Paleo Journey: Danielle Chambers

We’re back with another inspiring story from one of our followers. Nothing is more encouraging then knowing that so many others are in the same boat, or have fought the same battles, only to come out a stronger and healthier person. It’s quite amazing to read how this nursing student has gone against many of the dietary practices she has been taught, and as a result, has found herself on the path to optimal health.

“It was the night of September 29^th, 2012. I was attending my state’s Student Nurse’s Convention. I heard an announcement of a special focus session on health and wellness and nonchalantly decided to attend. Little did I know this was the beginning of a transforming lifestyle that would soon change my life. The speaker talked about a high fat, low carbohydrate diet, which was puzzling to me. She also talked about several health problems like colon irregularity and diabetes (just to name a few,) which could be prevented, if not cured by this lifestyle. Being a nursing student, this went exactly opposite the preaching of the text books which are suppose to be a guideline for getting people geared toward better health, right? Well this sent me on a determined trip to research and find the truth. Especially suffering with some of the problems referred to, I certainly took interest, and didn’t mind the thought of losing a couple pounds. Long story short, I concluded that the paleo lifestyle would be worth a try. Now, six months later, the paleo lifestyle has certainly helped change my life. Those problems I suffered with before (sleeping, bowl disturbances, and weight gain) are no longer a part of my life. I feel like I have more control and enjoy more of my life. I have more energy to do what I want to do (which goes opposite popular thinking.)

It was a difficult decision for me to make and stick to the paleo lifestyle, especially at first. Changing to it right before the holidays did not help either. Traditional desserts and dishes I would have normally enjoyed were no longer an option for me. The more time that went by, the easier it became. I started to see more changes in my body and mind which helped. One thing that actually helped out was trying a bight of my uncle’s bread/sugar filled bread pudding. At that point I was about 3 months into my paleo journey. As that bight of bread pudding slid down my throat, right away I made the conclusion: it just was NOT worth it. Those two seconds of sweetness was not worth the pain and pounds I would suffer later. To this day it is still tempting to eat those things, being practically surrounded by them day in and day out. I do treat myself to some fresh fruit or even homemade paleo pudding or cake. Otherwise I would totally delve into the other desserts and sweets in the world so it is totally worth the occasional paleo dessert.

One of my favorite meals is my own breakfast concoction: I sauté fresh spinach, chopped onion, mushrooms, chicken and ground cumin in some coconut oil. Then I scramble an egg or two and voila: breakfast is served. I am still a college student so fixing my meals in advance saves me much needed time. Most things I’ve found can freeze well like this awesome chili recipe: https://paleodietlifestyle.com/paleo-beanless-chili/ . Salads or smoothies are also a must. I usually pack a large cup full of spinach or kale, blend it and add some fresh berries, a protein, and maybe a banana if I’m working out. It’s quick and easy. One last thing is my coffee; I found I like to use some coconut milk and a little honey. I was use to regular creamer but I found I actually like the coconut milk now.

I lost about 40 pounds since I started my paleo journey. This did also include starting a workout routine. Life has not been the same and I don’t plan to ever go back to my old ways.”

Many thanks to Danielle for taking the time to share her story. If you’re interested in sharing your story, we would be honoured to hear it! Send it along to us via e-mail.