So this is the summary of what my experience has been after completing Week One on the "Get Forking Skinny Meal Plan", which I started on January 6th.
With all of my past dieting experiences, I was prepared and ready to feel hunger. However, I was pleasantly surprised! I found that after having breakfast, I didn't need my morning snack and after dinner, didn't really need an evening snack. Most days however, I would have the afternoon snack. I'm not so sure if this was due to real hunger or the stress I was feeling at work. The snack I particularly love is an ounce of Krave Basil Citrus Turkey Jerky - it is absolutely delicious, is pure protein with no ingredients you can't pronounce, and only 80 calories per ounce!
Also, I found the recipes on the plan to be tasty and satisfying! I did have to step out of my comfort zone, though. Having grown up with the belief that sweet potatoes should only be eaten at Thanksgiving with marshmallows on top, I was skeptical, to say the least, about the Sweet Potato & Black Bean Tacos. However, they were truly delicious and satisfying. I have officially been enlightened and look forward to trying sweet potatos in other recipes.
Additionally, I was not expecting the Rainbow Detox Salad to fill me up at lunch, due to its lack of protein. However, this was probably my favorite recipe this week! The avocado added a somewhat creamy texture to the salad, which was a nice compliment to the crunchy slaw. I used a calorie-free sesame ginger dressing which was the perfect compliment. I would probably eat this salad every day if I could!
I have discovered the wonder of chia! I learned that it "puffs up" in the Chia Fresca water and really helps to keep you full throughout the day. I also learned of the many nutrients contained in chia and that ancient tribes used it for sustenance when they would go on long hunts due to the energy it provided as well helping them to feel full. I ended up adding it to my Tomato Basil soup and my brown rice that was served with the Chicken Cordon Bleu (which was also delightful).
I've never been so satisfied by any diet I have EVER tried before (Maybe that's cause it's not a diet, mom! - Amanda.) In terms of feeling full and satisfied, especially with the wonderful taste of the food I am eating. This meal plan has truly been enjoyable so far!
My husband is actually cooperating with this meal plan and is enjoying the recipes as well. I'm looking forward to seeing what next week's plan brings and will check in again next Monday. The best news of all is that I lost 2 pounds this week without suffering at all! Feeling Fabulous and Forking Skinnier!