Whole30: Results

We did it! Nick and I completed 30 days of no alcohol, sugar, grains, dairy, or legumes. BOOM!

Although I didn't do the Whole30 for strictly weight loss, it happened. And it feels great to say that. But because that isn't half as important as the other benefits/non scale victories,  we'll do that later.

Overall Results:

• High energy! No more crashing during the day, no more '2:30 feeling', just consistent level energy. I feel more productive and patient with my students and around the house with my love. This has been the biggest eye-opener for me. I absolutely love how I feel eating this way, cannot imagine going back to the way it was.

• I now know what it feels like to be hungry and to be satisfied. My brain and my stomach communicate again. 

• My thoughts and emotions are very clear. This is hard to describe, but I feel more in tune with my feelings. I am communicating more clearly. I can handle stress with a more level head. PMS was still there, but half as strong. In the same sense, my joy is greater too. I've always felt happiness but it just seems to be more often and more genuine throughout the day. This is my number 1 reason why i will continue eating this way as much as possible..Having level emotions and being in tune with your body is priceless and SO worth going without a few things.

• Minimal menstrual cramping. This is huge for me.

• I'm actually excited to continue eating this way. Never thought that would happen.

• Amazing sleep. No more watching TV to 'help me fall asleep'. I go to bed, lay my head down and I'm out. Waking up in the morning is easier too (still hate going to the gym in the AM though).

• No bloating! No sickening "full" feeling after meals.

• Skin is clear and soft. 

• No more 'needing' something sweet after every meal. Not even fruit (okay, sometimes fruit.)

• Shorts that were tight last summer, fit well now. Clothes fit better overall now, woo!

• Hair is soft, only use conditioner every few days, and it holds a curl now (Silly, but true).

• I still miss having an occasional treat, but I don't need chocolate as much as I used to. Saying no is no big deal now.

• And because I wasn't allowed to weigh myself for 30 days, Food/the scale were no longer my greatest obsession. Once the difficult days were over, it became routine. I began feeling better and eating this way just became habit. I couldn't weigh myself so I had to trust that whole foods (and lots of them) were best for me. Most of all, I had to trust that I am fearfully and wonderfully made and if the God of the universe loves me, then nothing on that damn scale should change my  focus. 

Let me tell you, its NOT over for me. Towards the end, I began dreading today as I knew that scale would be available and I know the games I like to play (like eating something bad for me, jumping on the scale the next day and letting that control the outcome of my day). As great as this experience has been, it has shown me just how huge this stronghold is on me. It has shown me that no matter how many Whole30's I successfully complete, I am just as likely to go back to my own ways..putting food and scale back in control. The only way I'll beat this demon is to consistently give up control to God and rely on his strength and grace every single day. As we are in the middle of Holy Week, I am so grateful for the resurrection of Jesus as it is through Him that I can have life, a second chance, forgiveness every single time I screw up. Although I see this Whole30 as a victory and huge accomplishment, I know the journey ahead of me is long.

That being said.. tonight I am taking a hammer to my scale. This girl has inspired me to do that. Check out her instagram..she explains why this is important better than I ever could.

I am so grateful for this experience. For the way it has brought my Husband and I closer. For the way it has forced me to face my difficulties. For everything I have learned. For the fresh breath of air it has breathed into my relationship with God.

Total Pounds Lost: 6.5lbs
Total Inches: 10inches overall

**Just want to say thank you everyone who has reached out to me since my first post. I was am in awe of all of the encouragement and support..and the number of people who have said "I'm the same way". Know that when I said I'm praying for you, I really am. Thanks for the all the love!