Pantry Staples

One of the key ways I keep from "falling off the wagon" is making sure my pantry and fridge are clear of those not so good for you foods. Out of sight out of mind, right?? RIGHT! Having healthy foods around you at all times is one of the main ways to help keep you on track on your journey towards success!  I know it can be difficult when you have kids in your house, however, if you get them started eating healthy and always have certain "snacks" readily available for all of you, it's that much easier!  Your kids learn best by example, and if you're engaging in healthy eating habits, they will eventually follow your lead.

I made the following list today based on what I have in my pantry and use on a regular basis:

Cooking fat
- olive oil - extra virgin and extra light tasting (for mayo)
- coconut oil
- ghee
(there are others that are Whole30 approved, but I stick to these)

Liquids
- balsamic vinegar - together with EVOO makes a great salad dressing and is an ingredient in many recipes
- coconut aminos - tastes similar to soy sauce but is derived from coconut and Whole30 approved
- coconut milk - comes in a can, great in a lot of recipes.  I use GOYA brand, unsweetened, NOT light
- canned tomatoes and tomato paste - I like Muir Glen brand at HEB

Nuts & Seeds
- almonds
- almond butter - grind your own at the grocery store, most already-made almond butters in a jar contain      sugar
- cashews
- walnuts
- sunflower seeds
- pumpkin seeds
(whatever other nuts/seeds you like - NOT peanuts)

Flours, etc.
- almond flour/meal
- coconut flour
- coconut flakes and/or shredded coconut (unsweet) - toasted coconut flakes are an awesome "treat" and coconut adds great crunch to a lot of foods

*most recipes that call for almond or coconut flour are not Whole30 approved because they're for baking or "paleo-fying" foods.  Make sure you familiarize yourself with the Whole30 program and rules so you can tell the difference.  Good rule of thumb, if you're baking it (muffins, pancakes, tortillas, cupcakes, crackers, etc.) it's not Whole30.  These things can be used as a "crust" for meat and fish, for example.

Seasoning/Spices
So many people think doing a Whole30 means their food will be bland and tasteless.  It's exactly the opposite!  Your food is what you make of it, so season it up, get creative, and add some flavor.  Read your labels and make sure you are staying away from sugar, MSG, and anything you cannot pronounce.  Here are some of my favorites that I keep on hand:

Day 5 Food Log:

Wake up/"pre camp" - a few bites of green chili pork, apples & almond butter

Meal 1 - shredded chicken (made last week in the crockpot using boneless, skinless chicken breast and salsa), chicken and broccoli casserole, and mini egg pizzas.  I like to mix it up sometimes and have a little bit of several things!

Meal 2 - green chili pork, roasted green beans and carrots, tomato soup

post workout - shredded turkey meat and handful of nuts

Meal 3 - "deconstructed" burger - lettuce with beef burger patty, avocado, sun-dried tomatoes, and pico, sweet potato, and kale with a kick.  I usually add a fried egg to the top of my burger, but I RAN OUT yesterday (horror!)

*I should have eaten more at lunch today, and since I had a late lunch I did not eat a "pre-workout" snack.  I made up for it with my dinner!  I had good energy this morning when I woke up, which does not happen very often.  I woke up feeling well-rested and my energy level was up and consistent all day : )  This is what happens when you eat nutrient dense food! #WUTWUT

WATER ALL DAY!