So what is this blog all about?
This is the online documentation of my transformation from a pasta loving, Diet Coke sipping, major sweet tooth having chick, to a fit and fab paleonista. In all honesty, its mainly a safety net against my major lack of self control. Hopefully publicly announcing my dietary plans will keep me honest when faced with temptation and serve as a creative outlet when cravings arise.What exactly IS Paleo?
Paleo, also known as the "Primal" or "Caveman" diet, is based on the concept of eating like our Paleolithic (hunters and gatherers) ancestors. I like to look at it as getting back to the basics. Meat, veggies, fruits and nuts make up the majority of the diet, combined with healthy fats and oils. On the "NO" list are all grains, most dairy, and legumes. So the sad news is that a lot of my favorites are being tossed out and being replaced by some of my not so favorites (see blog title). The good news is that hopefully the sacrifice will result in a healthier, happier me.Why Paleo?
With the hundreds of different weight lose/nutrition plans out there, some of you may be wondering WHY I would choose Paleo. First off, I need to say that I am NOT an expert. I have done a lot of research on my own and Paleo makes the most sense for me. Secondly, I should tell you all a little about me. I have an autoimmune disease known as Crohns. Autoimmune diseases are all characterized by the bodies immune system attacking the body. Crohns specifically applies to an autoimmune disease in the gut. I started having syptoms when I was twelve, but it wasnt until I was 16 that I finally got a diagnosis. Crohns and other autoimmune diseases are brutal and their side affects can be devastating. Even worse than the disease is the realization that so little is really known and understood about these conditions. After years of dealing with doctors and specialists, I began looking for answers outside of traditional western medicine. What I have come to understand over the years is that autoimmune diseases are "modern diseases", whose rise in occurrence directly correlates with the move in our diet from whole foods to processed, sugar filled foods. What attracted me to Paleo was the documented relief that this dietary style offers to those who suffer from autoimmune disorders. I could go into detail about the science, but like I said, I am not an expert. There are a lot of great resources out there, and I hope that you will take the time to read up on it.Why Now?
Simply put: Im sick and tired of being sick and tired. I've had enough of being limited by disease, bad habits and my own inaction. Im ready to make 2013 the year that I reclaim my life and my health. How about you? Are you ready to make changes in your life? Whether you are only thinking about making positive changes, you are already implementing good habits, or are just looking for a little inspiration, I hope you stick around!
Meg
