Hi Alfonso

I was vegan for 12 years up to 3 years ago. However, due to some nutritional deficiencies and health issues; sluggish thyroid, exhausted adrenals, multiple food allergies (nuts, legumes, peas, green beans, pineapple, in addition to dairy, eggs, and wheat) I was “ordered” by my doc to start eating meat again.

I started with only shellfish and graduated to actual fish although now I’m allergic. Now, I eat primarily bison, fish, and occasionally organic, free run chicken/turkey. I eat very little fruit, and tons of veggies. So, overall my diet is clean. However, I have started packing on the pounds in the last year.

I used to work out rigorously; running, biking, in addition to 1 hour weight training. Now, I do mostly 20-30 min home workouts, like yours and those from bodyrock.tv. I also don’t eat as much as I used to. Plus, I have my downfalls. I love sweets, so I cheat by taking bites of 1 piece of dark chocolate (or chocolate coconut ice cream) throughout the day, mostly after a meal. So, really, that’s only 1 piece per day or 1/4 C of ice cream. Also, I love my red wine with my dinners.

I am wondering if this could be contributing to my weight gain along with the fact that I am getting older – 35? I would love to follow the Paleo diet 100% in the hopes that this will get my lean body back. Could you please provide a good source where I could get some accurate information about this diet?


Best,


Fran

 

Hi Fran, boy that’s a lot of information!

My first thought is that I’ve never known someone to have so many allergies and restrictions, but in this case it may work to your benefit. Although I will ask you this – if you’re allergic to dairy, how are you eating ice cream? No matter really, I’m just curious if you use a lactose free brand or if the amount is small enough that it doesn’t affect you.

Okay, back to your question. It amazes me Fran, if you read your question, you’ve answered most of it for me! For one, you have a sluggish thyroid, and exhausted adrenals. That’s a one-two punch as you won’t metabolize food as fast and you’ll crave sweets – which you’ve admitted to. Throw in the mix that you also say your exercise regimen is not what it used to be and voila, you gain weight! Plus, the snacking on chocolate and ice cream isn’t helping, and you’re probably eating more that you think.

Now honestly, I think you need to see a doctor and have all of these issues re-checked. If you do suffer from hypothyroidism, you may want to try treating it, either with natural or medicinal alternatives. Interestingly, some side effects of exhausted adrenal are lack of sleep, low energy, allergies, low blood pressure, reduced memory and many more. So you really need to get on the ball with trying to recover from this as it’s kind of like the “hub” that lots of your issues stem from.

Ok, now on to the Paleo diet. On October 1st we started the Angry Trainer Diet Challenge and those that are following it are getting great results. If you want to but the book, or get the nuts and bolts of the program, go to the Paleo Website

Now truthfully Fran I’m not sure if this is going to get you where you want because of all the issues your currently having. But I will say what have you got to lose? Nothing but pounds! I suggest you return to your more rigorous workouts 4 days per week, and try this eating plan. It’ll fit right in with what you can eat; meats, veggies, fruit and nuts. You definitely won’t gain weight on this diet and it’s very nutritious. Now I suggest you slowly acclimate to both the workouts and the diet, and don’t change everything overnight. Try exercising at an in between level for now, and amp it up as the weeks go on. As for the food, slowly try adding in some Paleo type meals until the entire day is on track.

Lastly, you’re only 35! No, you’re age isn’t why you’ve gained weight. Age is not a reason for people to add the pounds. With regards to your little treats, I’m challenging you to give it up for 4 weeks! I know you can do it, it’s just 4 weeks. But on Paleo you can keep the wine, just try to reduce it to no more than 2 glasses, 2 days per week.

And if you’d like a more in depth consultation with me – just drop me a line via the How To Book button in the sidebar.

And if you have a question – please just click here. I’d love to help you!

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