60 Days to Sexy: Regular Healthy Diet/Conclusion

Hey guys...here I am with the conclusion of my 60 Days to Sexy diet/weight-loss challenge (late...sorry. Had stuff goin' on). Oh where do I begin...???

If you're not familiar with my 60 Days to Sexy personal fitness "challenge", then you can go back through my previous posts & catch up!

Let me start off by saying that I had a projected weight-loss goal of 20-25 pounds. AAAANNNDDD...I decided that I was going to accomplish this feat in 60 days. yep...60. Days. :-/

I, ladies & gentlemen did NOT lose 20 or 25 lbs. I lost weight, but not as much as I initially anticipated. 11 lbs to be precise. I think in my hastiness to whip it all back into shape, I neglected to take a few things into consideration. Like the fact that I'm not 18 anymore.

I am two kids in & my body has changed majorly over the past few years. Especially since having my son in 2012. I don't carry weight the same way I used to, my figure is completely different & my metabolism kinda started to suck. I also had developed some of the worst eating & sleeping habits possible.

Another thing I realized was that my environment & my will power had gotten into a full on knock-down-drag-out fist fight by the time I hit the final phase of my plan.

What do I mean by this? Well, way back before the kids & even when Lelah was a little baby consuming mostly milk & pureed...stuff, I didn't have all of the carbby snack-a-doodles hanging around my pantry waiting to be picked up by little fingers or tossed into lunch boxes. Now, my home is more often than not plagued by the carbby snack-a-doodles that Lelah begs for in the store, that I grab for her lunch/snacks.

And I, with much shame admit to having lazy, tired, hungry days where I opted to grab a twinkie, or a handful or cookies instead of fruit or a protein bar in between meals.

I also fell off on the exercising. Mainly  because I was just plain TIRED (recently discovered that I have a vitamin D deficiency, a symptom of which is chronic fatigue).

Anywho, the closer I got to the 60 day mark, I began to feel like I had officially hit the #FAIL button. But then I took everything into consideration & looked at my before & after photos. Eventhough I hadn't hit my overly ambitious target weight, I had made a ton of progress.

There wasn't a change in my weight from last time, so I just used the same pic again.

The cleanse did it's job, the vegan and vegetarian phases got me out of my crap-food rut & forced me to break some of my really bad eating habits, as well as incorporate more fresh foods. & eventhough I didn't stick to the plan 100%...it did work (to a degree).

Overall, I do think I could've met my goal if I HAD stuck to what I'd mapped out for myself. But, I'm happy with my result regardless. I did lose 11 pounds (Most of which seemed to be in my mid-section) & I was able to tighten up a bit!

As far as the physical fitness part, I didn't go to the gym, nor did I adhere to any insane workout program. I did the following exercises 3-6 days a week for at least 1 hour each session:

• Stretching/Yoga (beginner yoga of course)
• Stationary Bike Riding (15-30 min)
• Planking 
• Leg Raises
• Sit-ups
• Push-ups
• Pull-downs (on exercise machine)

And for the food (when I was behaving myself), I continued making most of the foods from the vegan/vegetarian phases. I simply added lean meats and fish!

I plan to continue trying to keep it together & once I've hit my target, I'll post an update. So stay tuned!

My Wish List: Spring/Summer 2014

With the warmer weather being right around the corner (still cold here in MI), I have been spending my free time lately searching around online & window shopping in between errands trying to figure out what I NEED in my life (fashion wise) this Spring/Summer.

I'm really feeling some of the current trends, but if you know me you know that I like to mix it up & wear pretty much whatever I think looks good...even if it's not necessarily "trending".

So, without further ado, here is my (somewhat long) wishlist of items that I HAVE to get my hands on this SS14:

Coral

I was somewhat skeptical of this trend when I first noticed it a couple of years ago. But lately, I'm really loving the shade. Maybe it's the fact that I've been seeing brighter more lively versions of the color as opposed to the more muted, salmony ones I had seen in the past.

What ever the case may be, I have fallen in love with this bright, happy, feminine, "springy" shade.

Mint/Seafoam

This color is just so young and fresh. It makes me think of Easter & it's one of those cool, easy breezy shades that just makes me feel calm.

White White

Not off white, not ivory, not cream. White.

For the longest I was into the dark colors, mainly black. But now, I feel a pull toward white. It's crisp, clean, beachy & I will be incorporating so much more of this color into my wardrobe.

Gold

Used to only be into silver, but now I know much better. I've really been into gold lately.

Asymmetrical Hem Lines

I really don't think I will ever let go of this look.

High Lows & Draped asymmetrical skirts can be feminine & sweet or edgy & sexy.

Minimalist Heels

These are simple, sleek & sexy. And I need them in every color.

Florals 

Not your grandmother's florals. I would love to rock this classic print in a romper, matching short set or a good sky high pair of heels.

The Knee High Gladiator

Thank you Kourtney Kardashian & Tom Ford for making me fall in love with this boot/sandal hybrid!

Depending on the style, these can be laid back boho or edgy vixenesque.

Barefoot Sandals!!!

These little gems are right up my ally as I really dislike wearing shoes in and around my house. I also see these as a must have for those vacation days at the beach.

Floral & Fruity Fragrances

These two...OMG. I first smelled a sample of the Vince Camuto Fiori a few months ago & was instantly hooked. And the RALPH by Ralph Lauren has been a fav of mine since high school. Both are the perfect balance of sweet and flowery. Perfect for Summer.

Body Chains

These add the perfect touch to swimwear or cropped tops. And if you're not about bearing the necessary skin to show off this piece of jewelry, you can absolutely throw this on top of your tank or dress for an instant style boost.

Look for these sexy accessories on the likes of Beyonce, Rihanna & Kaira.

Jumpsuits & Rompers

You can't go wrong with these. They can be fun & flirty or sophisticated & downright chic. These onesies can work for simply running around town or making an appearance at a swanky soiree.

Bejeweled Sandals

Now, as much as I love the barefoot sandals, there comes a time during my day where I actually have to leave the house & I must wear shoes. If it's warm out & I can afford to be pretty casual or need to be in flats, I'll opt for the borderline-gaudy jewel encrusted sandals. They make my feet happy :-)

The Backless Maxi

Effortlessly sexy. The only problem is figuring out the boob wrangling situation for dresses like this. I am stuck with DDs for the moment so I will definitely be heading to Nordstrom to pick up a backless adhesive bra & praying to God that it works. (Click Here to See the one I'm Talking About)

Cropped Tops

Young, Fun & Timeless.

Mom's (like me!) & the more modest can pair these tops with ANYTHING highwaisted! 

Cut-out Pants

I love these. The denim with the bow detail is cute and can be worn during the day. While the Geebin version is more suitable for a night out.

Lucite Heels

Who says clear heels are just for brass pole engineers?

Joggers & Harem Pants

So comfy & So versatile. These can work at the gym or for girls night out with a strappy heel.

Head Scarves

A great way to add a little extra something to a messy updo or camouflage unruly or dirty hair. Whatever the reason for wearing one (As long as it's not the hood-rat bedtime shouldn't-come-out-of-the-house scarf) this is one accessory that always looks good...when done properly.

Crochet

From bathing suits to cover-ups to dresses. Crochet is boho chic at its finest..at least in my opinion. Crochet pieces can be worn to the beach or just around town layered over a bralette/tank & shorts or slip dress.

Ok, so now that you have survived my almost never ending SS14 wishlist, What do you think? What are some of your wishlist items for the Spring/Summer? I'd love to know! 

Stay tuned to the blog & YouTube. I just may do a haul or two once I've found everything I need/want.  

60 Days to Sexy: Vegetarian Phase

Ok, so I've been away a little longer than I planned & this update is a bit late, BUT...it's here now (yay!). Anyway, as most of you know by now I am on a bit of a health & fitness journey at the moment. I decided to put together a diet & fitness "plan" for myself  in order to get in somewhat decent shape for the spring. 

Unlike the last few posts, this update isn't going to be very long, as there were no drastic changes since the previous phase.

I'm a couple pounds down (161-159) this time & I have been trying to exercise throughout the week. & even though I have not exactly stuck to the plan 100%, I'm getting there. THIS IS HARD...especially with kids & all their kid snacks in the house. I admit, I had more than several weak moments & found myself eating chips & Keebler cookies ONLY because they were there & I was hungry  :-(

As far as the REAL food I ate during this phase, I didn't really stray too far from the foods I ate during the vegan phase (Click Here for Previous Post) . I did however add in eggs & dairy.

Vegetable protein "sausages" with breakfast or spaghetti squash.
(These do contain egg)

Cheese!!! I know it's not ideal for weight loss... but I had to.
Just a sprinkle here & there.

Breakfast  scramble with potatoes, peppers, onions & "smart sausage".

Tamago Kake Gohan "Egg covered rice" (Japanese)
A must try!

Light yogurt for breakfast or as a snack

So, that's pretty much it for now. I am (in spite of my slip-ups) continuing with my plan & will be back soon with another update!

60 Days to Sexy: The Vegan Phase

Ok, so I've just completed the vegan phase of my plan. (If you're just now jumping in & have no idea what I'm talking about, Click Here to read my first post on the subject!)

I'm now at the halfway point & it really seems to have gone by pretty quickly. Two weeks for the cleansing/transitioning phase & another two weeks following (or really trying to follow) a vegan diet plan. Now, although there is a glimmer of light at the end of this "diet tunnel", there is also the daunting realization that I only have around 4 weeks left to reach my goal.

Now, on to the progress report! I started this whole slim down project weighing in at 171 lbs. & if you recall from the previous post, I was able to shed 14 pounds during the cleanse, then 2 more during the beginning of the transition phase. After posting that update, I began to gain some of the weight back, which is completely normal when you have fasted for an extended period of time. Having done the cleanse several times in the past I have come to expect about a 5 lb weight gain to immediately follow this cleanse. This time, however...(sigh), I packed on 10. Then I slapped myself for trying to justify eating french fries, white rice & birthday cake & not exercising everyday.

How did this happen!?! Well... I apparently managed to temporarily misplace that monk-like discipline I spoke of in a previous post & fell COMPLETELY off track. Hey, what can I say other than I'm human & now it's time to reel it back in. So, let's do a little bit of math & try & figure out my current weight situation:

171 - 14 = 157

157 - 2 = 155

155 + 10 = 165

165 - 4 = 161

171 - 161 = 10 lbs down
(Goal) 25lbs - (Loss) 10lbs = 15 to go!
*If I stay on track this is completely doable*

Picture time! Now there isn't much of a change this time around. But considering the weight fluctuation (particularly the gaining part) I'm not upset. 4 more weeks to go! 

This picture reflects a 4 lb difference. (157 to 161)

Now, to stay on track for the duration of this program! I will have a much better progress report next time around. I promise (myself). On to Vegetarianism!

& I almost forgot! Well, I did forget...I had to edit this in an hour after publishing the original post. Anyway, here are some of the foods I ate during this phase. Recipes forthcoming :-)

Asparagus over Quinoa

Grilled Peppers & Onions over Quinoa

Coconut Curry Noodle Soup

Sweet Potato with Kale & Quinoa

Roasted Vegetables with Herbs & Garlic

Quinoa Tabbouleh

Tofu Sushi with Veggie Spring Rolls

Sauteed Kale & Spinach with garlic over Brown Rice

Spaghetti Squash with Chunky Vegetable Sauce

Fruit!!!

Vegan Protein Bars

Low Fat Popcorn

Granola with Almond Milk

Nuts

Thanks for Reading!!!

Check out my Instagram & Pinterest for healthy food ideas!

60 Days to Sexy: Transitioning Out Of the Cleanse

Ok, so I survived the Master Cleanse...again. And now it's time to transition out of this liquid fast, back into eating solids.

But first! A little progress report. During the cleanse I was able to shed about 14 pounds, & another 2 during the first 2 days of transitioning.

I am currently on my 4th and last day of transitioning and like I mentioned in my last post, I knew I would inevitably gain a few pounds back once solids came back into the picture. As of today I have gained back around 2 pounds, which is OK! I've got 6 more weeks to get to my goal of a 25 pound weight loss. And since I'm back on solids & able to get some protein in, I can safely increase the intensity of my workout (which I have actually been slacking on).

If you Click Here & go back to my previous post, you will find detailed instructions on how to properly transition out of the cleanse. It is important that you follow the instructions only making minor modifications if necessary. If you finish your cleanse & immediately scarf down a bacon cheeseburger... You. Will. Get. Sick. 

Here's a list of everything I used to transition out of the MC:

• Water & Lemon Water
• Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice
• Herbal Teas (caffeine free, w/ honey)
• Vegetable Soup (I ate the Progresso canned soups minus the pasta)
• Fresh Fruits 
• Vegetables (Fresh or Sauteed)
• Rice Crackers
• Multi-Vitamins & Probiotics

So, there you have it! The cleanse is history, I'm almost done transitioning & I'm ready for the next phase of my plan. VEGAN...at least the dietary aspect of veganism....for the next two weeks.

& here's a peek at my fridge...just because! Vegan recipes forthcoming!

60 Days to Sexy: Part 1. Cleanse

*DISCLAIMER*

I am not a professional, dietitian or nutritionist, nor do I have any formal training in the area of health or fitness. I am simply a mom of two here to share my personal experiences/opinions on effectively getting ones sexy back, the healthy way.

Please consult your health care provider if you are taking  medications or have any condition that may be affected by an abrupt change in diet or introduction of new physical activity.

I do not recommend attempting this program if you are under 18, pregnant or nursing.

This is a program that I am trialing for myself. An experiment.
Follow at your own risk.

THANK YOU

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Ok people, time to dive into the details of my "60 Days to Sexy" body makeover. This is a 5 part program consisting of the following:

1. An Internal Cleanse/Detox (The Master Cleanse)
2. A Vegan Diet
3. A Vegetarian Diet
4. A Low Fat/Low Carb Omnivorous Diet 
5. Exercise

I don't believe in counting calories...it's too stressful. I also don't use a tape measure unless I'm trying to size myself for a new bra or order a dress online & need to reference the sizing chart.

I use exercise and healthy eating as my main tools. If you're losing weight and shaping your body, why stress over calories and inches? I like to focus on how my body looks, feels & whether or not I can fit my size 4 skinny jeans.

Now, I know not everyone's goal is the same as mine. However, I do feel as though this program could be a one size fits most (not all). Whatever your goal may be, cleansing, healthy eating & exercise WILL help you attain it. I promise!

Part 1:

The Master Cleanse

The Master Cleanse is an exclusively liquid diet developed to cleanse your body of old waste & toxic buildup. It consists of natural laxatives, herbal teas & a lemonade drink made of lemon juice, organic maple syrup & cayenne pepper.(For more details on the Master Cleanse Click Here) I use the master cleanse secrets website for reference.  ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^

The Master Cleanse is not at all for the faint of heart & is to be done for a minimum of 10 days for best results. ( I usually do 10-14). It will likely be an extreme departure from your normal diet and will require the discipline of a Buddhist Monk to complete.

What You Will Need

Sea Salt (Not Regular Table Salt)

Herbal Tea Containing Senna

Your choice of  caffeine free herbal teas.

Grade A or B Maple Syrup (NOT Pancake syrup), Fresh Lemons, Cayenne Pepper

Juicer for FRESH lemon juice (no bottled lemon juice. It's processed with crap & preservatives)

A large (60+ oz) pitcher to mix & store your lemonade for the day

A daily Probiotic supplement (Post-cleanse. Not during).
This will replace the good bacteria that gets flushed out during the cleanse.

Travel mug for teas.

Reusable bottles for convenience. Always take your lemonade & water with you when you're out.

The Lemonade

60 oz. daily serving:

• 7 1/2 cups (60 oz) filtered water
• 3/4 cup organic grade B maple syrup (Not pancake syrup)
• 3/4 cup fresh lemon juice ( 3-4 whole lemons)
• 1/2 Teaspoon cayenne pepper powder

The Salt Water Flush

• 2 tsp sea salt
• 25-30 oz warm water (not hot)

What to Do

1. Drink a cup of the Senna laxative tea the night before you wish to begin your cleanse.
2. When you wake in the morning do the salt water flush. Give yourself at least 2 hours before leaving the house as this type of laxative is extremely effective. (TIP: If you just can't handle the salt flush you may replace it with another cup of senna tea. Though the salt is far more effective)
3. Prepare your lemonade & drink throughout the day you should finish the entire 60 oz before bed.
4. Drink (& swish) plenty of water. This is important since the lemonade is very acidic and enamel erosion could be a concern.
5. Drink another cup of the Senna tea before bed.
6. Repeat the above steps daily for 10 days.

My Personal Experience

I've done the Master Cleanse several times over the years & I am not afraid to admit that the only reason I even tried it was because it was reported that Beyonce did it to slim down for her role as Deena in "Dream Girls".

So, I am currently on day 8 & trust me it's not fun nor is it particularly easy. I have become completely obsessed with all of the food boards on Pinterest & Good God! The food I am going to make once this phase of the program is over! (Click Here for my Pinterest)

Anyway ...I digress. I get a lot of questions from people who are unfamiliar with the MC, so here's a break down of the benefits, challenges, what to expect & what I do to get through it:

Benefits:

• You get a complete flush of your GI tract. This can regulate your bowels and eradicate the gas and bloating that makes you look fat/pregnant.
• Your body gets a break from having to process and eliminate the crap/toxins found in a lot of the processed foods you consume.
• You can find yourself relieved of chronic ailments that have been exacerbated by the inflammatory properties of sugars, gluten etc.
• Weight loss is inevitable, seeing as how you have eliminated all fats, refined sugars and well...EVERYTHING you would normally consume. Plus you're eliminating a gut full of yuck.

Challenges:

• The Salt Water Flush *gag*. I'll be completely honest and say that this has been by far the hardest part of the cleanse. Choking down a warm glass of salt water makes me nauseous & there are days when I skip this step altogether.
• The amount of time spent in the bathroom. It's important to take the sea salt & herbal laxatives as often as recommended in order for the cleanse to be effective. However, taking these laxatives can interfere with your daily life if not timed properly.
• The extreme dietary restrictions. The cleanse doesn't allow any solids whatsoever. This is particularly challenging when you are a mom, as you are (assuming you possess domestic abilities) always preparing meals & snacks for your family. & no you cannot make your kids/husband cleanse with you.
• You will inevitably go through "Food Withdrawal". Your symptoms may include hunger pangs, extreme bitchiness, headaches, muscle aches, fatigue, runny nose & Pinterest food board obsession.  Now, I am aware these symptoms are probably a pretty big deterrent, but they only last the first 3 days or so until your body adjusts. Then you should begin to feel normal if not better than you did pre-cleanse. Just make sure you drink often to keep yourself hydrated.

What to Expect:

• While on the master cleanse you can expect to see results very quickly. Eliminating the waste buildup from your gut will automatically flatten your stomach (to a degree). You can also expect to lose up to a pound or more a day while cleansing. Especially if you incorporate LIGHT to MODERATE exercise. However, you should also expect to gain SOME of  the weight back almost immediately once you go back on solids. It's completely normal.
• You will have cravings, please do not give in to them as you will undoubtedly derail yourself.
• You can also expect people to ask you a million questions about the MC then proceed to tell you how awful it sounds & how they could/would never do a thing like that. They will likely offer you alternatives to the MC or tell you how "unhealthy" it seems, or just flat out try to get you to eat something that "won't hurt your diet".
• & Moms, you can expect your children to try and steal all of your lemons and maple syrup.

How to Get Through It

• You have to be 100% ready to do this. If you are not, or do not have the proper motivation, you will not succeed.
• Know your body and it's limitations. Drink as much of the lemonade, water, & herbal tea (except for the senna) as you need to to get through your day. If you find yourself feeling just too depleted though, add in an extra (natural) component. I have been juicing a fresh orange a couple times a day to keep my blood sugar up. I also add honey to my teas.

          

Exercise

While you will definitely lose more weight during the cleanse if you incorporate physical activity, I can only recommend doing light to moderate exercise. If you go too hard in the gym on such a low calorie, no-protein fast, you will not lose good weight. You will begin to lose muscle mass and possibly bone. So keep it simple.

If you do decide to incorporate an exercise routine, here are some that I recommend. In moderation of course:

Stationary bike riding. Pace yourself though.
No need to ride as if you are in the tour de france.

Walking (indoor or outdoor)

Yoga & Stretching

Transitioning Back to Solid Foods

This is probably one of the most important parts of this cleanse. If you don't transition back to eating solids slowly, you can make yourself sick. Here is the recommended way to transition back to food that you can chew!:

• First Day After MC - Today you can add orange juice to your diet. I know, I know technically this a "post-cleanse" transition but it is still a liquid diet today. Begin taking your Probiotics to replace the good bacteria lost during all the flushing of your GI tract. Take them every day post cleanse. You may even consider adding them to your daily vitamins/suplements.
• Second Day - Along with the orange juice, you can add in vegetable broth, meatless, broth-based soups & rye wafers (I used rice crackers). Continue Probiotics.
• Third Day  - Back to solids!!! Finally!!! Ok, now you can learn how to chew again. Today you can add meatless, broth-based soups, fruits and vegetables to your diet. Keep them plain though. Herbs, spices & garlic may be added to the vegetables & honey to the fruit for sweetness. No cream sauces, dip (other than hummus), sugar, butter or cheese though. Take  your probiotic!!!
• Fourth Day - Same as day 3.

Once the 4 day transition period is over you may resume a regular healthy diet.

And that about sums it up for the first part of my "60 Days to Sexy" body makeover. I'm pretty sure I covered everything you need to know. I will be working on the post for the next phase & it will be up within the next week.

Click Here For Previous Post!

So, be sure to check back & don't forget to follow me here & on my other social media (buttons on home page) & feel free to comment or email me with questions.

Thanks for Reading!