Help w/ getting myself healthy again please....

[BlueStateMama]

I really would love input on taking my overall health back over.  I've always been athletic, cooked our meals, eaten well and generally taken care of myself, until I started a downward slide this past November.  We started eating more take out, I started blowing off my workouts, drinking way less water, drinking too much wine (not to the point of clinical concern, but enough to give me a belly and I know I'm just doing it because I do feel down and low and chunky - vicious cycle there)....now I've gained 10 pounds, my moods have been depressed, I'm sleepy all day and have insomnia at night and I just feel awful.  I am really ready to revamp my health and take charge of it again.  I'm not sure if I should start with a detox of kinds (would prefer a food or juice based approach v. fasting)

Has anyone been through this and what has worked for you? 

It's not really a total lifestyle change in that I was used to being healthful up until this past year, but more of a need to SERIOUSLY kickstart a return to "me." 

Everyone's input is welcome!

Thank you

[BlueStateMama]

I need to add - I was just diagnosed w/ an autoimmunity issue (gyn related) and addressing my immune issue is of concern as well.

[Deir]

Well- I just got diagnosed a few months ago with Interstitial Cystitis and it may be partially autoimmune in nature. This has been a real kick in the stomach for me because I have always tried to be very healthy but I am learning that so much of this issue probably stemmed from things in my early 20's- the pill, UTIs antibiotics. Anyway- you are so smart to use this as a wake up call and get yourself on track.

My advice is cut out all sugar, alcohol and  processed food if you can. Cutting way back on carbs is probably a good idea.

[Marnica]

I agree - get back to the healthful diet that you used to be on. Cut out sugar, processed foods and I would cut out dairy for a while too. I would totally do a cleanse - I have done both fasting and juice cleanses and I can't deal with the fasting ones! There are soo mnay options, Id take some time and research what might be best for you. I like Zeolite as a cleanse.

Id also get back to regular exercise and I would incorporate some kind of relaxation or meditation as well. Do you do Yoga?

Your attitude plays a huge role in your life and it seems that you are on a negativity merry go round. Have you read the book "The Secret" by Rhonda Byrne? If not I highly reccomend it!

http://thesecret.tv/

Good Luck and feel better :)

[ameliabedelia]

I would start with dietary changes and then add exercise back in.   Cut out sugar and reduce grains (especially wheat based grains) and carbs. Eat lots of protein and drink plenty of water.

[mexicali mami]

Me too! I was doing so well and now I'm at the point where I just need a total diet/lifestyle overhaul.  One of the best things you can do is add a green smoothie to your diet.  I remember when I first started drinking them daily it helped me make other healthful changes as well.    A 30 day cleanse of all sugar, alcohol, and grains would be great too but that may be a little ambitious for me right now.  Sometimes it;s easier to add something good, than take away something negative (and yummy!)