Karen has been a member of The Best You for 120+ days. She was encouraged to join the group after following the successes of a friend and a fellow member. She was starting to feel out of control with health issues and was hoping to avoid medicines. Since being in the group, Karen has lost 20 lbs, eliminated daily blood pressure meds and has reduced pain. Keep reading Karen's full story...can you relate?
Karen B - before
Karen B - now
Where do you live (city/state)? Kelly, LA
What is your WHY for joining The Best You and eating AIP? Do you have a specific diagnosis? I have always been healthy but had put on weight over the years.
I was diagnosed with high blood pressure and I hate to take medicine, so I knew I needed to lose weight. I also would bloat up after eating to the point of looking pregnant. I felt bad about myself because I couldn't control my weight and tried several different diets (especially Keto) which did not work.
"I felt like I was losing control and my health was going to go downhill fast."
I felt like I was losing control and my health was going to go downhill fast.
How did you learn about The Best You? My friend, June (also a member and fellow AIP warrior), told me about the AIP protocol and the support group that had helped her so much.
Then one Friday morning, she said she was going to start The Best You! I knew I had to join!
Share your successes!! I followed the program and was surprised that even though I was eating fruit I was losing weight. I am 5'3" and started out at 146#. I now weigh 127#. I take my blood pressure meds only if I get upset. I don't bloat anymore or have indigestion and I don't have as much pain from an old shoulder injury.
"I followed the program and was surprised that even though I was eating fruit I was losing weight."
Have you re-introduced any foods yet? If yes, what and what were the results? I have reintroduced nuts and drink Almond milk. So far I know I'll never be able to have dairy or rice again.
What tricks/tips made this life easier? Since I work 4 days a week and commute an hour each way, I juice one day a week and freeze it. I take my salads to work for lunch so I won't be tempted to order out.
List your top AIP go-to meals... My go-to meals are salads, sweet potatoes with Nutiva Coconut Butter, and banana/spinach smoothies.
List your favorite AIP snacks... I snack on a few nuts and fruit.
How do you stay AIP compliant outside your home (work, social gatherings, traveling, etc)? I haven't traveled since I started this, but there is usually something you can eat at a restaurant.
I would definitely take my juice with me if I traveled. Along with some sweet potatoes - which I could take or leave before but love now. Funny how our tastes change!
What other lifestyle implements have helped with your success (sleep, stress management, exercise)? When diagnosed with high blood pressure I started walking 30 min. 5 days a week on the treadmill. Once I started AIP, I kind of slipped on this just trying to keep up with the juicing, doing more cooking, etc., but I am now getting back into the routine.
"If you follow the instructions and show up for Tracey's Tuesday Lives, you will do well."
What advice would you give to someone just starting The Best You? If you follow the instructions and show up for Tracey's Tuesday lives, you will do well. I am so glad I did!
If you are inspired by Karen and want to learn more about The Best You, click HERE to learn more and join our group!
Or if you are a current member with more than 60 days, please submit your story HERE to be featured as an AIP Warrior!