I had decided to do something for myself when my oldest daughter graduated high school. You see, getting her to graduate was one of the toughest challenges I've ever faced. She would sleep for up to 16 hours per day and still be exhausted. She wouldn't do homework, was so unorganized, seemed unmotivated and detached. I used every ounce of my being to get her to do her work, turn in assignments, study for exams and it was exhausting, stressful and emotional. The many, many doctors I took her to see all said she was fine. I decided these were the dreaded teen years I had been warned of from parents with older children. When she finally graduated, I joined a crossfit gym, although I was thoroughly intimidated and had never done any physical activity in my life, including school sports. The hour long sessions would take my mind off everyone and everything and it was great therapy!
My new gym hosted a 6 week paleo challenge. I had never heard of paleo and decided to sign up. We were told to eat natural foods, mainly vegetables, meats, limited fruits, berries and nuts, omitting processed foods, sugar, dairy, legumes, wheat products... I was amazed with the results after the 6 weeks were done! I lost inches everywhere, 7 pounds but my most impressive number was the 6 inches I lost off my waist! It was better than any lyposuction procedure without the cost!
Being the main cook at home, I fed my family paleo during the challenge because let's face it, I wasn't going to make separate meals for everyone. They actually seemed to enjoy the healthier meals and said they felt satisfied without feeling overly full. My husband dropped 24 pounds during the challenge! Before I knew it, my oldest daughter, now enrolled in her first semester of community college began "coming to". Her grades improved, she was more responsive, energetic and alert. It was as if were were watching a miracle! She started getting straight As and participating in family and college activities. She took a particular liking to nutrition and yoga and eventually ended up gratiating with High Honors. We found out during this process she had Celiac disease and the gluten was affecting her cerebrally instead of the more common digestional issues.
Paleo promotes gut health, less inflamation within the body, fat burning and much more which in turn yields awesome results, not just in weight but in overall health. I've taught many people this lifestyle and have seen autoimmune diseases put in check, people no longer needing medications for diabetes, high blood pressure, cholesterol... I've seen gut issues put in check, acne issues clear up and the list goes on! It can truly be a lifesaver, as it has been for our family!
If you've never tried paleo, you owe it to yourself to give it a 4 week try (30 days!). You'll be glad you did! I will be happy to forward you an information packet if you send me a request to aligrado@outlook.com. Best wishes on whichever challenge you decide to pursue. I'll be sending good vibes for love and health to all! -Alice