So here it is......week 2 of Paleo for Athletes....not as bad as I thought but waiting for my body to fully adjust to getting it's energy from just protein and fat. Day two was brutal! With no carbs in my body...I struggled a bit with my intense workout. I took more breaks and fatigued a lot faster BUT...my mind was a lot stronger and I pushed through to make the week happen! Like research has stated...the first couple of weeks (2-3) are the hardest. Our body and mind are so used to carbs being the main source of fuel, that as soon as it's gone.....both are mind and body fatigue. I'll tell ya now...your mind definitely has to be strong and your determination to reach your goal has to be your main fuel. Mine is and here I am still following it.
First three days was an adjustment. Because of the intensity of my workouts I'm trying my best to stay at 1900 calories. As of last Thursday....I'm pretty darn close landing between 1700-1860. Incorporating more good fats such as avocado, olive and canola oils has helped tremendously as well as incorporating the much needed high glycemic fruits before and after my workouts. Furthermore, I have increased my lean protein intake to about 4-6 oz a meal (where I would try to keep it at 3oz). Week 2...I'm feeling a lot better than last week but still not at 100% but I KNOW I will be soon.
I've also really liked eating this way. My mind has been the one to tell me I need carbs, but all I do is self correct and it's back to Paleo eating! Have been surrounded by so much temptation this last week, but my self control and "eye on the prize mentality" has kept me on path. So what I've learned:
Paleo for Athletes eliminates any vinegar based food/condiment...vinegar has wheat!!! I had no idea!!! Recovery drink is HIGHLY recommended by Paleo for Athlete experts as this will help recovery time be shorter and muscle repair faster. High glycemic fruits and dried fruits are only to be consumed before and/or after a workout to help replace lost nutrients. Anything soy is also not allowed. Eating like this....NOT AS BAD AS I THOUGHT IT WOULD BE lol!! And...it's not as hard as I thought it would be to eat just lean protein, fruits, veggies, and good fats...they are everywhere and I choose to keep eating this way! Can't wait to see what else happens. Whether it's my mind or what...I am starting to see my mid section shred..woot woot....let's go Paleo..what else ya got ;p
I really want to get on the Paleo mindset once I move into my new place. Currently everything kitchen wise is packed up, so I've been sticking to simple meals that don't require much cooking like eating veggies and fruits, but I admit I'll have sandwich thins turkey sandwich. Need to break away from bread completely so that will be my first goal!
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