Monday, October 14, 2013

Do Something Crazy...

You'd think after five rounds of this I wouldn't crave sweets/sugar/shit in general. That would be false. I'm one of those people that always has to have a goal, or else I will fall off whatever wagon I'm currently riding. After sugar detox round five, I did well for about a month afterwards. Then one Hail Merry Miracle Tart led to a jar of almond butter, cacao truffles, and chocolate covered everything. The time has come, the walrus said.

Sixth times a charm? It's always nice when people message me about the sugar detox, and especially when they want to join me. I feel that if you know there is someone to fall back on for support, it makes a challenge just a tad easier.

That being said, this will be a lengthy post because it lays out the basics of the 21DSD (21 Day Sugar Detox). This program was originally created by Diane Sanfilippo, who has conveniently written a 21DSD guide with recipes, tips/tricks, and really, everything you need to be successful. Her shit is great, and if you would like to spend a few dollars for a much more in-depth experience, head on over to her website, which is right here.

So here it is. 21 days without sugar, grains, dairy, legumes, or anything else that is shit in your system. This includes ALL sugars (so don't ask about those "natural" ones, either). Simply put, sugar in the body keeps insulin levels rising and falling, leading to cravings for more sugar, leading to obesity.

I'm not a doctor, go to Google and type in Insulin Cycle. It's a thing.

Anywho, the question most people usually ask is "What CAN I eat?" Thank goodness, there's a website for that too. Click here.

You can also find recipes by typing "21 Day Sugar Detox" into your favorite search engine. It's really that easy. The detox is set up into three levels. The first level is for those who have never detoxed before. It allows for more variety as your body gets accustomed to dropping sugar. The second level allows less wiggle room, and the third level is where I sit, eating cardboard with my water.

I won't lie, it's not easy the first time. Days 3-7 you'll most likely feel sick, have a throbbing headache, and want to kill someone. If you can make it past the first week, you have succeeded.

There are also variations to this detox. Since a healthy diet is also usually combined with some form of exercise, a couple of exceptions have been made for athletes. (I'm sorry, but 30 minutes of walking around a day does NOT count). Weightlifters, crossfitters, and anyone that keeps their heart rate above 145 for an hour a day may consume 1/2 a sweet potato per day (preferably post workout) to refill glycogen stores and function as an athlete. Non-athletes, do not fret. Everyone is allowed a GREEN TIPPED banana or one green apple per day. (Green fruits contain less sugar than the others)

Today marks my day 1. This morning I lifted heavy chest and triceps, and will be returning for a spinning session. I'm currently experimenting with HFLC (High fat low carb) so my meals today will be as follows:

Meal 1: Two chicken sausages with olive oil
Meal 2: Two whole eggs, almond butter, yellow squash
Meal 3: Turkey breast, one egg, broccoli
Meal 4: Salmon filet, One egg, zucchini

I don't typically snack during the 21 DSD (or ever) but everyone has their own needs, find what works. Drink as much water as you can handle, and find something to pray to.

Best wishes on your journey,
Manda

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