Lean Out Challenge Update

A few words of advice for the ‘Lean-Out Challenge’ from Trainer Ariana Dalton
 
So, you are a couple weeks in and we hope you are feeling great!  The first week was probably rough, you were low on energy, missing some comfort foods, and likely very hungry.  If you have been diligent, you should be in the groove mentally and feeling better as a result of your clean eats!  If you have fallen ‘off the wagon’ here and there – it’s time to re-focus and remember why you are doing this.  The reasons are different for everyone, but looking and feeling better are probably on the list – so get to it!!
 
In an effort to keep you motivated and focused, we wanted to share some additional tips:
 
Q: Feeling hungry?
A: This is very normal when you make changes to your nutrition, hang in and your stomach will adjust.  Ensure you are getting enough calories.  Eat more protein and veggies.  Try drinking tea or other warm beverages; this should help to satiate you.
 
Q: Will eating strict Paleo achieve my goal? 
A: Yes, Paleo is generally going to work vs. the modern day ‘western diet’ loaded with crap.  But, remember that for weight loss, you need to burn more calories that you consume.  So be aware of how much you are eating.  If you have yet to see a difference in your physique, think about weighing / measuring your food.
 
Q: I’m getting bored with the same foods, help?
A:  Learn to love grocery shopping!  Load up on all sorts of fresh produce and experiment with new recipes.  I have a couple of vegetable cookbooks and when I get tired of salad, I whip up something new!  Herbs and spices – need I say more!  These will help you continue to enjoy variety and they make everything taste better.  I seem to put crushed red pepper in just about everything.
 
Q:  What do I eat when I am out of the house?
A:  If you haven’t already, please get a cooler and bring your food with you.  This is the only way to know exactly what you are putting in your body.  Ice packs and Tupperware were invented for this purpose.  Otherwise, make smart decisions.  Living / working in the NYC area means you have a lot of choices.  Grab boiled eggs and fruit for breakfast, make your own salad at a deli and ask for lemon juice and olive oil for dressing.  Out at a restaurant?  Ask your sever to modify your order by doubling up on veggies, skipping the bread basket and dessert menu.  Most places are happy to accommodate your needs so get up the nerve and ask!
 
Q:  If I keep a little ‘fill in the blank’ in my diet, will that impact my goals?
A: That depends on what you chose to leave in and how much you consume.  While it is optimal to rid your nutrition plan of all junk for this time, it may not be realistic for all of you.  If you must have a packet of Splenda in your morning coffee, but have cut out all other sugar, grains, dairy, and other junk, then it will probably not have a profound impact on your progress.  However, if you simply cannot give up that can of soda every day (yes, even diet) with your lunch, or the weekly ‘pizza binge’ that is another story.  Calorically, it could wreak havoc on your body and your goals.  
 
With that said, re-energize and get to work!  We will post another update before the Thanksgiving with some tips on making it through the Holidays without sabotaging all your hard work.