Two months in

 I started the Regime two months ago.

The Regime?

Yes, the naturopath sponsored diet regime where I cut the following things entirely:

• Gluten
• Dairy
• Processed sugar
• Alcohol
• Caffeine.

Some have referred to this as the 'Fun Free' eating plan. Others see it completely unacceptable, particularly around the caffeine and alcohol-free existence. "I can't survive without my morning coffee!" they wail. "How do go out to dinner and not have a wine?"

The answer. Easily. 

Others have questioned why I'm gluten free if I'm not coeliac. Gluten, like dairy, and sugar and alcohol and caffeine can cause inflammation in your body. Eliminating it starts the healing process and rids your body of toxins. You feel lighter. 

Anyway, two months in on this plan:

• I've lost six kilos. 
• My head is clear
• I've got a ton of energy
• My body no longer aches
• Recovery from exercise is a lot quicker
• My clothes feel looser
• I can't remember the last time I took an antacid before bed
• I'm reading food labels carefully
• And this way of eating is not an imposition. At all.
• My cheekbones are showing again

I gave up caffeine eight years ago - one of the best things I've ever done. As I love the taste of coffee, the whole ritual of having coffee with people, almond decaf lattes (or a Melbourne Wanker) as it's known in Darwin, is my staple. Decaf, like gluten free bread, has got a lot better over the years. 

Bread is no longer a staple, but a treat. A sometimes food. 

Subway gluten free wraps with chicken strip, no cheese, and lots of salad are my takeaway staple. 

I've made this work. 

Two months on, I'm not craving sugar. While buying a coffee at the work coffee shop I was told of the evil lemon curd donuts on sale. Nope, all good. In the test labs in Darwin, where there are piles of lollies around - I'm not interested. (but a small packet of salt and vinegar chips - I'll take them). 

I'm reading the labels. If a food is showing a warning that it may contain gluten or dairy, I'll take it. May contain means there might be a trace. I'm fine with that. It's a bit like being in a restaurant and asking for gluten free bread. When the servers ask if I'm a coeliac, I just say no - I'm intolerant. (Or a wanker - that normally gets a smile). 

That I feel so good is amazing. At training last night, Chuck made comment that my muscles are starting to show. While doing tricep dips, he made comment that my guns were starting to come out. Maybe he was being nice, but he's not the type, preferring to torture me instead. 

I've got the energy to do more. It's great. 

So, what now?

Well, chatting to my naturopath over email, I'm committing to another month of this. I'm liking how I feel. The only element I'm bringing back is alcohol. I drink so little, it's okay. The rest of it, I'll keep them out of daily life. 

And yes, it's a bit boring, as I sit here with a cup of blueberries and a spoonful of coconut yogurt. And sure, when you go out, the menu is reduced - but steak is gluten free. As are rice paper rolls. And fresh fruit. And protein.

Also, I like that my body is feeling much freer - moving more easily. And the bundles of energy. 

Why would I want to go back to where I was?

Today's song: