Well, lets say it's been awhile yet again.
The results of the Paleo Experiment were fabulous. I felt strength and energy along with running faster. The only thing that hit was time and school began. The stress load of parent teacher conferences and grades left me in the dust and feeling worn down and not strong enough to stick with what I had started. Then an injury hit, then illness struck knocking me down even more.
However, in all of that I decided to take it to my advantage. Being injured and sick allowed me to read more and ponder ideas once again on health. I developed a battle plan to get me back on track and combat my weak areas.
Introducing the Flex PLAN
This plan I developed is a plan that works for me. You can take the same approach, but make it your own. I took a deep look at the habits I was wanting to break and began to look at them differently and not as strict. I developed a reward system for myself. Here's how it looks. Because of my back ground I eat very healthy foods, so that is not a problem area for me. These are the areas I struggle with and the things I enjoy about eating are still included.
Your day really starts the night before so here is
Step 1
If I don't snack or eat when standing and preparing dinner = Shake for after 8pm or plain yogurt with blueberries. (This is motivation to not eat while preparing food and just to eat what is served. Allowing the shake or plain yogurt after 8pm doesn't make me feel deprived or rule laden as in the past.)
Step 2
If I only eat the designated snack in the middle of the night = I can eat whatever I want in the morning and while standing. (Sometimes, I just want to eat whatever I want and do it while milling around in the kitchen. Allowing this in the morning gives carbs time to digest and get used correctly. In the mornings you're less likely to binge eat as well)
Step 3
If I drink 8oz x 3 before lunch = organic chocolate bits for dessert at lunch
(I hate drinking water sometimes, but this gives me extra motivation)
Step 4
If I drink 8oz x 3 before my snack = 1/2 a protein bar as a treat ( I absolutely love protein bars, however they really aren't that healthy for you. Real food is better and gets you full. Usually after a protein bar I still want another one. They are also expensive.)
Step 5
If I eat all protein after lunch through the evening and stop when full = Starbucks in the morning
(Okay, paying attention to my body in this area is mega hard for me. I've always been one that just keeps on eating even if I'm full. This is a major habit I want to break so I made the reward really high)
Step 6
If I drink hot water with lime or lemon = flavored drink ( I love the True Lemon powdered drinks at wal-mart. They are sweetened with stevia and taste yummy, however drinking hot water with lime or lemon is super good for you and will get your insides on the right track along with helping your metabolism speed up)
I will keep you updated with how it's working. Let me know if you try it as well and what your results are.
Have a fabulous Week!!
