Chapter 1: Embracing Change

Today marks the second day of my 100-Day weight loss journey, which began yesterday, July 18th. I set one major goal and two smaller objectives for the week. The primary goal is to experiment with intermittent fasting to see if it can be a sustainable part of my lifestyle. My two mini-goals are: 1. Replace unhealthy snacks with healthier options and 2. Consume 64 ounces of water daily. While I haven't been entirely successful so far, I've gained valuable insights over the past two days.

Today, I discovered that I can easily drink 32 ounces of water before leaving work. Additionally, I've realized that my food intake at work has been inadequate. Yesterday and today, I not only consumed some of the planned foods but also strayed from the menu. I'm not overly strict with my meal plan; if I crave something else, I eat it. The real issue lies in the quantity of food consumed.

Here's my intended meal plan for today: - Breakfast: Oatmeal with maple syrup and yogurt - Lunch: Mango and baby carrots with hummus - Snack: Roasted edamame and a Balanced Break snack - Dinner: Tuna salad with broccoli - Water: 64 ounces

What I actually consumed was a bit different: - One whole mango (sliced) - Strawberry salad with roasted edamame (originally planned for yesterday) - Lean Cuisine spinach mushroom pizza - Lean Cuisine four cheese pizza (I admit, I ate both pizzas at once) - Chobani vanilla yogurt - Homemade lemonade - Homemade lemon green tea - Water: 32 ounces

The only difference between yesterday and today? Nothing. I overindulged both days, driven by hunger after work. However, I've gleaned a few critical lessons that could aid my journey ahead.

What I've learned so far: Intermittent fasting, when practiced correctly, isn't overly challenging. I've experienced bursts of energy during these two days. As a Muslim, I’m accustomed to long hours without food or water from dawn to dusk. Intermittent fasting mirrors the fasts observed during Ramadan and on certain Mondays and Thursdays, where we eat from sundown to just before dawn, with the fasting period in between. The key distinction is that, with intermittent fasting, we can hydrate with water, unsweetened tea, or black coffee.

Snacks Are Not Meals! (Repeat this as necessary)

Planning meals at the beginning can be incredibly tough! I’ve returned home from work twice now with an appetite akin to that of an elite athlete. As I rummage through the fridge, I often grab the first snack that catches my eye, leading to a downward spiral. Today, I managed to control my snacking because I had TWO MINI PIZZAS! Clearly, I need to adjust my meal plan to include more filling and nutritious options for both work and home.

As I reflect on this, I've realized that in my effort to swap unhealthy snacks for healthier ones, I've inadvertently transformed those healthy snacks into full meals. It’s a tricky balancing act! I've also noticed that I tend to lean heavily on fruits due to my sweet cravings. I need to incorporate more nourishing meals rich in protein and other essential nutrients to support my progress.

I've found that I can easily drink 32 ounces of water while at work, but once home, hydration often slips my mind.

There's still a long road ahead, but my motivation remains intact! I am determined not to give up on myself. As my mantra goes, "I will not give up on myself." Tomorrow, I plan to cut back on snacks and focus on two nutritious meals. Here’s my updated meal plan for tomorrow (July 20th, 2022):

Wednesday, July 20th Updated Meal Plan: - Breakfast: Banana, apples with peanut butter, lemon green tea, vanilla yogurt - Lunch: Guacamole sandwich with steamed lemon pepper broccoli - Snack: Balanced Break snack and one cup of cherries - Dinner: Tuna salad - Water: 64 ounces

This plan looks much healthier than before. Now, the challenge is to stick to it, avoid overeating, and stay hydrated.

You’ve got this, Safiyyah! Don’t lose heart! Let’s go!

Chapter 2: Reflections and Adjustments

Stay tuned for more insights and progress updates on my journey!