I have not written in a couple weeks because I have been super-busy with grading and work. Well, today, I finally hit “submit” on final grades and I can breathe a little easier! Since the last time I wrote, I’ve done a bunch of home workouts, tried to get outside as much as possible, and start a new elimination diet.
I’ve actually grocery-shopped twice since the last time I wrote, so I’ll share both hauls! I try to make sure that what I’m buying will last two to three weeks since I am avoiding grocery stores. For the most part, this has worked well, although I was disappointed that fresh green beans I got from Aldi went bad in three days–that’s another reason I try to always have frozen veggies around.
I finally got to see a holistic naturopath–I’ve been wanting to see one for months, but I wanted to make sure I was getting all the necessary conventional tests done first. This doctor has a 17-page patient intake form, and I feel like she really listened to all I had to say about my symptoms. Although I’ve been feeling better than I was, I am still not feeling “normal,” and I want to work to get to optimal thyroid health. So, she suggested a few supplements and an elimination diet for four weeks. As of Monday, I’ve cut out soy, peanuts, dairy, gluten, sugar, wheat, and grains. I’m mostly eating whole foods like fruits and vegetables, and the only protein I am eating is fish and occasional chicken or turkey.
It’s crazy how many of those things are in the food I eat often. For example, I can’t eat those salmon burgers pictured for the next four weeks because they have wheat. So, it’s definitely a challenge and I’m only on the second day, but I’m determined to make it through. I think my sweet tooth is suffering the most! I am going to try and make some grain-free, dairy-free lemon muffins with almond flour, applesauce, coconut oil, lemon juice and zest, and a little cinnamon and vanilla. Once the four weeks are up, I can slowly introduce foods to see if they are problematic. Although I have significantly cut gluten and dairy the past six months, I have gotten a little lax, so I’m hoping this helps.
Some of the things I’ve been eating for lunch are things like salads, veggies, and avocado toast on gluten-free bread. Dinners have been things like soup made with bone broth and veggies or fish with complex carbs and green veggies or subs for gluten and dairy. By the way, I finally got a new phone. and it’s the newest iPhone with the “best” camera, so hopefully my photos will really improve!
My doctor seems to think some of my problems are hormonal, and I am determined to balance them and feel my best. It is so awesome that someone finally suggested a hormone problem. I mentioned it to my male doctor and he immediately said no since I wasn’t menopausal…okay, dude. Anyway, I spent the weekend eating some of the things I knew I’d be giving up, especially peanut butter and chocolate! I made homemade Perfect Bars and dark chocolate peanut clusters. They were low-carb and delicious! I also made a delightful mocktail with orange tea, sparkling water, and lemon.
My workouts have been consistent, but I think I am going to start spending more time stretching and attempting to meditate each day. I want to improve my sleep and overall physical wellness, too. I’ve posted a few of my workouts on Instagram: @breeannaliving, so check them out if you need a new routine!
Other than lots of grading, some walks and drive through the woods, and working on my health, I’ve been reading and playig some cooking games on my phone to decompress. I liked to spend time with my pup, too!
Well, this was just a quick post to check in! As I sign off, I am about to go attempt some dairy-free mac and cheese with broccoli and chicken nuggets breaded with olive oil, almond flour, and spices. I’ll share next week. Have a good one!
Breeanna Living Brilliantly 