Cleaning Out the Fridge: My New Grocery List

I am still in a lot of pain. I had to use vicodin today, which I thought I was done with. However, I also want to be done with days of feeling agonizing pains.

I think the best thing I can do is once again focus on the food I am putting into my body. I am going to clean out my fridge tomorrow and buy new foods. Gluten free foods. Sugar free foods. Healthy, simple foods.

Meanwhile, as I have known for a while, I think being mostly vegetarian is hurting me. I am just not getting enough protein. I firmly believe that vegetarianism and even veganism is a great plan for most people. But because I can eat neither soy/tofu NOR beans and lentils, it is more challenging for me.

I agreed with Derek that now that i have some income, it is fair for me to take on grocery shopping. Derek can obviously supplement my list with things he wants and needs, but I will enjoy doing the bulk of the shopping, cooking, and food planning in this house :)

ELIZABETH BEIER'S CLEAN, DELICIOUS AND SIMPLE GROCERY LIST:
(I will need to focus on the in season options, but the list is comprehensive)

1. VEGGIES.
--> Lots of baby spinach, to eat EVERY day.
--> Kale
--> Broccoli (I will check actually, I may have frozen broccoli now)
--> Sweet Potatoes
--> Corn
--> Bell Peppers
--> Mushrooms
--> Beets
--> Carrots (fresh - the ones in the fridge now are old)
--> Asparagus (got to learn how to cook that!)
--> Artichokes
--> Scallions
--> Leeks
--> Cucumbers
--> Green Beans
--> Squash
--> Red Onion
--> Celery
--> Garlic
--> Pomegranates

2. FRUITS.
--> Gala or Figi apples
--> Pears
--> Apricots (if can find them)
--> Strawberries
--> Blueberries
--> Plums
--> Avocado

3. NON-GLUTEN GRAINS.
--> Brown Rice
--> Quinoa
--> Brown rice/quinoa based pastas
--> Irish Oatmeal

4. Proteins
--> Eggs
--> Shrimp
--> Chicken Breast (this makes me sad, but it will be good for my health)
--> Salmon
--> Almond Milk

5. OTHERS
--> Unsalted almonds, cashews, and peanuts (other nuts off limits bc of IC)
--> Guacamole
--> Hummus
--> Non-Stick Cooking Spray
--> Extra Virgin Olive Oil
--> Sugar Substitute (like Agave nectar)
--> Chia Seeds
--> Cheese: ONLY high quality, low fat cheddar
--> Nutritional Yeast

6. SUPPLEMENTS
--> Omega 3
--> Passionflower

I already have a lot of spices. I think between the spices and these ingredients, I will be healthier and happier and in less pain!

I am also considering hiring a personal trainer for a few days to help me correct my form during strength training. I think some of my aches and pains each day might be from doing those exercises incorrectly...

Between these healthy steps, I am on my way to completing my one year health makeover in a strong fashion! I started at around July 18. Obviously this won't journey won't stop there. But, I would like to be at my goal weight at that point. Then I will start my own "Phase Two" just like Aunt Roberta :)