How long have you been doing keto?
Since the beginning of December 2022
What motivated you to start keto?
I went on a trip to Hawaii with my ex-boyfriend and best friend. I was 50 pounds overweight. He proceeded to hit on my best friend in front of me the entire time. I decided then and there that I never want to be fat or speak to him ever again!
What benefits/successes have you experienced?
I have lost over 40 pounds since December, starting with intermittent fasting then working my way to OMAD and several 24, 48, 72-hour fasts. I LOVE the fasting lifestyle and could not have succeeded without Dr. Mindy Pelz.
What was the hardest part?
Having gone through menopause, as well as having some thyroid issues, I have had to do several extended fasts to break through my weight loss stalls. Currently, I have about 10 pounds to go and have stalled even while fasting. I am now using the recommended supplements for my liver and heavy metal detoxing, plus probiotics to reset my gut health.
What were the keys or top tools to your success?
Dr. Paltz talks a lot about the “Why”. As big a motivator as the weight loss is, curing my addiction to processed flour and sugars as well as alcohol has changed my life. I also took a lot of time to build up to the longer fasts. I love doing my lemon water and Apple Cider Vinegar waters – my new cocktail during my fasts. If I am struggling with just the water, that will usually get me past the 24-hour marker. I also make a plan- how long am I going to fast as well as doing Dr. Pelz’s 4-step process to break the fast so I don’t binge and get a tummy ache which has happened to me before. So I plan to have a hot liquid, as I only eat fish, so I make a nice Miso or chai tea. Then I will eat a little sauerkraut for my probiotics. Then as I am not a huge fan of avocado for the fat- I usually have a big salad with avocado or EVOO. Then possibly a little protein if I am still hungry.
Did you measure your ketones and/or glucose and if so, how did that help you?
I used the sticks and actually was getting worried I had too many ketones. I am still trying to figure that out. I think I may get the meter from you all.
What’s your favorite keto recipe? Please provide a link if available.
- My favorite meal is poached salmon with a micro green salad with dandelion or kale greens- toasted pumpkin seeds and favorite nut, cucumbers, red onion, and feta. I make a lemon thyme dressing with it. Sometimes I’ll add a little parmesan or Dijon mustard to the dressing.
- I also make this wonderful bread of just seeds and nuts. It is great to freeze and make toast with. I omit the oats and add a bit more psyllium, pumpkin seeds, and ground almonds.
https://food52.com/recipes/28886-my-new-roots-life-changing-loaf-of-bread - I also do the all-seed crackers.
- My chia coconut puddings – vanilla and chocolate. Nut and seed granola
- Lots of frittatas with broccoli or spinach and cheese.
- A lot of Indian and Thai curries as well.
What tips or words of wisdom can you share?
I have been struggling for the past several years to lose the weight I have gained from menopause. Intermittent fasting and Keto have been the keys to reestablishing my health and well-being. I also watch Dr. Pelz’s YouTube videos in the evening to keep me motivated and on track.
Getting rid of processed foods for good has been the best thing I have ever done for my health. I have never felt more clear in my mind and body.
