper of a headache this morning. Had to bring Maisie to the vet for a shot, which always brings on some anxiety for everybody involved, so breakfast was postponed until 10:00. All of this plus the kids whining and being extra needy makes me feel "hangry" (hungry and angry). Definitely just blew up at Olivia after she asked me for the eighth time if she could have another fruit pouch, and for the eighth time I said no then yelled at her to go to her room to play and stop asking. She is crying to Collin about how she doesn't want Mommy to yell at her anymore. :( I hope this eating plan isn't turning me into someone mean and crazy. Not sure if I can make it three more weeks like this, not to mention all the animal protein is probably not the best for my kidneys. My stomach is not feeling any better either. What if I'm doing more harm than good?
Breakfast - 3-egg omelet with ham and mushrooms; 16oz. water (meds and 8oz. water at 8:30)
Feeling awful today :(
Lunch at 1:30 - 1/3 grilled pork tenderloin, half an avocado, handful of grapes, large bowl bone broth
Cheeks flushed, major headache, and 16oz. water at 2:30. Have not taken supps or medicine to help headache yet.
Appointment with Dr. Adler, nephrologist.
Monday, September 2, 2013
Day7
Ah, the end of the first week. That went by pretty quickly, so I hope the rest of the month does as well. I'm getting kinda sick of having the same eggs and ground meat with veggies or apple for breakfast every morning. Yes, the flavor may change, but let's be honest - it's the same meal.
Maisie was at it again last night with the gate, and I had to pee a few times, so once again, I didn't get much sleep. Hello headache, not so nice to have you again. Took meds and Tylenol with 8oz. water around 8am.
Breakfast at 9:00 - ground turkey with sauteed apples in coconut oil, cinnamon, and nutmeg. 6oz. water.
Clemyjontri Park for lunch around 12:00 and playtime today -- it was HOT! I ate two hard-boiled eggs, a cucumber, half an avocado, a handful of grapes, five cooked baby carrots, and 20oz. water.
4:00 -- need a pick-me-up...so tired! Had a handful of sprouted pumpkin seeds for a snack.
4:15-5:15 - napping on and off while kids played...couldn't keep my eyes open; major ulcer/gastritis pains; lack of appetite; headache - what is going on?
Dinner at 6:30 - forced myself to eat a couple pieces of broccoli, 2oz. grilled steak, and five grilled scallops with 16oz. water (I may not be hungry, but I am thirsty!).
9:30...neck is aching but the headache has subsided. Still not hungry, though. I wonder if I'm going through a low blood sugar thing? I mean, I am eating dramatically less sugar (none except for the little fruit I have each day). I should go back and read the book for what to expect for side effects with this program. It's hard for me to tell if these are just part of my overall health condition or are new symptoms because I've changed my eating habits this past week.
Maisie was at it again last night with the gate, and I had to pee a few times, so once again, I didn't get much sleep. Hello headache, not so nice to have you again. Took meds and Tylenol with 8oz. water around 8am.
Breakfast at 9:00 - ground turkey with sauteed apples in coconut oil, cinnamon, and nutmeg. 6oz. water.
Clemyjontri Park for lunch around 12:00 and playtime today -- it was HOT! I ate two hard-boiled eggs, a cucumber, half an avocado, a handful of grapes, five cooked baby carrots, and 20oz. water.
4:00 -- need a pick-me-up...so tired! Had a handful of sprouted pumpkin seeds for a snack.
4:15-5:15 - napping on and off while kids played...couldn't keep my eyes open; major ulcer/gastritis pains; lack of appetite; headache - what is going on?
Dinner at 6:30 - forced myself to eat a couple pieces of broccoli, 2oz. grilled steak, and five grilled scallops with 16oz. water (I may not be hungry, but I am thirsty!).
9:30...neck is aching but the headache has subsided. Still not hungry, though. I wonder if I'm going through a low blood sugar thing? I mean, I am eating dramatically less sugar (none except for the little fruit I have each day). I should go back and read the book for what to expect for side effects with this program. It's hard for me to tell if these are just part of my overall health condition or are new symptoms because I've changed my eating habits this past week.
Sunday, September 1, 2013
Day6
Oooph, last night was even worse then the night before bathroom-visit-wise. 12am, 1, 2, 4, 4:30, 5:15, and 7:30. What the heck? Was it the tomatoes? As usual, I did not drink a single thing after dinner. Needless to say, had a headache all night and this morning. I did manage to sneak in some more sleep between 7:45-9:45am after I took my morning meds with 8oz. water. Not hungry when I woke up...still not, and it's 11:00! Need to make myself eat something though.
Brunch - 3 scrambled eggs with diced red pepper and scallions; naval orange; 16oz. water
Working on Falling for the Story reading invitations for a couple of hours...
Lunch at 1:45 - baked and shredded chicken breast with homemade mayo on bibb lettuce; a few pieces of cauliflower; 10oz. coconut milk
Finished up FFTS stuff...snack at 3:30 - a Granny Smith apple and supps with 8oz. water.
Rest from 4-5pm.
Dinner - grilled pork tenderloin with a side of sauteed broccoli, mushrooms, onion, garlic, and tomatoes. 8oz. water.
Headache all day...finally took some Tylenol around dinnertime, but it's 9:30, and I still feel just as yucky. It feels like dehydration, yet I know I am hydrated because my urine is clear. Could it just be a lack of sleep headache? I get these pretty much every day, and I haven't slept through the night in a year. Coincidence?
Speaking of, it was Labor Day weekend last year that this health rollercoaster began. I should probably do a recap post just to get it all out there in a timeline. Who knew I'd still be dealing with this crap a year later?
Brunch - 3 scrambled eggs with diced red pepper and scallions; naval orange; 16oz. water
Working on Falling for the Story reading invitations for a couple of hours...
Lunch at 1:45 - baked and shredded chicken breast with homemade mayo on bibb lettuce; a few pieces of cauliflower; 10oz. coconut milk
Finished up FFTS stuff...snack at 3:30 - a Granny Smith apple and supps with 8oz. water.
Rest from 4-5pm.
Dinner - grilled pork tenderloin with a side of sauteed broccoli, mushrooms, onion, garlic, and tomatoes. 8oz. water.
Headache all day...finally took some Tylenol around dinnertime, but it's 9:30, and I still feel just as yucky. It feels like dehydration, yet I know I am hydrated because my urine is clear. Could it just be a lack of sleep headache? I get these pretty much every day, and I haven't slept through the night in a year. Coincidence?
Speaking of, it was Labor Day weekend last year that this health rollercoaster began. I should probably do a recap post just to get it all out there in a timeline. Who knew I'd still be dealing with this crap a year later?
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