I learned to value myself.

In the past 30 days I’ve lost 12.5 lbs. I’m wearing clothing that I have not been able to wear in 5 years! However, more important than the weight loss is what I’ve gained.

I gained a better relationship with food. Food was my “drug of choice,” and that was especially evident this past year. In February, I lost my father. In April, my son joined the Air Force, and in May, my daughter and her husband moved 3 hours away. Needless to say, this mama’s heart was broken and so empty. I reverted to evenings filled with snack foods and Netflix to cope with the pain.

The past 30 days helped me to get a grip on my unhealthy eating. I’ve learned to value ME. I’ve learned that I can still do LIFE. I will always experience food challenges, but I believe Whole30 is a great start at overcoming so many of the pitfalls that I’ve fallen into in the past. I feel great about my new lifestyle of eating, cooking, and shopping.

I’ve gained so much more energy, better quality sleep, and a more joyful attitude. I’ve gained increased knowledge of how many foods have added sugar, preservatives, and artificial chemicals by learning to read food labels.

I’ve learned I can get up from a seated position and walk without my joints hurting. I’ve learned that I CAN drink coffee without cream! I’ve learned that veggies don’t have to be smothered in butter and cheese to taste good. And I’ve learned that I really enjoy exercise and feeling of being healthy and doing something good for myself.

I will continue to incorporate all the things I’ve learned in the past 30 days into a healthy lifestyle. Also, I am so thankful I have a supportive husband that stuck with me and did the Whole30 too. He lost 12 pounds! – Amanda