The amateur has gone, dare I say it, Paleo...

Long time no write.

Some people have been asking about the blog, and yes, it's been awhile, but I'm still here and cooking strong. Almost 10 months later, and Zack and I have embraced a new cooking lifestyle and fitness routine, and we are feeling healthier than ever.

I guess I hesitated to write about it because, you know, the term "Paleo" and "primal" can elicit a quick eye roll from some audiences. Some people may even view it as a "fad diet."

What does "Paleo" mean exactly? 

In actuality, eating Paleo or primal has been around for a long time, hence its reference to the Paleolithic era, or mimicking the diet of our ancestors who suffered from fewer chronic diseases and illnesses in comparison to our current population. Really, it's simple. Eat whole foods that better fuel your body for life, while avoiding processed and refined foods. Strive for low-carbohydrate, low-sugar, and good fats. I think the fats part is what throws people off; basically, when you eat lots of carbs and sugars, your body uses them for energy and stores any fats consumed. If you eliminate the carbs and sugars, your body will burn and use fats for energy.

Now we could go down to the microbiologic and chemical levels, in terms of explaining why our bodies thrive off eating this way, but we will leave it at that for now. It's a learning process.

Cabbage/broccoli/carrot slaw - perfect under meatballs or pulled pork.

Green chile turkey meatballs with chipotle sauce, guacamole, and slaw.

Beef bourguignon - great to serve over broccoli or broccolini.

"Zoodles" - shredded zucchini and yellow squash - great substitute for pasta.

Why?

And now you're wondering; how on earth did we get into this, and why would I leave behind some of the pretty delicious recipes I've blogged here previously. I guess Zack and I have been inspired, first and foremost, by my dad. A few years ago, he suffered from some heart-related events and what doctors would deem "cholesterol issues." As a result, he has changed his lifestyle, embraced a Paleo diet, and now his blood work is near perfect and he is on limited medications. Furthermore, he is decreasing his risk of future heart events which could be detrimental to his life. It just proves, you are what you eat.

I took it seriously when I read that a woman's risk of cardiovascular events is twice as much if she has a parent who suffered from early cardiovascular disease. That's me. And the family history doesn't stop there for me; it goes back further. I want to live a long, full life and be healthy enough to run around with my grandkids, and maybe great grandkids. I think Zack took it seriously when he entered a Biggest Loser contest at work and saw the pounds just drop off him as a result of eating low-carb, low-sugar. He noticed a difference, and other people noticed a difference. It's one of those things - if you see and like the results (looking, feeling, and performing well) and you can still make good tasting, comforting food you enjoy, why not do it?

BBQ shredded chicken with slaw.

Crispy sweet potato roast - good carbs for post-workout.

Paleo staple - kraut.

Now. Being the major foodies that Zack and I are, you would think embracing this lifestyle would be a serious downer for us. I mean, I love pasta. And bread is pretty good too. Essentially, Zack and I cook based on the primal lifestyle and engage in CrossFit for exercise all through the week - Monday through Friday. When we are in town, we will cook at home on the weekends a bit, but we like to relax and enjoy a couple meals out (to eat whatever we want, within reason). Furthermore, eating primal is not always convenient when you are with friends or family who are on different diets. So we don't sweat about it. Enjoy your life and live to the fullest, while taking care and fueling your body the best you can.

Steaks - great with roasted brussels sprouts or a hearty kale salad.

What else?

You will be surprised though. When you do eat this way, things that aren't very good for you are no longer as appealing. I have my weaknesses. Donuts are the greatest thing ever. But at the same time, pancakes and French toast are something I used to love, that I could now easily pass on now. You begin to crave foods that are good and satisfying to your body and health.

If you have health issues that are impacting your daily life, or a stubborn few pounds you just can't seem to shed, it may be worth a try. One thing to remember though is this - it's not just a "diet," it's really a lifestyle and a point of view.

Okay, I'm going to get off this soap box and go eat some bacon, or throw around some kettle bells or something.

May good food be with you.

(Oh, and in regards to the blog...I have no commitments at this moment. There may be a post, here and there, but I can't guarantee anything. Between work, cooking, CrossFit, trying to read and expand my mind, and friends and family to keep up with, among other things like travel and hobbies, the blogging (as much as I love it) can go by the wayside. We'll see where it goes. Cheers.)

Dark chocolate bark with nuts, seeds, flaked coconut, and sea salt.