by Veggiehead » Sun Aug 16, 2009 7:21 am
Hi Jeff and everyone,
I am a longtime vegetarian---found Dr. McDougall when I was 15yrs. old perusing the bookshelf of the then Mrs. Gooche's in L.A.
I'm 48 now and perimenopausal. Everything is not as it should be (i.e., water retention, weight gain--hormones?--likely). I exercise regularly.
Jeff--I have read your explanations of GI foods, etc. and really believe in a plant-based diet for ethical and health reasons, however, I wonder (since I believe this is the case for me) if it's possible to NOT be able to handle all of the rice, potatoes, and other complex carbs advocated by the plan? Maybe certain complex carbs. are preferable (sweet p. vs. russet idea)?
I have begun thinking about shifting to less complex carbs (even though I love them) to more veggies, fruit, and plant-based proteins. I just don't feel good--I'm retaining water like crazy and it's so strange to me since my overall diet is superior to the average bear's!
Typically, I eat:
Whole grain cereal (the real deal) or oatmeal with fruit and a dollop of soy yogurt for breakfast
Lunch is often times a huge salad with a tlb. of mixed raw nuts and perhaps a dollop of hummus or a piece of tempeh--I used to have rice or a potato too but, now I'm shifting to a tortilla or something with less carbs since I'm not feeling so hot.
Dinner is veggies of all kinds and potato--rice--and then BLOAT.
I do drink decaf coffee and have a glass of wine at night.
I used to eat a chocolate tofu mousse for dessert but, have switched to fruit in an attempt to cut out kcals, sugar, and fat.
Thoughts? Oh, very strange--I'm also craving eggs.
Thanks very much for any advice or suggestions.
Right now, I'm going to experiment with less of the complex carbs but, your recs. would be invaluable to me.
Regards,
V.H.
"Until we extend our circle of compassion to all living things, humanity with never find peace."
Albert Schweitzer