In June, several of us on my swim team went on the whole 30 diet. My wife has dieted with good results several times, but I’d always resisted because I was in “good enough shape.”
This diet basically meant no carbs except fruits and vegetables, no sugar (including alcohol), no dairy, and a lot of protein. I love chocolate, pop, ice cream, and my shot of whiskey most nights.
June 1 I weighed myself. 228 lbs. Not bad, considering my 6’3″ frame, but more than I realized.
The first week was tough as I adjusted. I was ravenously hungry for the first time in my life, having never fasted. I was dead in the water halfway through workout. I was craving everything I couldn’t have. I persevered, however, knowing it was for only a month. Three more weeks of eating all this green stuff did seem like an eternity.
My body started to adjust in week 2, especially as I learned that an occasional handful of nuts could curb my appetite. My jawline started to narrow and I noticed more room in my jeans. I could finish workouts, but I had absolutely no speed. However, I had to move to the next notch on my belt, so that was very encouraging.
In week 3, I finally found second gear in the pool. My bad cravings were mostly for rice. Thank God for potatoes!!!! I was looking forward to salads. I learned how to make really tasty and filling salads!
June 30 finally arrived. I was hoping to be under 220. The scale read 212. I’d lost 16 lbs in 4 weeks! I also had gained another notch on my belt. My wife said I rarely snored anymore, and my internal plumbing had noticeably improved.My speed in the pool was back almost to normal.
I binged a bit the first few days of July and was surprised at how awful candy tastes, especially the chemical coating on M&Ms or Reeses Pieces. The thought of eating at a fast food restaurant is now gross. Pop? Makes me cringe. Salads? I can’t wait for the next one!
The binge was minor, but I felt awful. Not because I’d gone off the diet, but because I felt bloated and the plumbing issues were returning.
Two days ago, I got back on the whole 30 diet, or a modified version anyways. I’m eating brown rice, enjoying my whiskey, and treating myself to the occasional sweet, but I’m perfectly content if I never have another piece of chocolate. Unbelievable, but true.
So, if I become obnoxious and campaign for you to start eating organic, non-processed foods, I apologize ahead of time, but I pray you’ll understand that I do so because I truly care about you and want the best for you.
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