Hi Oriana
Welcome to the beach! I'm a newcomer to this forum, so I tend to leave the menu critiques to some of our seasoned beach gals.
I have been following SBD faithfully for 8 weeks now and have lost 15 pounds. I thought I'd just take a minute and share some of my thoughts.
What I am really like about SB is that the emphasis is on changing to a way of eating which is healthy and sustainable
long term. I have done WW, calorie counting, Nutrisystem, etc. I always came away losing weight but still always hungry and craving. I still struggled and eventually went back to my old habits. I believe P1 is about getting rid of the cravings through detoxing from sugar and white flour. I can tell you it really worked for me. There were times during P1 that I really had strong cravings. I hung out at 3FC and posted alot and got through it.
I had a sf/ff pudding every night on P1. It satisfied that need for something sweet. I also kept a big container of sliced veggies as my "salad starter". Zucchini, cucumber,green onions, cauliflower,broccoli, radishes,celery,green pepper, purple cabbage...the list is endless. When I needed to munch I just pulled out a handful. I added mixed greens for my dinner salads. I still do it and it helps me alot.
Today, my cravings are pretty minimal, and I am focusing on educating myself and learning to cook and like new things. When travelling, I pack my own food. We had a picnic yesterday and I made a sweet potato salad that seemed to satisfy my family as well. I am learning how and WHY SB folks are reading labels and choosing less processed foods. I love the freedom I have because by making SB choices I don't have to weigh and count every grain of food that goes into my mouth.
I am making healthier choices and learning patience. I had my picture taken yesterday and cringed when I saw it, but reality kicked in and I was able to give myself credit and recognize that I am on the right track....it just takes time. I didn't get here overnight, and the changes
will come slowly and surely.
One thing I wouldn't trade for anything, is how good I feel. I am so energized and the energy I have by eating healthy will carry me through until I am able to take a picture I will FEEL like posting.
I am very grateful for the support I have found here. I would suggest posting daily on the P1 thread. It's a great way to touch base with others who are on similar paths.