It’s Saturday morning. I’ve already gone to the post office, two banks, Lowe’s, and Publix. I’ve researched further the treatment of green hair algae in our saltwater tanks, made breakfast, replaced the chain switch in the ceiling fan, packed up and stowed all 30 tons of Christmas crap up in the crawl space (not really an exaggeration as it’s thirteen large boxes and I believe the ceiling has lowered three inches from the weight), put all the gym equipment back on the lanai (been in garage since before Christmas), repaired both of Dylan’s bicycle tires, started wash, got a load of dishes going, and finally showered. It’s only 11AM!
Redbull? Five Hour Shots? Coffee overload? Illegal substances? None of the above!
I attribute it all to lifestyle changes that started back at the beginning of June 2013. It’s no secret that I’ve battled chronic sinus problems for many years of which was managed by Dayquil, Nyquil, Aleve, Ibuprofen, over the counter allergy medications, and prescribed sprays and pills. Needless to say, I was fed up with taking this crap! I hate pills in general! Right about the time family was visiting for graduation I was already doing lots of reading on health, diet, our corrupt food system, and our backwards health system. I was already trying to “eat” better (or so I thought). The fact was, I was way off the mark. Since then I have started to slowly implement changes in my diet and general well-being.
Now its February 2014, almost 8 months later and roughly five weeks into my healthy New Year and I can honestly say I can’t remember when I felt better. So what did I do? Well, for starters, I read and become more informed. I’ve learned more about where my diet was coming from, what my body wanted, and what my body COULD NOT process properly. I’ve been off all soda type products for 37 months, consume minimal high fructose corn syrup, a very low percentage of processed foods, almost nothing that comes in a box or container pre-made. I limit my gluten intake as well as am mindful of my glycemic index intake. I drink a lot of water, minimal coffee, minimal brewed tea, almost nothing sold in a gas station, a good dose of coconut water daily, and brewed organic teas. I’ve learned to read labels, learned about GMO’s and try to avoid them, learned about Organic certification and what Organic really means and try to buy Organic whenever possible. I consume tablespoons daily of pure, unfiltered, uncooked, and organic if possible, local honey. I’ve also reduced my intake of dairy (cow’s milk is for baby COWS).
Probably the biggest step I’ve taken, though, and of which is probably the biggest contributor to my overall increased health and energy has been consuming almost 70% raw and organic (if possible) produce daily. And not just lettuce, tomatoes, and fatty dressing, either. I’m talking apples, pears, peaches, cranberries, pomegranate, black berries, strawberries, blueberries, bananas, kiwi, avacado, pineapple, spinach, baby greens, kale, ginger root, lemons, limes, oranges, tomatoes of all kinds, all colors of peppers, cucumbers, radishes, carrots, celery, onions of all types, garlic, cilantro, other fresh herbs, grapes, squash, etc etc etc. I start every day with Matcha and/or organic green tea with honey and a large smoothie made with coconut water, spinach, kale, turmeric, flax seed, and a healthy mix of fruit on hand with about 8 oz of Organic plain greek yogurt. After that, it’s a mix of hand fruit (apples, bananas, peaches, etc) and a large salad for my meals between breakfast and dinner. Best part of all, I still have burgers (minus the bun), steak, chicken, fish, and even the occasional pizza. Yes, I do have to cook every night and it usually takes longer than a microwave meal but I’m here to tell you I FEEL GREAT and don’t feel like I’m on a diet.
In the process, we have reduced our garbage by half, recycle more, and best of all NO MEDICATIONS since June 2013. Not even a ibuprofen! Yes, I still eat out occasionally and yes I still eat some junk but I’ve learned how to read those labels, read those menus, and ask questions so I can make the healthiest choices.
Yes, we bought a Juicer and a Nutri-bullet that is used daily. Organic is more expensive and cooking is time-consuming. But, how much is ibuprofen, prescription drugs, Nyquil, doctor visits and all the associated costs that go with it cost?
All I can say is #FeelingGoodIn2014! Have a great day!
