Day One
Getting Ready for "The Beach"
I have to admit it ... the most challenging part of the days leading up to starting this diet was cleaning out the kitchen of all those "bad carbs".
Foods that are off-limits during the first two weeks of this plan (Phase 1) are just that: totally off-limits. Seeing that those forbidden foods are some of my favorites, I'm a little concerned.
Foods I had to give the boot include:
- bread
- chips
- pasta
- rice
- honey
- yogurt
- milk
- cereal
... and lots more. The reason I'm worried is I'm going "cold turkey" on a lot of things I usually eat daily. My cabinets are now virtually bare as is the fridge (save a few fresh veggies, egg substitute and a chicken breast).
Changing Gears
I've been a semi-low-fat, portion control, calorie-cutting gal for about the last eight years. It's how I've slowly, but steadily, lost the weight I've lost and kept it off. Foods like pasta and rice are staples for me.
But, I am determined to stay out of panic mode and instead ... I'm going shopping (doesn't that always cure anxiety?).
My SBD-friendly shopping trip went rather smoothly. Using the foods to enjoy list as guidelines I stocked up on stuff like nuts, olive oil, reduced-fat cheese, eggs, and tomato juice. Not my usual fare, but most are foods I do quite enjoy.
Eating at "The Beach"
10 a.m.
I am really happy that the SBD allows you a snack. The veggies/egg substitute omelette I had this morning was tasty, but it didn't stay with me very long.
My snack was a controlled portion of almonds. They gave me a good burst of energy and were quite filling.
Noon
Lunch is a salad and I'm hunting for a dressing with three grams of sugar or less per serving. (I forgot that at the grocery store.) It's slim pickings around the office (the mini fridge left much to be desired), so I end up eating my salad without any dressing. Boy, iceberg lettuce is bland.
4 p.m.
This afternoon has been kind of tough, because I'm used to having an apple or banana about now. All fruit is off-limits during the first phase of this plan, which kind of bugs me. But, considering the explanation Dr. Agatston provides in the book, it would do me far more harm than good if I indulge.
7 p.m.
Dinner was a chicken breast and another salad and I've finally rounded up some dressing. I would have killed for a nice little helping of brown rice with it, though. But Dr. Agatston promises carb cravings will subside in time so I'm hoping that happens soon.
Maybe tomorrow will be easier ... here's hoping!
