It's all Grey...

Just not 50 shades of it, so don't go getting any ideas.

We spent most of the long weekend in Pinawa with Erich's family. It was good to be out of the city, but, as it almost always does when we were there, it rained. It wasn't so bad though, I got in a few movies and a little extra reading time. I spent a lot of time going through Aglaee Jacob's Digestive Health with Real Food. It's a great read as far as health/food books go-very thorough. Yet, it all leaves me feeling like I'm no further and no closer to a solution. There is so much symptom overlap. As I was saying...it's all grey. 

I'm told to try an alkalizing diet, while trying to eat a low FODMAP diet at the same time. It's almost impossible-there is so much overlap! I'm finding it incredibly difficult to know which one to be more diligent with. Beans are a no-no for FODMAP sufferers, yet meat is highly acidic. That leaves no protein...if you were to be diligent with both (I've still been eating meat). When trying to alkalize your body it's best to follow an 80/20 rule. What the heck does that look like?? 

So, what have I been doing?? I have had either a green juice or smoothie every morning. I am really enjoying this and after a week I am starting to notice more sustainable energy throughout my day (although I will take the option of a nap if possible). I have been trying to do more at home exercise...this has involved some Youtube videos, walks, a run and a bike ride this week. This one will be mentally harder to maintain. I can talk myself into and out of a lot, especially when I feel tired. It initially feels counter-intuitive to get my body moving when all I want to do is not move. It's also learning the fine balance of work vs rest.

I have also been avoiding the major FODMAP triggers like onions, garlic, asparagus, leeks, apples, mangoes and pears (to name some major former players in my diet). I think it's helping...when I compare this past to week to my initial elimination I am feeling significantly better. But I still don't know. I've had lots of 'cheats' and I have had lots of 'acidic' foods. I know I do better when someone tells me exactly what to do! I'm useless when left to my own devices!

I also run to my comforts when life gets hairy (or possibly when i'm left to my own devices:)). As it decided to do this Tuesday after the long weekend morning. It was a rough start after a great weekend. One of those kids are screaming, and/or having a meltdown so I have a tantrum too kind of morning. So naturally, after getting bleach on my two new favourite pieces of clothing I went and got an Americano with cream. It hit the spot that's for sure. I don't feel guilty about it-I just don't know if I'm causing major setbacks. We're back to the grey on that one. So, if someone could please just come and tell me exactly what to do...that'd be great. :)