Test-Driving the Paleo Diet: Day 2 of the Caveman
Challenge

post from CalorieLab - Health News & Information Blog on 07 August 2012 07:05:32 PM. © CalorieLab - Health News & Information Blog

Pete's Premade Paleo

Yesterday, I shared the unboxing of my week’s meals from Pete’s Premade Paleo and my first day’s meals. Today’s post outlines what I ate, how I felt and whether I’ve lost any weight.

Day 2 Revelations

I woke up today feeling pretty good, and very slim. I stepped on the scale and was pumped to discover I was down 3 pounds — great news, but no doubt due to digestion and adjusting to eating less food. It’ll be interesting to see how my weight fluctuates as the week goes on.

I didn’t get hungry before or after meals today, which again surprised me. Before this paleo challenge, I might just eat a bigger meal like a sashimi salad with a specialty roll, or have a protein shake in the morning and a big spinach salad with tuna or another protein later on. While these food choices aren’t horrible, I can now see how the calorie counts can sneak up, especially with X factors like salad dressing and the combination of ingredients in a sushi roll.

Typically, I have a big appetite, but I’ve adjusted pretty well to not eating after my snack at 6 p.m. Perhaps this challenge is the placebo I’ve needed to retrain my brain to eat appropriate portions for my height, fitness goals and build.

It’s really convenient to not have to cook meals from scratch as I usually do. I can see why people spring for meal delivery — there’s no thinking, no guesswork and no waiting. Opting for premade food that’s actually fresh, local and gourmet is a no-brainer. In the spirit of the paleo lifestyle, I’ve even used the time I save on cooking and dishes to work in an extra walk in the afternoons.

Day 2, Meal 1: Chipotle braised chicken thighs with field greens and an apple and bacon salad

Oh man, was it nice to see bacon on the plate. I ended up piling the chicken atop the greens and finishing a bite of that with the apple and bacon salad until the greens were gone, then eating the rest separately.

Day 2, Meal 2: Duck tenderloin stir fry, carrots, snap peas and asparagus

Delicious. I’d forgotten how much I like duck; it’s something I’d definitely order at a restaurant but just never think to buy and prepare at home. The veggies were still crisp and the duck perfectly tender.