Monday, January 17, 2011

Getting to know the Naturopath

Officially moving towards a healthier me by visiting the naturopath. She has been incredibly nice and took her time to go over all my tests with me and make some recommendations for supplements. I have a few new supplements to try. She was concerned that I had a low white blood cell count, which could simply be due to menstruation or fighting off illness, but she suggested I take some supplements and get some rest. Additionally, my blood tests have confirmed that I DO NOT have hypothyroidism. This was confirmed by two blood tests. This is a relief considering my family history, BUT I almost wish that I had it so I could have some explanation for this weight gain. So it really is the result of poor diet and laziness. Confirmed. Excellent.

I have below average cholesterol and triglycerides. She praised me for this and said it is likely the result of a diet with low amounts of red meat and high in fish (thanks, Allie).

Here are some of the supplements I will be taking in addition to weekly B-12 shots:
  • Adrenal Caps (Solaray) - This supplement should address some of the energy issues I have been having (difficulty waking in the morning)
  • Liver Cleanse (Thorne) - different herbs, including herb thistle, stinging nettle and dandelion extract.
  • Vitaline Total Formula 3 (Integrative Therapeutics) - Multi-vitamin. The Doc swears that this vitamin won't give me the "burps" like the others I have tried.
  • Fiber - I am going to start taking fiber capsules to regulate my digestive system and support it while I am detoxifying my liver.
She had a seriously talk with me about my back pain and suggested that I look into chiropractic care in addition to the massages I have been getting. I have an immense fear of going to the chiropractor - the cracking and popping brings a rush of memories from when the original injuries occurred. She is not a chiropractor but she suggested that a holistic approach to my health should include such care. I am concerned that I will never get past my issues and get my health on track without addressing my back issues. Daily pain can trigger the emotions that cause me to eat and keep me from working out. I may take baby steps on this one...

I'll keep you updated, folks!

Wednesday, January 5, 2011

Back to the mat...err..eventually

So I haven't posted in a long while. My quest at being accountable didn't last long huh? Posting pictures of myself in a bra and shorts wasn't exactly the best idea I have ever had.

The truth is, I met someone and I got lazy. When I started this blog, I was on a "single girl" quest to be my hot self - I was back into yoga full swing and I was eating better. Then I met my boyfriend, Turkey (NO, Turkey is not his real name). Turkey is my amazing boyfriend of the last 9 months. He is amazing, wonderful, and fabulous. But, when I was given a choice, I chose to spend time with him over yoga. I liked our nights out, trying new restaurants and delicious cocktails. In a sense, I am the happiest I have ever been...but I am also the chubbiest. How could I let this happen?

Now, don't get me wrong, Turkey is the best thing that has ever happened to me, but I need to get back on track.

So I will be starting the HCG diet in the next couple of weeks. I am meeting with my doctor tomorrow and I will be doing this medically supervised. I know that some people are not supportive, but those closest to me are or should be. A good friend of mine did this diet with much success and her support and tips will mean a lot to me.

Perhaps I will post pics again. I wonder if I look the same as April's photos. I definitely have a little more "love" on my handles ;). Before I start the diet and start loading, I am going to squeeze in a few bikram classes. I plan on continuing some light yoga during the protocol (some doctors advise against exercise, others encourage walking, yoga or stretching).