The night of...

It's 10:15 pm prior to our first day of the 30-day cleanse. Not as intimidating this time around. So we did this in January of this year, and I was a bit apprehensive then. However, I had gained weight during the holidays and in need of a change - but no dairy, no beer (ugh), no caffeine (double ugh), no gluten (who cares I thought, initially - gluten is in EVERYTHING) and no sugar...that was all serious.

However, it really worked. Not only did I lose almost 40 pounds, but it helped me establish good eating habits. I was able to accomplish through diet alone what I could not do the summer before training for 4 triathlons (sprints that is). I also realized dairy was the biggest culprit, and I have continued to watch my intake.

Having kept the majority of the weigh off (30 pounds at least), I am not as apprehensive knowing what is possible. I also look forward to incorporating a strong exercise routine which I did not do previously.

I have to give all the credit to my wife who was the driver the first time around and now again this time around. Here we go...

But first remember to prepare. She printed out all the recipes and shopping lists which makes it easy to reference (and therefore stick) to the healthy diet even after the cleanse is over. The food is actually good, and I admit that not having to think much (if at all) about the breakfast and lunches is very nice on a busy schedule. So make sure to prepare.