Clean Eating Adventures

With the wedding a short 32 days away and FCAT over, we decided to start hitting the gym harder and change our consumption habits. We are newbies at this, so errors will be made, we know that, but we're trying and it's a huge life change for us, so that's really what matters at this point. We're going to the gym for 45-60 minutes every morning at 5:15 or 5:30ish. I can't explain the relief I feel when I leave school in the afternoon and I don't feel the pressure of having to go to the gym or guilty if my day was too rough and I want to relax. I actually feel less tired getting up at 5 than when we sleep in until 6:30. It would be wonderful if that is something that sticks :)

Yesterday was day 1 and it was certainly a challenge. I didn't realize how much sugar I unconsciously consume throughout the day. A little candy here and there.. just one of the dangers of being a teacher! Yesterday, I managed to completely refrain, and it was rough. I was definitely having withdrawals and I was pretty cranky. I'm hoping day 2 is better.

Here's what's on the food agenda today:
I had a chocolate whey protein shake for breakfast, mixed with unsweetened almond milk (suggested by my very healthy friend, Katie). It was actually really good. We wanted to start moderately priced on the whey, so we got the Publix Greenwise and it's pretty good. We'll probably start exploring more options if the protein shakes stick.

I've realized a big part of eating clean is commitment and planning. "If you fail to plan, you plan to fail!" This seems especially difficult for me considering I'm in a classroom all day with no refrigerator.. talk about challenging.. so I've have to plan ahead. Here is today's lunchbox...
Clockwise from L to R: nonfat greek yogurt with cut strawberries and honey; apples with 1 tsp of natural ground peanut butter; 1 tbl sun-dried tomato hummus with 1/4 cup organic carrot sticks; leftover chicken from last night's dinner.

I'm not sure in which order I'll consume or if I'll be able to even eat everything, but I like having options!

Also, I'm drinking Dr. Oz's Weight-orade, which is basically green tea with tangerine slices, instead of coffee this morning and water is the plan for the rest of the day. luckily I make the switch from Diet Coke to water in January.. Can you imagine, sugar and white starch withdrawal AND a Diet Coke withdrawal? Yikes!

Wish me luck!