Yesterday was the last day of the challenge…sort of. Though my trainer did challenge me to 10 days, I’m planning on keeping this going as much as possible. 🙂 I will be eating pretty clean but will incorporate Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, and of course, beer back into my diet, but all in moderation. I’m going to rid myself of the sugary “fat-free”, “low-fat”, “100 calorie” snacks that I’ve been consuming for years. I haven’t eaten these items, or any processed sugar for 11 days now and I really don’t miss them. I haven’t had one sugar craving since starting the challenge. I’m pleasantly surprised.

So how much weight total did I lose during the challenge? My starting weight on Monday was 146lbs. Today (11 days later) I weigh 139.4lbs. That’s almost 7lbs in 11 days!!! Please remember that these results ARE NOT TYPICAL!!! I went at my own pace and having once been a vegetarian and Weight Watchers member, this challenge came a lot easier for me. My experience as a vegetarian and from Weight Watchers came in very handy. I was strict in what I are and drank. NO processed food, NO processed sugar, NO alcohol. I didn’t cheat once and for that I’m truly proud of myself! I feel lighter physically and emotionally. My workouts are much easier and more energetic. My mood is much more positive.

This challenge taught me quite a bit. I was reminded of the importance of eating small meals throughout the day instead of 3 large meals. I ate heavier during the day and a bit lighter at night. I was reminded of the importance of hydration. Just water all day long not only flushed out my system but it also helped with my energy levels. I learned that my eating natural sugar that’s found in fruit and veggies, that my sweet tooth is almost nonexistent. I learned to trust my hunger signals and eat when I was hungry, and pass when I wasn’t. I learned I’m stronger than I usually give myself credit for.

What’s next? I continue on my journey by “keeping to the code.” I plan to change this challenge into a permanent lifestyle. My journey is faaaaarrrrr from over. I have said in previous posts, my journey will never end. I need to stick with this lifestyle until I take my last breath (which will hopefully be when I’m 110yrs old!).

****AGAIN, IF YOU PLAN ON TRYING THIS CHALLENGE OR ANY DIET CHANGE, PLEASE TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR FIRST!!!****

Liz