Summer Paleo Challenge!
Want to take five weeks and get in the best shape of your life? Do it now with the PCF Summer Paleo Challenge!!
Kick off Meeting: Saturday, July 10th, 1:30pm at Potomac Crossfit
Finale Meeting and PCF Two Year Anniversary Party: Saturday, August 7th at 1:30pm
What you’ll get when you register:
- One Hour Intro to Paleo Brief and Q&A Session with PCF Coach Brian Wilson as well as past Paleo Challenge Winners, Kevin Chrapaty and Kate Lally!
- One Hour “Basics of Paleo Cooking” with PCF Coach and Chef Alison McConnell
- Weekly “Stay On Track” Meetings with PCF Coaches and past Paleo Challenge Successes to include: Levant Ozzaim (lost 85 lbs on the Paleo Diet), Rick Skigen (lost 20 lbs on the Paleo Diet), Mary Jacobs (lost 21 lbs on the Paleo Diet) and others!
What you can win!
Summer Paleo Challenge Competitors will have a great opportunity to lose weight, feel great, and get control of their diet. To encourage you to take the plunge, PCF will be awarding these HUGE prizes to the top men and women.
First Prize
- Cash Prize: $150
- Two Free Months of Unlimited Membership at Potomac Crossfit, $450 Value
- $50 Gift Certificate with the Humble Gourmand
- $100 Gift Certificate for PCF Focus Sessions, Seminars or Personal Training
Second Prize
- Cash Prize: $100
- One Free Month of Unlimited Membership at Potomac Crossfit, $225 Value
- $35 Gift Certificate with Humble Gourmand
- $50 Gift Certificate for PCF Focus Sessions, Seminars or Personal Training
Third Prize
- Cash Prize: $50
- $100 off Membership Discount at Potomac Crossfit
- $25 Gift Certificate with Humble Gourmand
- $35 Gift Certificate for PCF Focus Sessions, Seminars or Personal Training
Entry Fee:
$49 per Individual Athlete or
$89 per Couple
Winners will be voted on by Paleo Challenge Competitors based on Before/After pictures taken on 10 July and 7 August.
As a bonus, we’re celebrating PCF Two Year Anniversary on 7 August, so we’ll be breaking the Paleo Challenge in style!
To register, CLICK HERE!
Note: If you are registering as a Couple, just register one athlete and email info@potomaccrossfit.com with the name of your wife/husband/girlfriend/boyfriend to have us add them to the Paleo Challenge.
For general questions, add a comment below or email info@potomaccrossfit.com
179 comments for this entry:
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July 1st, 2010 on 12:26 pm
Ask your questions here!
July 2nd, 2010 on 2:52 am
Just signed up. Looking forward to it!
July 2nd, 2010 on 5:49 am
count me in!
July 2nd, 2010 on 6:50 am
I’m in and my husband (Rob) is also in.
July 2nd, 2010 on 6:54 am
Guys – had to change the end date of the Challenge. You’ll still get plenty of bang for your buck, but we’re wrapping up on August 7th now vice 14th.
July 2nd, 2010 on 8:11 am
So if a girl rarely cheats now…should I participate in this one? Hmmmm?
July 2nd, 2010 on 8:52 am
I think Aaron did a good summary on the main blog:
That’s a great question Kyle. I find I am in the same place and wonder the same thing. I’ll be curious to see the results if more people whop eat well already switch to eating perfectly. But I have ome random thoughts on the subject.
1. One potential great value is that people don’t eat as well as they think. This is an opportunity to test that theory.
2. My guess is that at the end people will maintain a higher level of compliance. Like you will go from 85-15 to 90-10.
3. This is a great way to be introduced to new foods and preparations regardless of how well you eat now.
4. If someone thinks they eat well (80-20, 85-15 or whatever) and are not seeing the fat loss or performance improvement they want, they really have no excuse not to do this. if you complain about results but don’t try following the RX to the letter, you don’t really have a right to complain about results. Do exactly what you’re supposed to for 5 weeks and if you don’t see results then you can complain. Kyle, I don’t think you are in this catagory as you seem pretty pleased with the results so far, I was just throwing that out there.
July 2nd, 2010 on 9:17 am
I will be out of town at the start. Can I still play if I take the before pics on the 10th and send them in?
Also, could Guch give a brief on effective manscaping for our after pics?
July 2nd, 2010 on 10:57 am
Alright…I guess that means I’m in! I got the general idea of it…now I need to bump it up a notch! I have my “All-Star” game..lol…on the 10th at noon…so I won’t be able to make the meeting unfortunately….I really need the cooking tips though
July 7th, 2010 on 12:00 pm
Bill/Kristen – we’ll be having a “Make-Up” kick-off brief on Tuesday, 13 July, 7:15pm at Moby’s.
We won’t be doing a cooking demo, but we’ll certainly discuss it.
July 8th, 2010 on 2:30 am
Fabulous!!! Thanks so much!
July 10th, 2010 on 3:39 pm
Guys, here’s all the info from today and last nights email. Take your Before Pictures! Need front, side, and back.
Take a look at:
http://brian.potomaccrossfit.com/?p=1837
Post here with questions. Thanks!
July 11th, 2010 on 12:42 pm
Hey! Whole Foods also carries Carlson’s Fish Oil. It’s way cheaper on Amazon, but I thought I’d pass the info along.
July 11th, 2010 on 1:39 pm
No butter for cooking right?
July 11th, 2010 on 6:56 pm
Wilks, I use the butter we get from the buyers’ club ( because it’s from grass-fed cows and has nothing but cream in it, so it’s a whole lot better than the crap in the store). However, it’s still dairy. For purposes of a strict 4 weeks, you’re better off with lard, olive oil, coconut oil, etc.
July 11th, 2010 on 7:10 pm
I know these resources were mentioned during the meeting but I was wondering if these could be reposted?
(1) Information about local farmer’s markets in the Arlington area.
(2) How to order from Alison
I apologize for asking repetitive questions, but looked for this information on the website/blog and couldn’t clearly find it. Thank you!
July 12th, 2010 on 5:33 am
OK, thanks Alison. I was using your butter (tastey) but will try coconut oil until I can find the courage to go with lard.
July 12th, 2010 on 6:06 am
Megan –
Farmers Markets
http://www.arlingtonfarmersmarket.com/index.php
Alison Distro
You guys have all been put on the distro if you are signed up for the Paleo Challenge, so you’ll see it this week.
Hope everybody had a good first 48 hours!
July 12th, 2010 on 6:13 am
Eggs: It’s What’s For Breakfast:
http://www.marksdailyapple.com/eggs-study-healthy-breakfast/
July 12th, 2010 on 6:32 am
Great kickoff on Saturday! I hated to bail early.
Round 2 is going to be difficult because I am going to follow this challenge to a T. No more gum (chewed it throughout the last challenge), no more cough syrup/drops PCF ebola I contracted in March, no breath mints, and no cheating with an occasional beer here and there. I guess I’ll need to get a tooth brush/paste at my desk.
Alison, thanks for the great cooking demo! I have a few more ideas now than I did the last time. RE: Butter. I cook with olive oil but throw in a little butter to avoid having the oil burn/smoke in the pan. Should I cut that out?
Brian, sleep did not come easy last night. It was one of those nights where I felt awake and tossed and turned frequently. I feel fine this morning, but if you have any suggestions or you need to tell me to suck it up, I’m listening.
July 12th, 2010 on 7:20 am
Thanks, Brian!
July 12th, 2010 on 7:33 am
Where can I find coconut oil? I tried two grocery stores and Trader Joe’s this weekend and couldn’t find it.
Thanks!
July 12th, 2010 on 10:57 am
Whole Foods carries coconut oil in glass jars.
July 12th, 2010 on 11:02 am
I’ve gotten my coconut oil at Whole Foods as well, Julie. If you’re an online-ordering type, try http://tropicaltraditions.com – they’re out in California, and it’s good stuff.
MJ, I wouldn’t worry about a dab of butter in the pan with olive oil. Focus on the gum & odd beers here and there; you’re on the right track.
For anyone outside of Arlington, here are more farmers’ market listings:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/artsandliving/foodanddining/features/2010/farmers-markets/index.html
July 12th, 2010 on 11:32 am
Julie
Not sure how much or what brand is at Whole Foods, but I bought Nutiva Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil from Amazon for $13.94. Rated 5 stars with 81 reviews. Started using it a couple of weeks ago and don’t have anything else to compare it to, but it works for me.
If I did it right, then there should be a link to the Oil in my name.
July 12th, 2010 on 6:38 pm
I thought the Coconut Oil at Whole Foods was really hard to track down. I found it next to the ground flaxseed in the vitamins area. I’ve also purchased it at Wegmans but it was not with the other cooking oils.
July 13th, 2010 on 4:41 am
Hope everybody is doing great! We’re on Day 4 and I haven’t heard of any crazed sugar starved Zombies attacking 7-11, so that’s good news.
First meeting tonight at 7:!5pm. If you missed the kick off or have questions (which you probably should) then come on by Moby Dicks: 3000 Washington Blvd.
July 13th, 2010 on 5:09 am
I am doing great! Glad to be back on the Paleo wagon. This is the kick in the ass I needed.
I am proud to say I killed my first bottle of fish oil last night. Mmmm.
One weakness, in addition to alcohol in social settings, is chocolate. I walked out of my office yesterday to find a huge bowl of mini chocolates (Twix, Snickers, etc) and I wanted to DIE! Between challenges I was binging on them, probably because I was bored and stressed. I need to work really hard at the mental aspect of these temptations during this challenge.
I experienced improved performance during the last challenge and watched it drop off a little bit in between. I am sure it has everything to do with the ‘occasional’ drinking, chocolates, and stress. I think Brian is on target when he says we probably don’t eat as well as we think we do.
How does everyone else feel? How is life without Coke Zero!?!?
July 13th, 2010 on 5:49 am
@Julie M,
I get coconut oil from Harris Teeter (on Glebe). It’s in a glass jar about the size of a medium mayo jar with a cream colored label. In the oil aisle, starting at the front of the store, it is on the right hand side on the very top shelf at the right end of the oils, just before you get to whatever the next grocery item is (vinegar?). They were on sale this week, so I got too jars. Hope there are still some left!
Christy
p.s. If you can not find it on the shelf, or they are sold out, get the manager to give you a rain check for the sale or go get some out of the stock room.
July 13th, 2010 on 6:18 am
198#’s Saturday morning
192.5#’s Tuesday morning
Making good progress so far but I am sure most of this loss is water weight. Also, just a thought for those folks who are also working out while on the challenge. Don’t worry too much about your weight and care more about your body composition. In other words, if you are starting to look better in the mirror and/or are able to pinch less fat on your body, it is working. I recall one female prior contestant who lost very little “weight” but had a drastic increase in lean muscle mass and a drastic decrease in fat mass.
The scale can help motivate but it’s not the be-all-end-all.
Keep at it!
July 13th, 2010 on 6:44 am
Alison
Quinoa – grain or seed? I say seed. I’m thinking of switching out bulgur wheat for quinoa in my tabouli. Or I just go with very little bulgur.
Brian
Been trying to find a listing of low to high glycemic fruits, but having trouble. You have a link in one of your pages, but it takes you to a “about.com” website but no list.
Mary
As far as how everything is going? I had a couple of hours of difficulty concnetrating yesterday and that’s it so far. I stared at my friend eating her pizza. I just stared. And I asked her to describe the flavors and the sensation that came along with eating a slice of delicious delicious pie. Call it vicarious eating.
July 13th, 2010 on 7:41 am
So far so good for me. But perhaps that is because I was smacked with a sinus infection on day three. It has zapped my appetite.
Brian – is tonight’s meeting a follow-up from Saturday’s kick off, or a make-up for those that weren’t there? Moby Dick’s chicken could be a good motivator to leave my apartment…
July 13th, 2010 on 7:42 am
Saad S- they shot down my quinoa request last time b/c it is a grain. And the pizza experience sounds like torture. That was my first meal post challenge last time around. I drove straight to 2 Amy’s for a pizza and beer and it was heaven. They haven’t tasted that good since.
July 13th, 2010 on 10:14 am
So I’m doing this again, but from afar so this could be interesting (especially since I’ll be in a country whose dishes are based on potatoes, rice and plantains).
Just as an FYI: You can also get Carlson’s Fish Oil for ~$20 from Vitamin Shoppe. You can get it on-line or print out the price and bring it to the store for the same price (a savings of 50%).
July 13th, 2010 on 11:02 am
I think I’m going to have to live off herbal tea as my go-to in between meals. I hope this is OK…
July 13th, 2010 on 11:54 am
Ooh, Lexi which exotic location?
July 13th, 2010 on 12:54 pm
Hi everyone – I’m a little late to the game here, but going to give it a more committed go than last challenges.
Unfortunately I can’t make the meeting tonight either ’cause I’m still working on a grant due tomorrow…Looking forward to the next meeting!
July 13th, 2010 on 1:04 pm
Saad, from what I gather it isn’t technically a grain, but it’s close in terms of glycemic impact. Skip it these 4 weeks.
http://www.marksdailyapple.com/alternatives-to-grains-quinoa/
July 13th, 2010 on 2:27 pm
Mary: I’m moving to Guayaquil, Ecuador in about 2 weeks. Nothing like doing the Paleo challenge while in the middle of an international move.
July 13th, 2010 on 4:17 pm
Are olives paleo? What about if you are trying to loose body fat?
July 13th, 2010 on 5:02 pm
Repost of the Paleo Intro for the folks that showed up for the meeting tonight:
http://brian.potomaccrossfit.com/?p=1837
Good times from the meeting, hope people can keep coming out for that.
Next weeks meeting will be Wednesday, 7:!5pm at Moby Dicks.
July 13th, 2010 on 5:11 pm
Saad – Quinoa, like Alison said.
Good info on Glycemic Index as it relates to fruit:
http://www.marksdailyapple.com/best-fruit-choices/
Again, if you want to lose fat, don’t eat fruit. It’s that simple.
_________________
Lesley – small amounts of olives, not a big deal. Just don’t eat a jar at a time.
July 14th, 2010 on 5:53 am
Mary – Just remember: “lean and ripped tastes better than chocolate.”
If anyone needs some bacon grease for cooking, I’ve found that I’m a net producer of the stuff. I use it to saute veggies like brussel sprouts and kale…delicious. If anyone would like a can, I could use to unload one or two.
July 14th, 2010 on 6:40 am
Jay – couldn’t have said it better myself! I will keep that mantra in mind EVERY time I look at a piece of chocolate and consider eating it. Excellent motivator!
July 14th, 2010 on 6:58 am
Thanks all for the coconut oil suggestions-I hope to track some down this week. I couldn’t make it to the meeting last night, but hope to get to the next one. Here are a few issues that I’m having so far:
1. I’m exhausted. I went to bed early, planned on making it in to the box at 0530 this morning and was just too tired. This has been going on for a few days now. Additionally, I’m not sleeping well. I wake up a lot, and though I fall asleep again fairly quickly, my sleep pattern seems to be off.
2. I don’t think I’m eating enough. I’m not sure how much I should be eating? I know my carbs are really low, which I plan on keeping, but I’m having a tough time getting enough fat in, I think. I’m not purposely limiting it, but I’m hungry so I think that is could be the case.
I had something else I wanted to bring up but can’t think of it now. Will post if I remember.
Thanks
July 14th, 2010 on 11:19 am
Julie – real common stuff, no worries there. Couple things:
Restless sleep: this is your carbs being low. Up your veggie intake, get some more dense veggies: carrots are a good start. Get your bedroom as dark as possible. Let me know how/if things shift from there.
Tired – same deal here, switching from carbs to fat. Try the denser veggies, give it a few days, let ke know.
July 14th, 2010 on 4:38 pm
The “window” for grass-fed meat orders is open through noon tomorrow. Place your orders here:
https://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?formkey=dDJta0d5cFh0Sk4wRElDZTB0Vm03b1E6MA
The weekly store message at the top of the form explains many aspects of the buyers’ club ordering process, but feel free to email me with questions.
Extra produce in stock today:
* Green beans ($3.59.lb)
* Heirloom tomatoes ($5/lb)
* Zucchini ($2.59/lb)
Email me (alison at humblegourmand dot com) if you’d like some for pickup tomorrow or Friday!
July 14th, 2010 on 4:50 pm
Is it wrong to crave raw meat?
July 15th, 2010 on 3:45 am
Samantha – Nope
July 15th, 2010 on 4:50 am
Today is my second day completely off of fruits/honey. I am definitely feeling a big sluggish. Yesterday during the WOD, I felt that my strength was fine, but my endurance took a beating. Is this normal?
July 15th, 2010 on 6:34 am
Paleo Challenge is going okay I guess. It definitely helps reading everyone’s comments on the Paleo blog! Hardest thing for me at right now is i feel like I’m eating the same thing all.the.time…so after talking to Mary a little this morning off to Trader Joe’s I go to change it up.
Side note: I hate not chewing gum, and the lemon flavored fish oil is really ruining my love of ‘water with lemon’
Good job everyone!
July 15th, 2010 on 7:42 am
Hi guys,
I am struggling today. My sleep still sucks, and today I seem to be craving everything that I can’t have. I’m not sure what’s going on, but the sleep issues are frustrating and I think probably contributing to my cravings. Maybe? Anyway, hope everyone is doing well, and thanks for letting me vent.
July 15th, 2010 on 8:11 am
Don’t know if this will help with the sleep but I have been eating a mini meal (not mini me) right before I go to bed. Prior to doing this I was actually waking up to a growling stomach in the morning coupled with a little nausea (am i pregnant?). Having a late night meal of meat and veggies, red peppers have been my go-to, and dare I say a quarter handful of blueberries, has really helped me feel better in the morning.
July 15th, 2010 on 8:24 am
My issue is with sleep and recovery. I feel like I’m circling the drain, if there is a bottom that you are supposed to hit before you start feeling better then I must be close.
I can’t sleep so I don’t recover and that makes me grumpy, then I get to the WOD and I’m off my numbers and that makes me more grumpy.
Totally willing to go through this to come out the other side, is anyone else having this issue. Better yet does anyone know how to solve this.
July 15th, 2010 on 10:06 am
I completely agree with the sleep issues and the low energy levels. For the last two nights, my body feels wiped, but I can’t nod off. Yesterday, I was so drained that I left work early to go home and sleep. On the way home, I could barely stand up in the metro (which is definitely not right for a healthy, young individual). Per Brian’s suggestion, I have been eating a ton of veggies today and am crossing my fingers that it helps! I also read somewhere that the worst days are 3 to 6 and after that, it’s generally smooth sailing; I hope this is true.
July 15th, 2010 on 10:30 am
Guys, this is totally common! You’re body is feeding off the last bits of stored glycogen (sugar) and is slowly (and unwillingly) switching to running off fat.
This is great, because that means our insulin levels are finally low enough that your stored fat can be used for energy.
That’s when things will start to pick back up and when we see the PROFOUND fat loss that we’ve had in past challenges.
Don’t believe me? Go back to the past Paleo Challenge Comments on this blog and read away…
Right about this time (3-6 days in) is when people start crashing hard.
But that’s the bottom, then we get out the other side
July 15th, 2010 on 10:33 am
Had a question via email about Paleo Pancakes
2 whole eggs
1/2 cup almond meal
1/2 cup coconut milk
1 apple, cored and chunked
2 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 pint fresh blueberries
coconut oil for cooking
So this is a super-tasty Paleo food item…that I’m not going to let you eat until after the Challenge
The issue is with the nut flour – too high in carbs.
I need to get you guys running off fat as your primary food source in order to lean you out and to be omre efficient in processing food for energy. If I dose you up on high-carb Paleo foods, we’re not going to get there.
When you’re off the Challenge, this is the perfect weekend “Cheat” meal. Still Paleo, but a little high carb. If we’ve leaned out sufficiently, not a big deal. But not until after the Challenge!
July 15th, 2010 on 10:56 am
So things are going well for me. I was hating my morning coffee and tried it with a little coconut milk today and that made it so much better. It’s high quality coffee, but drinking it black was just not cutting it for me.
I haven’t lost pounds, but I feel great. Though I do crave a glass of red wine.
July 15th, 2010 on 11:16 am
Quick question: is wheatgrass paleo? If yes, how/why?
July 15th, 2010 on 11:43 am
Naphtali – no. Because it’s grass and you are a meat eater.
July 15th, 2010 on 11:54 am
Does anyone have tips/suggestions for traveling? The last time I traveled I made smart decisions when ordering meals at a restaurant, but most of my meals will be catered at the hotel and the snacks will be cookies and stuff. If the flight wasn’t 5 hours I would take sliced veggies and stuff.
July 15th, 2010 on 12:01 pm
Where can we buy carlson’s fish oil, other than online?
July 15th, 2010 on 12:03 pm
Brian, and another–My goal is to lose some fat, but not lose too much. I’ll lose that (say, 5-10 pounds) if I eat moderate amounts of fruit and nuts? Or any fat loss requires excluding them? I figure all the alcohol and sweets that are not in my diet right now will do the trick, no?
July 15th, 2010 on 12:20 pm
Thanks, Brian. It’s good to know that feeling crappy is a good thing right now.
Mary J: I used to have to travel frequently for work, usually to conferences and meetings, where the food was catered and the snacks were juice and cookies. Something I found that worked really well for me, was to find whoever is in charge of the catering and let them know you are on a restricted diet and ask if they can work with you on some meal options. I never got too much into the details, but would let them know things I could/couldn’t have. I never had anyone be anything but helpful, and I have to say, a lot of times my meals were a lot better than what the rest of the group had. Good luck.
July 15th, 2010 on 2:06 pm
Brian,
I get that I’m supposed to be tired, but today I also seem to be really stupid. No focus. That ends soon also, right? (More than normal. Promise.)
Thanks.
July 15th, 2010 on 4:10 pm
I made a modified version of these recipes (stealing a bit from each, such as using coconut milk vice cream and a few other changes) with Alison’s beef strips and it was excellent. Highly recommended!
http://www.njamworld.com/2010/01/12/paleo-beef-curry/
http://girlgoneprimal.blogspot.com/2010/05/recipe-creamy-coconut-beef-curry.html
July 15th, 2010 on 5:38 pm
Dan – no fruit, no nuts for fat loss. You can up other fats though.
Mary – tell them you’re gluten and lactose allergic.
Anne – totally normal, your brain runs off sugar, but the hoodies switching to ketones.
July 15th, 2010 on 6:17 pm
Hungry ALL THE TIME. Particularly at about 4PM. Eat dinner early and snack in the evening.
Hardboil eggs as snack are great…the veggies just won’t cut it.
Wholefoods brand of Beef Jerky/ a little pricey but very tasty!!!!
I feel like I am much more restless in the evening. Usually I sleep once my head hits the pillow. It is taking me longer to get to sleep but when I drift off I AM OUT!
Major cravings for my wine…my room mate is showing no mercy!!!!
July 15th, 2010 on 7:37 pm
Great to hear about Carlson’s in Whole Foods.
1) I often find myself in a rush — is it cool to use Eggology egg whites (vice whole eggs)?
2) Related to the rush issue of #1, I have recently become a fan of Chipotle salads: no beans, obviously no cheese, just peppers, lettuce, guac, little tomato shreds, and a meat (barbacoa is my favorite) — is this cool? I don’t really how Chipotle cooks their meat but at least they pride themselves in its quality. I’d ask them but their English never seems to be that good.
3) Coconut milk in coffee is amazing. (got it at Ft. Myer commissary) I think I’ll keep drinking this post-challenge.
4) Are we cool with Paleo Kits? My office stocks a few, they are life savers when I’m working long shifts on customer sites and there’s nothing.
5) If you find yourself in a situation where you need to stay awake for a while (let’s say 30+ hours), does there exist any recommended Paleo boost when there is no coffee available? NoDoz? Five-hour energy?
Gracias.
July 16th, 2010 on 1:30 am
Patricia – switching to running on fat, it takes time and the bigger sugar addict you are, the harder it is.
For those that are having trouble sleeping, I like Now Foods brand ZMA, I get mine on Amazon. Two pills 30 minutes before bed, 3 for guys.
July 16th, 2010 on 1:31 am
Let me just reinforce the need to lower insulin levels by lowering carb intake. That’s the most effective and quickest way to burn bodyfat.
July 16th, 2010 on 5:45 am
For those of you who feel really tired… that’s good. That means it is working. Push through the next few days and I promise you will start to feel better, and then you will feel great. For me it was the 9th day when I started to turn the corner. For you it may be different. If you are hungry, eat more veggies. Keep the carbs low and push through.
I’d like to second what Brian said about the next phase is when you will really start to see the fat lose. Weeks 2-4 were the weeks where I saw the most change.
The weekend is when things really start to get tough. There are a lot more temptations on friday and saturday nights. Remember your goals and why you made the decision to do the challenge. Don’t forget that club soda w/lime blends nicely in a social setting.
Stay strong.
July 16th, 2010 on 9:24 am
Hey folks,
Getting kind of frustrated here. I’ve been absolutely famished – not sure if it’s ever going to go away. Also, I am eating more fruit than is probably recommended (because I need to lose weight.) What veggies do y’all recommend to eat in lieu of the fruit? (Fruitwise, I eat blueberries, peaches, apples and cantaloupe.)
OH! I was having trouble sleeping but ate half of a sweet potato last night and slept very well.
Molly
July 16th, 2010 on 9:40 am
Molly-
I live on green beans, brussel sprouts, asparagus, cucumbers, peppers/onions, hearts of palm/artichokes, and tomatoes. I usually roast all of my veggies in the oven and they are delicious. Feel free to email me at maxwelc at gmail dot com if you want some recipe ideas. I like to think that I am somewhat creative when it comes to cooking!!
July 16th, 2010 on 9:41 am
Oh and I forgot my favorite– kale chips! Take a bunch of kale, seperate it from the stem, spray/toss with olive oil and season with season salt. Then, bake it at 300 until its crispy. Delicious!! If you google crispy kale or kale chips you can come up with some good variations.
July 16th, 2010 on 10:26 am
Caitlin,
Sounds delish! Will def email for some recipe ideas. Thanks.
July 16th, 2010 on 11:18 am
@Molly,
I totally hear your famishedness. That happened to me in week 1 of the WSOP in January. At that time I was finishing 1 or 2 my meals with 3 strawberries, as a sweet treat. I was hungry and nearly angry-starving within an hour of each meal. I didn’t think that 3 little strawberries would send me over the edge, but they did. Once I cut all fruit, the freakish hunger stopped. So, the answer to my famishedness was to get rid of all sugar, no matter the form.
Best of luck!
Christy
July 16th, 2010 on 11:20 am
p.s. Down 4 pounds. 6 more to go.
July 16th, 2010 on 12:09 pm
Did my first WOD today since starting Paleo (“Linda” kicking my ass and other unfortunate circumstances have kept me away for this whole week) and I have to say I felt exhausted. I completely ran out of gas half way through.
Running a 5k race at 7:30 tonight, will see how that goes.
On the bright side, I’ve been feeling fine mostly and not too hungry and I’ve lost four pounds. Thought I was cruising until I hit the WOD today.
July 16th, 2010 on 1:41 pm
Anyone have any travel ideas? So far I have:
-Beef jerky
-Nutz
-Bell peppers?
Also, FYI, Kosciusko mustard is just mustard and vinegar, and super tasty. I’d use it in Brian’s famous salad dressing recipe but, um, I am paleo-stupid and don’t know where it is.
July 16th, 2010 on 8:46 pm
Anne–I keep Paleo Kits in my freezer/fridge — great on the go (expensive but damn tasty).
Everyone — I think I’ve hit the wall on weight loss, I’m down about 10 lbs, which is great, but the scale is barely budging now even with WODs 3x/week and additional exercise on top of that. I suspect some of the stall is due to some increased muscle weight also, but should I start calculating/limiting calories?
(OK, I admit, I am eating 1 organic grapefruit in the morning, first thing before anything else, 3x/week — I could kick this if that makes a huge difference)
July 17th, 2010 on 5:20 am
Anne – http://brian.potomaccrossfit.com/?p=1609
Mike – No on calorie restriction, yes on get rid of grapefruit. Have fun with the sugar withdrawal.
July 17th, 2010 on 9:03 am
I got seriously dizzy after this morning’s workout despite a large breakfast. Typical?
July 17th, 2010 on 1:12 pm
Dan – get some water with lemon juice and some iodized salt.
July 17th, 2010 on 4:45 pm
First weigh in this morning and I’m -10 lbs. I am also starting to feel over the hurdle of lethargy and anger that marked the first week of the challenge. My blood sugar don’t like to be messed with. I have to say workouts were lackluster the first week due to schedule and my body resisting the journey it’s on.
Couple observations – Fish oil, despite the awards it has won for its new more delicious orange flavor, is a good enough diet in and of itself for me. In fact I think if I just think about tasting the stuff whenever I get hungry I could solve all my cravings.
Also, a lazy tubing trip down the Shenandoah River ain’t as cool when you’re sober! The good news is Vibram Five Fingers are good river shoes and entertain the drunk kids, who dubbed them “monkey feet.”
July 17th, 2010 on 5:06 pm
Wow Ric, -10…and I was feeling good about -4 today!!
So far seems to be going good-happy hours and receptions are no longer as fun and all my friends are asking if I am pregnant! NO, I am not!!
July 18th, 2010 on 7:45 am
Minus 8.5lbs!
July 18th, 2010 on 8:58 am
minus 3#. I had a beer on Friday. Saturday’s WOD was a struggle of epic proportions. I blame the beer.
I have my beef and turkey jerkey, nuts and lara bars packed for my work trip to Georgia (the country). Here’s hoping it is enough to get me through the week!
July 18th, 2010 on 11:31 am
For all those traveling – I travel 5-6 hours twice every week. Prepping meat and veggies and sticking them in the freezer the night before works for me. They slowly defrost on the flight. I take them on the plane and sometimes I eat part as a meal or it lasts until I can get it to a fridge for the next day.
I’m on day 6 (started a little late) and a little sluggish but seem to be ok overall in my workouts so far. It is taking me longer to recover after my workouts I think though.
July 18th, 2010 on 6:03 pm
Brian, used lemon juice in my water bottle today and have been having more salt, but I still got real lightheaded after today’s workout. Scary stuff. What’s going on?
July 18th, 2010 on 6:49 pm
I was stuck in hotel this weekend and was hungry alot. Went to bed hungry and then went to town on breakfast.
Weigh in shows I have lost 7 lbs. Totally surprised.
Did not like bacon before this challenge and now it has become m friend. Is Applewood Bacon Bad? Anything that tastes that good has got to be. Great on burgers and with salads.
Still taking me a while to get to sleep and seriously need at least 8 hours sleep in order to get my ass out of bed.
Week 1 had several arguments with the bed in which the bed won. Meant I only got to the gym 4 times this week.
July 18th, 2010 on 7:03 pm
Echoing Brian, remember that lethargy, workout-induced lightheadedness, and feeling like you have no gas in WODs is definitely normal at this stage. Embrace the suck. It signals that your body is making changes.
Also, please remember to EAT. A lot. Often. One of the more common issues we see with people on cleans is the elimination of so many processed foods without enough replacement Paleo foods. If you’re hungry all the time, eat more vegetables. Preferably the green, leafy ones.
A tip from ChadPCF to prevent blood sugar troughs: When you start your day with an excellent Paleo breakfast, make a mental note of the time. Think ahead 3-4 hours. Know that ideally you’re going to need to eat again at about that time. Plan for it. Repeat throughout the day.
(Aside: this advice has been proffered more than once to yours truly. I can be a heinously cranky biatch when I go 6+ hours without eating.)
Will have a couple recipes & photos up on my blog tomorrow for y’all. Keep up the good work!
July 18th, 2010 on 7:04 pm
Trish you’re doing great! Four WODS a week is not slacking off. Keep getting that sleep.
Applewood refers to the wood used in the smokehouse where that bacon is made; it’s completely allowed (and tasty).
July 18th, 2010 on 7:35 pm
Had to go to some sweet potato fries with my bun less one one burger at Eleventh after the metro dash on Saturday. Bad or really bad? Felt like I had to replace some carbs as I was pretty shaky and dizzy after the race.
July 19th, 2010 on 6:07 am
The Munich airport is proving to be more paleo friendly than I expected. Bratwurst and sauerkraut (no bier!) for lunch. Should be paleo, I hope
And I have been frarmer’s walking my roll-aboard suitcase instead of rolling it around. I figured lunges through the airport would be a bit much…
July 19th, 2010 on 7:57 am
Minus seven this weekend….. Which made me ecstatic since I’ve been pretty much eating paleo for the past three months with an occassional cocktail here and there!!! So glad I decided to try the challenge again!
July 19th, 2010 on 7:57 am
Regarding lethargy…just to share…the first time around for me in PaleoLand meant the first 10 days feeling literally weak in the knees and lightheaded in WODs and lethargic/sleepy in the afternoons at work. At first I thought “what I need right now is a HUGE hit of caffiene”, but that didn’t take away the lethargy and then I couldn’t get to sleep at night. Bad ju ju. It turned out that “what I need right now is FOOD”. My brain was used to thinking that afternoon tiredness meant that my body ran out of caffiene, but in PaleoLand it means that your body ran out of FUEL. So, instead of 3 standard meals, I now eat 3 standard meals and 1 mini meal (protein/veggie/fat) most days. No more office naps.
July 19th, 2010 on 8:34 am
Dan K. – let me know what time you’re coming in tonight and we’ll chat.
All –
Reminder:
Paleo Challenge Meeting
Wednesday, 21 July, 7:15pm
Moby Dicks, 1021 N Highland St
Glad to see everybody (nearly) is doing well and seeing good initial results. Couple things to keep in mind:
1) Dramatic/fast weight loss is common in the early weeks of the Challenge, but WILL drop off. Don’t expect to lose 7 pounds every week.
2) Energy and food intake are tightly correlated as we get closer to optimal hormonal balance (like Christy and Alison said). If you are feeling tired, and you’ve slept well, then you probably need to EAT.
3) Every day we are testing a model. This diet is not a “Law” of nature. If the model doesn’t work for some folks, we need to know about it. Different people have different body chemistry based on genetics and past lifestyle choices.
Use some amount of common sense, but don’t err too much on the side of “suck it up.” If you are feeling tired and not cranking during the WODS – that’s common. If your suddenly passing out and blood is spurting from your ears – that’s not common
– talk to me or Alison or a Coach.
Dig it?
July 19th, 2010 on 9:30 am
I am starting to feel adapted to the routine of meat and veg–which is significant considering I’ve been a vegetarian for 2+ years. Still lethargic and need 8+ hours of sleep, but now view tiredness as confirmation opposed to an item of concern. Lost about 6lbs so far. I am drinking about a can of coconut milk a day…either in coffee, to cook, or to wash down the taste of fish oil. Hoping this isn’t too extreme; I view it as my only vice. Keep it up, everyone!
July 19th, 2010 on 9:41 am
Thanks to everyone for posting. It’s nice knowing that I’m not the only person going through the exhaustion. Today’s my first day not feeling like I’m running on zero energy. I’ll see if that changes after some track work.
Is Poland Spring Sparkling ok to drink? Says its 100% natural flavors. As a former 3 diet cokes a day drinker, the switching to water and unsweetened iced tea has probably been my toughest obstacle.
July 19th, 2010 on 11:08 am
I lost 3.5 lbs the first week, which is fine because I had dramatic results (8 lbs week 1) during my first paleo challenge.
I have a voracious appetite right now. I had scrambled eggs with peppers and sausage for breakfast and a steak with salad for lunch and I am still hungry! I think I will stop by the store and buy enough carrots to appease Mr. Ed for my trip to San Francisco tonight.
Great posts everyone!!
July 19th, 2010 on 11:40 am
Things are going well over here. I am down about 3 pounds for the week which is good. I had a couple of beers this weekend (replenishing those carbs after the metrodash, right?) but with a looming bachelorette party in Denver and my brother’s wedding coming up, its back to square one/strict paleo for me. I’m super hungry in the afternoons but I am teaching so there is not too much I can do.
July 19th, 2010 on 1:55 pm
Two super-easy recipes (iced tea with lemon & mint, grilled summer veggies) up on my blog. Link in name. Lots more to come!!
July 19th, 2010 on 2:43 pm
Brian, I probably won’t be in till Wednesday’s 6pm workout. Work schedule this week is rough.
July 19th, 2010 on 4:26 pm
Paleo Challenge going pretty well, I guess. Haven’t weighed myself in a week but clothes are fitting more loosely. A few days ago I was a walking meat-hater but I think I turned the corner. Spent much of Sunday cooking up some goodies – lemon herb chicken, pork chops, cauliflower rice, and am enjoying the variety. Next up, tomatoes stuffed w/ ground bison and a fried egg! Gave up my major food habits – morning coffee w/ cream + fake sugar and my 15-year habit – cinnamon graham crackers. I guess I’m wishing the weight loss was more dramatic, is it possible I’m eating too much??? I’ve cut back on fruit (small amounts, less frequent, only cantaloupe, berries and the occasional raisin) but maybe I should cut it out completely? I know, I know, Brian, you’ve said it a thousand times. I’ll cut fruit. All in all, feel GOOD and CLEAN.
July 19th, 2010 on 5:33 pm
Interesting article linked to my name.
When I was paleo-stupid last thursday, I bought 2 lb of blueberries, oops, and in a major victory i managed to give most of them away at a party a few days ago. Sweet baby Jesus I love the blueberries. Not just a handful.
July 19th, 2010 on 5:36 pm
Oops, that was NOT the interesting article I meant to post. Above is the LA times article about dietary recommendations.
Previous is an interesting but irrelevant article about how you should be nice to crows or they will yell at you because they recognize human faces.
Doh
July 19th, 2010 on 6:13 pm
Going well here. Eating good food, sleeping through the night and no longer want to kill people or burst into tears for no reason. I still don’t feel like I’m recovering all that well or that I’m 100% at WODs, but trusting that it will come.
I’ve gone from being hungry all the time to not be hungry at all, is that normal?
July 19th, 2010 on 6:31 pm
Jenna – is there artificial sweetener in there?
Beth – no fruit=weight loss. Fruit=no weight loss. Also, what’s ‘cauliflwlower rice’? If that’s actual rice, then that’s a big Paleo no-go.
Meghan – sounds good to me.
Samantha – totally normal..
July 20th, 2010 on 1:17 am
Brian – cauliflower rice is little itty bits of cauliflower cut up to look like rice. It’s an amazing trick I play on myself. Found it it in Mark Sisson’s paleo recipe book.
July 20th, 2010 on 4:13 am
Nope, no sweetener!
July 20th, 2010 on 5:09 am
In hilarious news, my coworkers today told me that if I REALLY want to lose weight, I should stop lifting weights and do more cardio. Brian can we get an elliptical machine and perhaps a stair climber to really speed this weightloss up? Just kidding.
July 20th, 2010 on 7:14 am
Caitlin-
At lunch yesterday my coworkers were looking around to see who had the “healthiest” lunch and mine was dismissed for having “too much meat.” The winner was the guy who had 5 huge pieces of fruit, 4 sushi rolls, and a few carrots. I imagine he was starving by about 2pm.
Oh, and Brian I believe what we are truly missing at PCF is an ab machine. Can you get on that? Mmmkthx.
July 21st, 2010 on 4:14 am
Asmar’s baba ghanoush at Whole Foods is great and the ingredients all check out. Great with eggs and/or avocado.
To accompany dinner, last night i mixed cold cooked spinach, mustard, baba ghanoush, and an avocado slice. Delicious.
July 21st, 2010 on 5:34 am
I don’t think I’ll be able to make the meeting tonight but wanted to share that I think I started to turn the Paleo corner. It has taken me 9 days to ‘adjust’. I feel like I can perform at a good level on the WODs, I’m not hungry, My mood is predictable. Can’t say that I’m bouncing out of bed in the mornings but I’m recovering enough and getting the workouts done. I hope everyone else is seeing the light as well, if not hang in there it will come.
Now if I could only get the taste of fish oil out of my mouth, it really ruins my morning coffee.
July 21st, 2010 on 10:25 am
Paleo Challenge Meeting
Tonight (Wednesday), 7:15pm
Moby Dicks
1021 N Highland St
Clay and Lexi’s going away party is tonight at the Hudson at 7pm, so we’ll try to wrap up quick for the folks that are going to that.
July 21st, 2010 on 10:28 am
Glad to see everyone doing well. I am doing better, still not 100%, sleep is much better but still not great, and I’m still having some challenges adjusting. I hope to get in to the 8 pm WOD tonight, and then to 0530 on Friday. Hopefully next week I will be on a schedule.
July 21st, 2010 on 12:01 pm
Sam, I chase mine with water or unsweetened tea. It helps.
The “window” for grass-fed meat orders is open through noon tomorrow. Place your orders here: https://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?formkey=dDJta0d5cFh0Sk4wRElDZTB0Vm03b1E6MA
SALE this week: Pasture-raised chicken drumsticks & thighs, perfect for summer BBQs. $3.19/lb
Elk should be back next week!
Last thing — extra produce in stock today:
* Zucchini ($2.59/lb)
Reply to my at alison at humblegourmand dot com if you’d like to get some tonight, tomorrow, or Friday.
July 21st, 2010 on 4:50 pm
Good meeting tonight guys, glad all of you could make it out! Next meeting is Tuesday, 7:15pm at Moby’s.
July 22nd, 2010 on 6:04 am
Sorry to miss the meeting, any highlights I should know about?
July 22nd, 2010 on 6:13 am
Summary: Paleo rocks.
July 22nd, 2010 on 6:49 am
So, I have no idea if this is related to Paleo or not, particularly since these symptoms seem to be occurring later than the typical “hump,” but….
I have been STARVING the last two days…and kind of antsy, jittery. I’m eating the same portions of meats/veggies that I did the first 12 days…but for whatever reason, I’m ravenous. In terms of other factors: work accounts for much of the stress in my life, without a doubt, but I’m hoping i can blame some of it on the excess amount of meat I’m eating and it’s not just that I’m going crazy??
July 22nd, 2010 on 10:32 am
So far so good on the Paleo front – Day 13. You all are doing awesome. My experiences to date:
My partner and friends are acting like I am just out of inpatient rehab. This is how they are showing support for my “weird diet.” I’ll take it.
Discovered thin-sliced leeks sauteed in lard or olive oil as my favorite pasta replacement. Definitely beats spaghetti squash (to my taste buds).
Still can’t find a taste for cauliflower – even as a rice substitute.
I am now admitting publicly that I am not a huge fan of winter squash. Sorry Brian. I’m trying.
Managed to stay away from sugarless gum (a HUGE win – especially with my beloved leaving partial packs of sugarless gum all over the house). Fennel seeds are a poor substitute, but at least they keep one from breathing ugly.
To cope with my “weird diet” my partner is creating a list of all of the restaurants we can go to once this challenge is over (Russia House and the Vodka sampler is topping the list). I think he’ll celebrate more than I will when this is over. He wants pasta again.
This go- I’ve been working on paleo for performance and trying to maintain weight. I think it’s going OK performance-wise. Thus far, I’ve managed to avoid the crash. Then again, I am probably eating more carbs than most of the rest of the challengers (I’m actually trying to maintain weight).
Don’t be surprised if you see me back here in a few days asking to be taken off the ledge as I lunge for a cupcake and a beer. Thanks.
July 22nd, 2010 on 12:35 pm
Wendy – you’re doing great! And I just wanted to point out that ever since I was a little girl it’s been my dream to dive into a cupcake. Or swim in a giant bowl of brownie mix. You’re not alone.
July 22nd, 2010 on 2:05 pm
Is anyone else having trouble with recovery? The last few weeks I’ve been getting progressively more sore. My general rule to keep injury away is to take a slow yoga class once a week, use a foam roller, and keep my running to less than 15 miles a week. The only thing I’ve really changed since starting the challenge is taking my fruit down to about 1 cup a day of berries. It’s been 2 days since my last workout and my legs are still so sore that when I walk across the room they shake and my knees lock to keep me from falling. I’m not sure why I’m not bouncing back like I normally do. Thoughts?
July 23rd, 2010 on 4:22 am
Ali – try upping your fat a little bit. Some avocado, lard, tallow, bone marrow, bacon fat, olive oil or macadamia nuts would be good for you.
Oh yeah, and stop running. I don’t see a single thing that people do outside my gym that’s more damaging to athletic development and fitness than jogging.
July 23rd, 2010 on 6:34 am
Brian- why is jogging evil?
July 23rd, 2010 on 9:28 am
Beth – what’s really funny is that I’ve never been much of a dessert freak….until I started Paleo. Go figure.
Leslie B – not sure what your distances are, but I’m seeing more of this type of research showing up in my feed reader. http://conditioningresearch.blogspot.com/2010/03/long-distance-running-bad-for-heart.html
Of course, I’m not a runner – so it’s easy for me to take the “don’t run” advice
July 23rd, 2010 on 10:04 am
LesleyB – my experience has always been that jogging is a slippery slope from a quality workout into just mindless quantity.
July 23rd, 2010 on 5:15 pm
All of a sudden I am craving sweets – I was fine up until yesterday. Craving pizza too…this is mentally draining!
July 24th, 2010 on 10:32 am
Brian – where did you post that yummy salad dressing you told us about? Thanks!
July 24th, 2010 on 11:31 am
Ok silly question, but how do you change the image next to your name?
July 25th, 2010 on 7:46 am
Beth – http://brian.potomaccrossfit.com/?p=1609
Lesley – short version:
Joint/muscle Damage. I usually have to spend weeks or months getting runners to perform a single correct squat. They walk in the door with zero flexibility. If you can’t perform the basic Crossfit movements, you are not going to see improvements in your health.
Long Slow Distance Training. Lengthy training in an oxidative/aerobic state not only causes weight gain, it dramatically hinders your recovery, limiting your ability to approach a Crossfit WOD with anywhere near the required intensity.
July 26th, 2010 on 7:33 am
So glad to be back!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Nice work everyone so far. I have enjoyed catching up on the blog.
What’s worse than running on flexibility? Flying cross country. I did manage to PR my front squat this morning despite the tight hips and I felt pretty strong during “Randy,” which I finished rx’d. I guess the couple of rest days helped counteract the flight.
July 26th, 2010 on 10:52 am
Mary J. – great to have you back.
All – Paleo Challenge meeting goes tomorrow, Tuesday 7:15, at Movy Dicks. Also note, you can now subscribe to the Paleo Challenge comments below.
July 26th, 2010 on 1:24 pm
Tasty meat sauce recipe linked in my name.
Throwing some numbers your way: Day 30 for me today, down 10 1/2 lbs (to my fighting weight), plenty of gas in WODs, and still fighting off the occasional sugar fit. It gets easier with repetition but I tell you, 25+ years of American eating habits die hard.
How are others doing? Hope to see everyone tomorrow night!
July 27th, 2010 on 6:36 am
Homemade Beef Jerky = Yum
July 27th, 2010 on 6:40 pm
the wine withdrawls hit an all time low this weekend and continuing into this week…
July 28th, 2010 on 5:19 am
Good meeting last night, glad folks could make it out. Joe folks have settled into a groove by now. If you are still having issues, let me and Alison know so we can get you on the right track. Common issues are:
Cravings
Difficulty falling asleep
Mood swings
Hunger
So ask questions, let us know how it’s going. Home stretch!
July 28th, 2010 on 9:14 am
I pretty pleased with how it is going. Feeling better, losing weight, walking taller. I don’t have a long history of Crossfit workouts to compare but I know that I’m better than when I started, and I keep working towards citius, altius, fortius.
Coping skills I have learned over the past couple of weeks:
I try to keep it simple; things I can eat = meat, veggies, fat; things I can’t eat = everything else.
If I’m craving something, I try to distract myself (i.e walk around the office, check the paleo blog, etc.)
Mood swings, I apologize to everyone around me and then I try to eat something or drink water.
I’ve found raw broccoli is extremely filling, I keep a bag handy for when I get hungry.
Nothing tastes better than feeling good, looking good, and achieving your goals.
One other thing I’ve noticed that might relate to general health. Less plaque/tartar build up on my teeth. I’ve often read and heard that oral health is a reflection of cardiovascular health, so maybe there is something to this.
Good Job everyone!
July 28th, 2010 on 3:42 pm
Great point Samantha! Hair, skin, nails, and teeth are MOST DEFINITELY indicators of health and we typically see great improvements in all three. Dr. Cordain has done several studies on Paleo’s affect on acne.
July 28th, 2010 on 6:36 pm
Boy, gluten really IS terrible for you!
I unthinkingly ordered breaded chicken tenders this afternoon and I only recognized my mistake when I looked into the mirror and thought
“Wait, where did my newly flat stomach go?”
July 29th, 2010 on 4:05 am
Lesley – that’s the beauty of the Paleo Challenge. It’s very self-regulating once you get over the hump.
July 29th, 2010 on 5:49 am
Back on the wagon after a week of being force-fed cheese, bread, wine and beer in heaping doses. While I am all up for trying new foods in new places – culturally, the Georgians couldn’t wrap their head around this challenge.
So I am back at it.
July 29th, 2010 on 6:18 am
Not sure what’s up but I have been experiencing evening into morning headaches pretty consistently since the start of the challenge. They almost feel like mild hangover headaches and/or dehydration headaches but I am not drinking alcohol and my fluid intake has been good (consistently light to clear urine). Any thoughts?
July 29th, 2010 on 6:34 am
Wilkins – I’d point at electrolyte balance. It being summer, you’re losing a lot of salt. Give Endurolytes (just Google) a try. I take 1-2 of these before WODs if they are going to be outside or long.
July 29th, 2010 on 7:08 am
will do, thanks.
July 29th, 2010 on 10:24 am
Headache gone, thank you. These can be found at Revolution Cycles and are made by Hammer. Good advice Brian, appreciate it.
August 2nd, 2010 on 6:15 am
Last week…let’s get it on!
August 2nd, 2010 on 6:26 am
How is everyone doing? Home stretch now, as the challenge comes to an end, remember to be smart about a ‘cheat meal’. Don’t waste the 4 weeks of strict eating, by dumping in a ton of badness. Try to introduce things slowly one by one. I’m sure Brian will have more info on this, but just something to keep in mind.
My guess is that for many, the cravings have decreased a good amount by now and you may not even want that super delicious mega cheat meal that you were dreaming about on day 5.
August 2nd, 2010 on 6:46 am
Last Paleo Challenge Check-Up Meeting Wednesday, 7:15pm at Moby Dicks before the big show on Saturday!!!
Make sure to take your after pictures (front, side, back) on Saturday morning. You’ll then email them to photos@potomaccrossfit.com.
We’ll be showing them just to the Paleo Challenge Competitors and vote for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places.
We’ll also discuss how to design and implement a long term Paleo plan, to include:
-Alcohol
-Carb Intake
-Dairy Intake
I’m still not going to let you eat bread. That shit will kill you
August 3rd, 2010 on 6:33 am
Update from me. I am down a total of 3#s (I lost 3 the first week, gained it back the second week as I was overseas on a work trip and now am back down 3). Not really losing pounds – but I am losing inches. My clothes are much looser than when I started the challenge.
On the eating part – I am hungry all the time. In talking to Brian after this morning’s WOD, we figure I am not eating enough. So I am going to up the food and see how that goes.
A question for the group – snack ideas. Do you have any? Presumably if I eat more at meal time, I won’t need snacks. But I am still looking for ideas. I am currently noshing on either Tj’s turkey/beef jerky, packets of tuna and/or ziploc bags full of fresh raw veggies (cauliflower, broccoli, baby carrots and cherry tomatoes) and dipping them in Brian’s special dressing. I find this a good way to get my veggies in (which I otherwise think I am lacking in my daily intake). But I know that I am going to get bored of this – any suggestions? I am trying to stay away from fruit and nuts as I continue to lean out.
August 3rd, 2010 on 7:28 am
I won’t be able to attend the last meeting tomorrow night. The days when I get enough sleep I feel great! I notice it with silly things like having the energy to prepare lunch the night before, iron my clothes, etc. Small things that I normally would feel too tried/lazy to add to my routine.
As for snacks suggestions, I like whole foods sliced meats, cut up veggies, hard boiled eggs, and sliced tomatoes with a little olive oil and salt, mini bowl of Brussels sprouts, etc. I switch up the snacks every other day in order to avoid food boredom.
Good luck everyone and see you on Sat.
August 3rd, 2010 on 8:33 am
Giant carries 100 calorie guacamole packets that I pack and enjoy with carrots or sliced peppers. Amazing!
August 3rd, 2010 on 8:49 am
Good snack suggestions. As you said, Kourtney, the more you can eat in the context of meals vs. snacks the better off you’ll be. (This is coming from a recovering grazer. Now I try to leave that to the cows.)
Two more recipes up on my blog today, and more to come tomorrow! Link in my name.
Stay strong folks… home stretch.
August 3rd, 2010 on 10:03 am
I love Asmar’s Baba Ghanoush in Whole Foods. Yes I want to marry it. No yogurt (eggplant based), great on eggs, fantastic with avocado, good on everything or eat it by itself.
August 3rd, 2010 on 10:34 am
Last Paleo Challenge meeting before the Paleo Challenge finale at Saturday.
Wednesday, 7:!5pm
Moby Dicks
See you there!
August 3rd, 2010 on 10:31 pm
Beth – have you made paleo sushi with your cauliflower rice? I remember that trick from my brief dance with raw vegan. Sushi is the biggest thing I miss on paleo so I am looking to trying it soon.
August 4th, 2010 on 5:22 am
thanks for all the snack tips. i hope to see some of you tonight.
August 4th, 2010 on 11:33 am
Paleo challenge mtg tonight 7:15 Moby’s
August 4th, 2010 on 11:42 am
The thing I love the most about this diet is due to the removed mini-carbohydrate crashes, one is not tempted to over-eat. You truly stop eating when you’re full. A much healthier way to cultivate positive relationships with one’s food. And I echo Alison on the recovering grazer (although I was a vegetarian grazer, so prob worse!) We’re all so close!
August 4th, 2010 on 4:11 pm
der… was late, couldn’t find mobys… der… thought it was wash blvd?
August 4th, 2010 on 4:45 pm
Anne it’s on Highland, just past the 7-11 if you’re walking from PCF… Sorry I couldn’t make it tonight, guys! Stay strong through the end of this week!
August 4th, 2010 on 5:14 pm
Great meeting tonight, thanks for coming guys. Couple high points:
1) If something is going really wrong/weird, talk to me and I can fix it.
2) Fruit can fuck you up, approach it with wariness.
3) You can have a life and eat Paleo. The Challenge is like your Boot Camp: Learn the basics, be stressed out, get through it. Phase II of the Paleo Challenge is the rest of your life. Learn how to THRIVE with Paleo: learn more, cook more, hang out with people that eat Paleo. Whatever it takes to stick with it.
However, if you cheat, do it WELL. Enjoy entirely too much coconut ice cream or chips and salsa, or tequila and soda after the challenge, see how you Look/Feel/Perform, and decide what you can live with.
The relationship is very linear after the Challenge. Inputs and outputs. You’re hormonally and digestively optimized after the Challenge, so you can either really mess that up, or you can use it as a spring board to greater gains.
A big things that’s going to help that is training hard and smartly. If you have regular data on how FIT you are (and WODs are that data) then you’ll be encouraged to continue.
MTF on Saturday. Stick with it!
August 5th, 2010 on 5:22 pm
What time is the meeting on Saturday? Got a few house buying chores to take care of.
August 6th, 2010 on 5:31 am
Dan- I believe the meeting is at 1pm, before the 2yr party.
August 6th, 2010 on 5:33 am
Dan- upon further review, it says 1:30 in the information above, so maybe I guess I’m not sure…
August 6th, 2010 on 9:01 am
Kevin – you were right the first time, it’s 1pm tomorrow.
Great work to all of you, be sure to send your Before and After pics (front, back, side) to photos@potomaccrossfit.com NLT 1000 Saturday.
We won’t post these online anywhere unless you specifically tell me that’s ok. Otherwise, I just bring my computer in, we put them on the tv at the gym, and we vote.
Good luck, see you tomorrow!
August 6th, 2010 on 4:01 pm
Great stuff from the Big Cat, check it out:
http://pcfbigcat.wordpress.com/2010/08/06/hello-world/
August 8th, 2010 on 4:43 am
Hey Brian,
- What was the name of that electrolyte stuff that is a better option than gatorade?
- I picked up a copy of the Paleo Diet for Athletes. They recommend trimming fat from all lean meats and limiting egg consumption. ?!?? (Also it seems to mostly be for endurance athletes, though I have to admit I haven’t gotten far).
- Should I stop posting here since this challenge is over?
August 8th, 2010 on 6:06 am
Anne:
-Endurolytes
-Cordain has backed off that position substantially. Eat as much eggs and fatty meat as you’d like. Realize for max weight loss, I want you to mix in lean meats, but drop-in a ribeye or roast as well. Never eat egg whites only, just because it makes me sad.
-Post away.
August 15th, 2010 on 11:03 am
Paleo Challenge Phase II: The Rest of Your Life:
http://brian.potomaccrossfit.com/?p=1933
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Please move then because your shite, as was demonstrated yesterday. Dreadful defending is what lost us the game. Shocking positional play by the defenders literally gave the game away. Harry needs to get grips with this asap. There were players virtually strolling back or tracking back for both goals…awful.
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