Back to Nature

I ran 4.5 miles today, it was a group run in Ft Lauderdale off of Saw grass Expressway. Leta and I drove down together and it never seizes to amaze me how down to earth and true she is. I really admire her spirit =) We ran through a great nature park and it was a nice change of pace from Palm Beach County.

Prior to the drive down, I had a doctors appointment with a primary care physician. I went to the PCP primarily to get a physical and explain that I am preparing to attempt a half iron man. In addition, I needed to address an abdominal problem that has be with me for quite some time. It is not a pain/discomfort that hinders me from my daily routine but it has been with me for a while and has not gone away. I am already taking a probiotic, and omega 3 fatty acids.

She sent me home on a elimination diet due to a potential food allergy/intolerance. The way it works is for 3 weeks, I eliminate all foods that can potentially cause an intolerance in my gut. In very simple terms I was told by my doctor if my gut heals, all other parts of my body will feel healthier. I thought to myself, this will be an opportunity to practice what I preach, but I had no how hard it may be to apply to my daily lifestyle.

So.... I am eliminating milk, cheese, eggs, yogurt (all dairy); (gluten)wheat, corn, barley, rye, any fillers in meat products, soybeans, peanuts, butter, mayo, salad dressings, refined sugars, white/brown sugar, high fructose corn syrup, evaporated cane juice, chocolate, and most condiments besides vinegar and spices..... I FEEL like I am my own science project for nutrition and health. This should be very intense, especially for poor Chris.

The first thing I did was stop by the Greenwise section in Publix to evaluate my options. I picked up about 6 or 7 cereal boxes and became instantly frustrated. Almost all of them had corn, wheat, wheat bran or some derivative of gluten. I decided on rolled oats, and/or fruit smoothies made with almond milk, flax seed oil, fresh fruit and ice for breakfast. I also made some hummus this evening for snacks. In the morning I will also be stopping by my favorite fresh fruit and vegetable market. I can never go wrong with having a fruit or vegetable on hand when I want to munch.
All and all, I feel like I need to keep optimal health in mind. I also feel that by apply this to my own lifestyle I may be able to better understand my clients frustrations when I educate them on a gluten free diet, or a lactose free diet.

Here is to my health and well being, I am going back to nature!! Looking forward to the 6 am wake-up call to jump on in that pool. Hopefully I will have a nice sunrise.