Advocare 24 Day Challenge Day: 20 & 21

I have been so busy this weekend, I can't believe I am actually sitting down at this point!  I feel bad that I haven't been able to blog, as I have been on the go and feel like I barely had any time to think!  I am coming to the end of my challenge, and I will try and to weight/measurements on Wednesday, but pending on how the "week" is going, I might have to push it off until towards the end of the week.  I don't want added factors to affect my true results.

Day 20

Upon Waking:  (3) Catalyst followed by 8 oz water, MNS color vitamin pack with Fruit Punch Spark

Breakfast (30 minutes After SPARK):  MNS vitamin packs  + Chocolate Mocha Meal Replacement Shake

Mid-Morning Snack:  banana

30 Minutes Before Lunch  MNS color vitamin pack

Lunch:  Garden Salad with evoo and balsamic, small bowl chicken noodle soup

Mid-Afternoon Snack:  Apple

Dinner:  Turkey Meatloaf (this was sooo yummy!) from the 24 Day Challenge Cookbook, Roasted potatoes, and frozen peas + (2) Omegaplex

Exercise:  (3) Catalyst with Fruit Punch SPARK taken 10 minutes prior, Jillian Michaels Total Body Revolution:  Cardio

Total Water Consumed:  92 oz

Day 21

Upon Waking:  (3) Catalyst followed by 8 oz water, MNS color vitamin pack + Fruit Punch SPARK

Breakfast (30 Minutes After SPARK):  Chocolate Mocha Meal Replacement Shake + MNS vitamin packs

Mid-Morning Snack:  banana

30 minutes before lunch:  MNS color vitamin pack

Lunch:  Leftover Turkey Meatloaf, potatoes and peas, garden salad with evoo and balsamic

Mid-afternoon snack:  Apple and PB2

Cheat snacks:  a few potato chips, tortilla chips & salsa and a handful of gluten free pretzels

Dinner:  Cheese-less pizza:  Whole grain flatbread with sauce, spinach and broccoli + (2) Omegaplex

Exercise:  Rest Day

Total Water Consumed:  88 oz

Overall Thoughts:  I am quite honestly nervous about what my results are going to be  I know people keep saying don't go by the scale, and I haven't weighed myself, but when I was at the doc last week, I had to get weighed.  I wasn't really happy.  I am not seeing a dramatic drop on the scale like others have.  I realize the 24DC works differently for everyone, but I can't say it doesn't affect my mindset when I don't see the scales tipping.  I feel like I have been doing everything right with exercising my butt off, and eating the right foods.  So, why not a dramatic difference for me?  Like I said, maybe when I step on that scale Wednesday morning I will have a shock, and maybe my measurements will show for something.  I'm trying to be positive, but with seeing so many other dramatic results and hearing pounds dropping off of friends of friends on Day 6, I am confused and wonder why am I failing?  I'm not saying anything bad about Advocare, but I must be doing something wrong, but no one seems to know what....

Advocare 24 Day Challenge Day: 19

Upon Waking:  (3) Catalyst followed by 8 oz. water; MNS color vitamin pack with Fruit Punch SPARK

Breakfast (30 Minutes AFTER SPARK):  Chocolate Mocha Meal Replacement Shake + MNS vitamin packs

Mid-Morning Snack:  Banana

30 Minutes Before Lunch:  MNS color vitamin pack

Lunch:  Whole Grain Rotini with corn and carrots, garden salad with evoo and balsamic vinegar

Mid-Afternoon Snack:  Sunflower Seeds + Apple

Dinner:  PB2 on whole grain bread, garden salad with chicken, evoo and balsamic vinegar + 2 Omegaplex

Evening Snack:  Bowl of mango

Exercise:  (3) Catalyst with Fruit Punch SPARK taken 10 min prior; Jillian Michaels Total Body Revolution Workout: 4

Total Water Consumed:  96 oz (I was feeling super bloated yesterday!)

Overall Thoughts:  Only 5 days left of the challenge!  I can't believe I am on the home stretch.  I have been super hungry and pretty bloated yesterday and today, so I am just pushing through the symptoms and trying to make the best of them.  Sometimes being a girl has its "dis" advantages if you get my drift!   I don't know how this will affect my weigh in and measurements on Wednesday, as it might have to wait until after I am done or no longer bloated whichever comes first.  Here's to hoping for a great success in the last few days!

Advocare 24 Day Challenge Day : 18

Upon Waking: MNS vitamin color pack with 8 oz water

Breakfast (30 minutes AFTER MNS vitamin color pack):  Chocolate Mocha Meal Replacement Shake + MNS vitamin packs

Exercise:  (3) Catalyst + Fruit Punch SPARK taken 10 min prior; Jillian Michaels Total Body Revolution: Workout 3

Mid-Morning Snack:  Bowl of Mango + 1/4 cup sunflower seeds

30 Minutes Before Lunch:  MNS vitamin color pack

Lunch:  Roasted asparagus, butternut squash and onions, and small bowl chicken noodle soup

Mid-Afternoon Snack:  air-popped plain popcorn

Dinner:  Garden salad with evoo and balsamic vinegar, piece of Ezekiel raisin toast + 2 Omegaplex

Total Water Consumed:  72 oz

Overall Thoughts:  I can't believe I have less than a week to go with this challenge!  I have definitely learned so much with eating tips, and that there really is good food to eat when eating healthy, you just have to search out the recipes!  In fact, I switched to whole grain bread, and Cade (our very picky 9yr old) went into the bread drawer the other day and saw the white bread, but no whole grain, and ASKED for whole grain!  This journey has not been just a healthy stepping stone for me, but is slowly being passed to my children, who now are finding the yummy side to being healthy!  He even LOVES the Ezekiel Raisin bread.  It's these small steps that can make BIG changes!  As the message above says; "It's not about being perfect, it's about effort..."  My effort is paying off!

Advocare 24 Day Challenge Day:16 & 17

Day 16:

Upon Waking:  (3) Catalyst followed by 8 oz water; MNS color vitamin pack and Fruit Punch SPARK

Breakfast (30 Minutes After SPARK):  Chocolate Mocha Meal Replacement Shake + MNS vitamin packs

Mid-Morning Snack:  Bowl of strawberries and blackberries

30 Minutes Before Lunch:  MNS color vitamin pack 

Lunch:  (UGH!) 3 onion rings, side garden salad and 2 very small pork sliders

Dinner: Panera Power Mediterranean Chicken Salad + 2 Omegaplex

Exercise: (3) Catalyst with Fruit Punch SPARK 10 minutes prior; Jillian Michaels Total Body Revolution Work Out #4

Evening Snack:  Apple with PB2

Total Water Consumed:  64 oz

Day 17:

Upon Waking:  (3) Catalyst followed by 8 oz. water; MNS color vitamin pack and Fruit Punch SPARK

Breakfast (30 Minutes After SPARK):  Chocolate Mocha Meal Replacement Shake + MNS vitamin packs

Mid-Morning Snack:  Peach and 1 oz cheddar cheese

30 Minutes Before Lunch:  MNS color vitamin pack

Lunch:  Tuna mixed with olive oil mayo + 5 Whole Wheat Crackers, garden salad with evoo and balsamic vinegar

Exercise:  (3) Catalyst + Fruit Punch SPARK 10 minutes prior; Jillian Michaels Total Body Revolution:  Cardio

Dinner:  Chicken Satay on a stick, Pan-seared chicken topped with bruschetta in a lobster cream sauce, garden salad and a smidge of chocolate cake with peanut butter ganache.  (My husband had a campaign fundraiser at Blue, how could I resist????)

Total Water Consumed:  72 oz.

Advocare 24 Day Challenge Day: 15

Above is a comparison of the Advocare Meal Replacement Shake vs. some other brands out there.  The Meal Replacement shake is a great nutrient source and the ONLY  shake with a 1:1 ratio of protein to carbohydrates.  Why is that important?  Because studies show that a 1:1 ratio of protein to carbohydrates support weight loss AND give you sustained energy.  It also does not leave your tummy rumbling in an hour!  The shake is an important part of the Max Phase to ensure you are getting the proper amount of nutrients during the day.  You are only replacing your breakfast with this creamy delicious drink!  (Really, it's tasty!) Like many working moms out there, I barely have time to get myself ready in the morning and breakfast is always the last thing on my mind!  This makes it easy for me, and I know I am getting my chocolate fix for the day plus being energized with all the nutrients provided!

Upon Waking:  (3) Catalyst followed by 8 oz water, Fruit Punch SPARK with MNS Color Vitamin pack

Breakfast (30 minutes After SPARK):  Chocolate Mocha Meal Replacement Shake + MNS vitamin packs

Mid-Morning Snack:  3 small pretzel rods (this was a no-no, but I forgot my snack on the way out to church, and this was all that was left at the snack table)

30 Minutes Before Lunch:  MNS vitamin pack

Lunch:  Garden Salad topped with cooked chicken, evoo and balsamic vinegar, homemade baked sweet potato fries (see recipe below)

Exercise:  (3) Catalyst with Fruit Punch SPARK 10 minutes prior; Jillian Michaels Total Body Revolution Workout #3

Mid-Afternoon Snack:  Peach

Dinner:  Slow Cooker Applesauce Chicken found in the 24 Day Challenge Cookbook, baked asparagus and a side of brown rice + (2) Omegaplex

Total Water Consumed:  80 oz

Overall Thoughts:  Today I started finally feeling like myself, and it was good to work out, even though I was BEAT by the end!  I am hoping to pick up the pace, and get everything I can out of my last 9 days coming up!  I have not weighed myself since the morning of Day 11, and I will wait until the morning of Day 25 to get final measurements and weight.  I know I may sound repetitive, but I DO feel really good (aside from that small sinus thing).  If you have any inkling i knowing more, or you are ready to start your health journey, please let me know!  This is easier than I ever thought possible!  

Advocare 24 Day Challenge Days: 13 & 14

Hey Everyone!  Well, I have been out of commission the last 2 days, but I think I am finally getting back on my feet...literally! I had to go to the doctor on Friday morning due to a massive sinus infection, and my antibiotic is finally kicking in!  I was pretty much laid out all day yesterday and for the most part of today.  I started feeling "better" at about 5pm this evening.  By better, I mean that my head is not ready to explode and I can breathe about 45% through my nose!  I'm not sure about how the most of you are, but I know that as soon as I start to get healthy by eating better and exercising, I get sick!  I usually joke around saying that because of all the junk I used to eat with all the preservatives, I was preserving myself from the inside-out!  I was so well-preserved that is why I didn't get sick.  Why now you might ask?  That makes no sense...I am eating better, only drinking water (and SPARK!)  and exercising.  The explanation is, that I ate so many processed foods and drank so many chemicals, that my body is de-toxing all of the junk out!  My immune system is low because it has to learn to get all that bad toxins out, and sometimes that route is via my sinuses!  Not a great thing to go through, but if I stick with my healthy lifestyle, then my body will be healthier than ever, and my immune system will boost dramatically!  Onward and upward with my health journey!  

Here is how I coped through the last 2 days.  I was pretty good with the eating (when I actually felt like eating), but I did forgo the exercise for yesterday and today as it was basically impossible for me to get my butt off the couch! 

Day 13:

Upon Waking:    (3) Catalyst followed by 8oz water Fruit Punch SPARK with MNS vitamin color pack

Breakfast (30 minutes AFTER SPARK):  Chocolate Mocha Meal Replacement Shake + MNS vitamin packs

Doctor Visit:  Sinus infection confirmed:  875mg Augmentin/10days  

Mid-Morning Snack:  I think I slept through this one.....

30 Minutes Before Lunch:  MNS vitamin pack

Lunch:  Tuna on a garden salad with strawberries, evoo and balsamic vinegar

Mid-Afternoon Snack:  Green Apple and 1 oz cheddar cheese

Dinner:  4 oz chicken breast, cooked carrots and All-Natural Applesauce + 2 Omegaplex

Evening Snack:  Air-popped plain popcorn

Exercise:  None...wasn't going to happen!!

Total Water Consumed:  Not sure because it was hard to drink as I couldn't breathe through my nose, so I am guessing approx. 40-48oz.


Day 14:

Upon Waking:  (3) Catalyst followed by 8oz water; Fruit Punch Spark with MNS vitamin color pack

Breakfast (30 minutes AFTER SPARK):  Chocolate Mocha Meal Replacement Shake + MNS vitamin packs

Mid-Morning Snack:  Bowl of strawberries and blackberries

30 Minutes Before Lunch:  MNS vitamin pack

Lunch:  4 oz chicken breast, cooked carrots and green beans 

Dinner:  2 eggs scrambled with red bell pepper, 1 slice Ezekiel Raisin Toast + 2 Omegaplex

Evening Snack:  Green Apple with 1 oz cheddar cheese

Exercise:  Since I didn't start to feel better until this evening, I am going to forgo the exercise for today as I don't want to push it.  But I will be back at it tomorrow!

Total Water Consumed: I'm still drinking, but I wanted to get this blog done early so I can really get a good night's rest.  I am estimating that I will be at 64 oz for the day.  Once again, it is still hard to breathe through my nose, so drinking is really hard!  Who knew?  LOL.  

Advocare 24 Day Challenge Day:12

This is going to be a short one because unfortunately I am not feeling well and have a horrible sinus infection...so it's an early night and off to bed I go!

Upon Waking:  (3) Catalyst + MNS Color Pack, + Fruit Punch SPARK

Breakfast (30 minutes After SPARK):  Chocolate Mocha Meal Replacement Shake + MNS vitamin packs

Mid-Morning Snack:  Apple with PB2

30 Minutes Before Lunch:  MNS Vitamin Pack

Lunch:  1 egg scrambled, cantaloupe

Exercise:  I had to really push myself to do this because I was feeling super crappy at this point!
                 (3) Catalyst + Strawberry Mango SPARK 10 minutes prior to exercise
                 Jillian Michaels Total Body Revolution Workout 2

Dinner:  Whole Grain Rotini with sauce and a garden salad with evoo and balsamic vinegar + (2) Omegaplex

Overall Thoughts:  So this morning I took my picture and I couldn't believe what I saw, especially because I don't feel like I look different.  Also, considering I only lost 1/2 pound and barely any inches, I was pleasantly surprised when I put the Day 1 vs. Day 10 pictures side by side!  You can be  the judge, but something is definitely happening to my mid-section, and I couldn't be happier!  Woo Hoo!  If this happened in 10 days, I can't wait to see the pictures at Day 24!  

Advocare 24 Day Challenge Day: 11

What doesn't kill you makes your stronger, and that I am!  I am stronger in mind, body and soul and have grown over the past 10 days to learn that I deserve better health!  This song inspires me to go out and grab your dream, and don't stop working until you get it!  

I didn't get the results I wanted out of the Cleanse Phase, but there are a few possible reasons, and I'm not making excuses.  

1) Maybe I didn't have that much "cleansing" to do!  Surprising I know because of all the "crap" I ate beforehand.

2)  I have been working out 6 days/week, so I could be building muscle (which weighs more than fat).

3) After really learning more about the products and Advocare, the Cleanse Phase isn't really about losing weight. It is more of a preparation phase that rids the boy of toxins to get ready for the Max Phase.

4) I should stop comparing my results with others I've seen, since my body is different!  I might not have had that much water weight to lose!

So, what were my results?  Well, I only lost 1/2 pound on the scale.  This doesn't mean that the system isn't working.  It just means I get to look forward to some really great results in the future, and most of all, I get to continue on this journey and continue to get healthier!
I know you were all expecting AMAZING results. Honestly I was hoping too, but we will just have to stay tuned and hope for those in the next 14 days!  I will tell you that Matt has had some great results and he isn't even working out (other than the run he took this morning!)  He has lost 3 lbs and a Total of 3 1/2 inches over his body!  Good for him!  He has been a tremendous support system and I thank him and love him so much for doing this with me!

Upon Waking:  Strawberry-Mango SPARK + (3) Catalyst + MNS Color Pack vitamins

Breakfast(30 minutes AFTER SPARK):  Chocolate Mocha Meal Replacement Drink + MNS vitamin Packs

Mid-Morning Snack:  Banana

30 minutes Before Lunch:  MNS vitamins pack

Lunch:  Garden Salad with grilled chicken, evoo and balsamic vinegar

Dinner:  Tuna Salad on Whole Grain Toast,  steamed broccoli

Exercise:  Strawberry-Mango SPARK + (3) Catalyst  15 minutes prior Jillian Michaels Total Body Revolution Workout 1

Total Water Consumed:  88oz

Overall Thoughts:  This was bad that I did not have at least one other snack today. The MNS Phase contains (4) vitamin packs that you take between waking up and lunch, and it contains vitamins that give you energy and also suppress your appetite.  So, both of those things happened.  I had a LOT of energy, but didn't feel like eating.  I actually had to force the banana this morning,  However, at the end of the night, my stomach is growling, and I still don't "feel" hungry, but I will probably eat to make the grumbles go away.  Tomorrow I hope to be better on top of the schedule!  

Advocare 24 Day Challenge Day: 10

Overall Thoughts:  I'm starting with this section to note that your "end may sometimes be your beginning."  Today marked the final day of the Cleanse Phase!  NO MORE FIBER DRINKS!!  Ok, quite honestly they weren't that bad!  I am excited to start the Max Phase tomorrow and really start seeing results!  Tomorrow morning is weigh-in...I'm not sure what to expect, as I can see little changes happening, but since I have been working out 6 days/week, I could be building muscle which won't make the scale go down.  In any case, what I DO know is that I have continued energy throughout my day, I do not have any sugary cravings, and I have the DETERMINATION  to finish this challenge even if I don't see instant results!  

As I was driving home tonight, this weigh-in has been weighing heavily on my mind...(no Pun intended!)  As you have read before, I have tried dieting and eating healthy and I have never seen instant results, so I gave up.  The key is NOT to give up but to have the COURAGE and STRENGTH to carry on and surpass the Giant you are facing.  In thinking about this, a song came on by Casting Crowns.  It was "The Voice of Truth."  God couldn't have put a better song on the radio at that moment to encourage me not to give up, but to TRUST and listen to HIM and hear HIS TRUTH!  If you listen to this song, it tells a story of someone who is faced with a challenge, and how we should not listen to the voice that reminds us of all the times we tried and failed, but to listen to the voice of truth that says, "Do not be afraid, for I am with you."  After writing this blog today, I couldn't help but underline and highlight the important words of this message and they ring true...if I lose 5 lbs, I will be ecstatic, but if I only lose 0.5 lbs, then so be it, and I will continue on and listen to my voice of truth...listen and enjoy!

Upon Waking:  Pro-Biotic Restore Ultra (followed by 8oz water), Strawberry-Mango SPARK

Pre-Breakfast (30 minutes After SPARK):  Fiber Drink (followed by 8oz water)

Breakfast:  Chocolate Mocha Meal Replacement Shake + 2 Omegaplex

Exercise:  (3) Catalyst 10 minutes prior; Jillian Michaels Total Body Revolution: Cardio

Mid-Morning Snack:  Banana

Lunch:  Leftover Turkey Chili from the 24 Day Challenge Cookbook, and (12) Food Should Taste Good Sweet Potato Tortilla Chips

Mid-Afternoon Snack:  Carrots and Red Bell Pepper

Dinner:  PB2 on toasted whole grain bread

Total Water Consumed:  80 oz

Advocare 24 Day Challenge Day: 8

Well, it's back to the Fiber Drink for 3 more times!  Today began the last stretch of the 10 day Cleanse portion of the 24DC!  I am almost to weigh-in and measurement day!  If I told you I wasn't nervous I'd be lying.  I'm not sure what to expect.  I am trying to go with low expectations, so that way if the results from the first 10 days aren't great, then I won't be disappointed.  But, I do know I have been working my butt off, and trying REALLY hard to do all my homework and drink all the water I need!
I want to make it clear that the Meal Replacement Shakes are NOT necessary for the Cleanse Portion of the Challenge.  I opted to take them, as I am not a huge breakfast person, and quite honestly I am literally running out the door late and this is a convenience thing for me!  The shakes are necessary for breakfast in the Max Phase.  Once again, this benefits me as this is EASY for me in the morning while I am typically going crazy!  Many of you have questioned if all I am doing is taking pills and shakes.  The simple answer is: NO!  I am eating, basically cutting out sugar, white-refined flour and the junk!  I can't live without carbs, so being able to still east pasta, bread and potatoes is a PLUS in my book! Here's today's rundown:

Upon Waking:  Probiotic Restore-Ultra tabs (followed by 8oz water), Fruit Punch Spark

30 Minutes After Spark:  Fiber Drink followed by 8oz water

Breakfast (30 minutes After Fiber Drink):  Chocolate Mocha Meal Replacement Shake

Mid-Morning Snack:  Banana

Lunch:  Tuna Salad with hard boiled egg, celery and Mayo with Olive Oil on a bed of spring mix with cucumber, tomato and carrots + 2 Omegaplex (since I forgot to take them at breakfast)

Mid-Afternoon Snack:  Fruit Punch Spark + 3 Catalyst

Exercise:  Jillian Michaels Total Body Revolution Workout 1

Dinner:  Turkey Chili found in the 24 Day Challenge Cookbook, this was yummy! + 2 Omegaplex

Evening Snack:  Apple

Total Water Consumed:  80oz.

Overall Thoughts:  I am happy to be on the home stretch of the Cleanse.  I am excited to start the vitamin packs that come in the next Phase.  The other thing I noticed is a change in my fingernails.  They seem stronger, and I'm not sure but it could be from the Omegaplex capsules (Fish Oil).  I have heard Fish Oil is good for your hair and skin, so maybe it works on your nails too.  This is good for me, as long as I can stop biting them!  (Bad habit!)  Let's get this done, I know you area all anxiously awaiting to see the first set of results as am I....

Advocare 24 Day Challenge Day: 7

This is a great video of how to NOT make your SPARK, Meal Replacement and Fiber drinks! I found this amusing, but also extremely helpful!  The Fiber Drink has psyllium in it, and if you don't know what that is, it basically gelatinizes your drink in a very short period of time.  I went through a protein smoothie phase at one time, and they called for psyllium fiber, and the smoothies were very thick!  Now I know why!
The great part about the Cleanse Phase is that you only do the Fiber Drink on Days 1, 2, 3, and 8, 9, 10.  I can deal with that!  Mixing your Fiber Drink with 6oz. water and 2oz. orange juice is the best way to use the product!

The Cleanse Phase is used to help clear the toxins out of your body, while improving your digestive system and clearing out impurities.  Here are the 3 Herbal Cleanse products you use in the first 10 Days and what their purpose is:

ProBiotic Restore™ ULTRA: Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that confer health benefits on the host. Our bodies must maintain a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria and harmful bacteria to work at its best. When this balance is disturbed, it can have significant negative effects on our health. ProBiotic Restore ULTRA contains a superior multi-strain probiotic complex that provides four billion colony forming units (CFU) of freeze dried friendly bacteria to support your body's overall health by main-taining the normal, healthy balance of microorganisms your body needs.* This probiotic complex with six high potency strains - three species of Lactobacillus and three species of Bifidobacterium ensures full coverage of both the small and large intestines. ProBiotic Restore ULTRA helps strengthen and support our immune system, supports intestinal health and function, aids in digestion and enhances your weight loss program.*
Take on days four through 10.

Fiber Drink:: Fiber Drink is rich in the mixture of fibers your body needs to work at its best.* Each serving contains 10 grams of soluble and insoluble dietary fiber to help add the fiber your diet may not provide. As part of the Herbal Cleanse system, Fiber Drink also helps move the toxins and waste material through the digestive tract while scouring your intestinal tract to support improved nutrient absorption.* Take on days one through three and again on days eight through 10.

Herbal Cleanse Tablet: The Herbal Cleanse tablet provides herbal extracts that help rid your body of the impurities that may be obstacles to achieving better health.* One ingredient, senna leaf extract, is known for its use to relieve occasional constipation, as well as to encourage the movement of waste through the intestinal tract.* Beet root powder and wheat grass juice are included to aid in the reduction of metabolic by-products in the blood and liver.* Cranberry juice powder helps cleanse impurities from the kidneys and aid in excretion through the bladder.* The Herbal Cleanse tablet also contains milk thistle extract, which has the active component silymarin. Silymarin has been traditionally used to aid in eliminating toxins from the liver and is also an excellent hepaprotectant and antioxidant.* Echinacea, astragalus, garlic, zinc and vitamin C help support the immune system.* Herbal Cleanse tablets also contain a wide range of B-vitamins to help maintain energy levels during the detoxification period.* Take on days one through seven.


Upon Waking:  Pro-Biotic Restore Ultra Tabs (followed by 8oz. water), Fruit Punch SPARK

Breakfast:  1 egg Scrambled, bowl of strawberries and cantaloupe + (2) Omegaplex

Mid-Morning Snack:  Banana and Raw Almonds

Lunch:  Chocolate Mocha Meal Replacement Shake

Mid-Afternoon Snack:  Apple

Dinner:  Red Robin Turkey Burger on a whole grain bun with Chipotle Mayo and a Side Salad with Balsamic Vinegar

Before Bed:  (2) Omegaplex and Herbal Cleanse Tablets

Exercise:  WOO HOO!!! A DAY OFF!

Overall Thoughts:  I need to thank my sister-in-law for helping me continue to make the "good choice" at Red Robin!  The devil was definitely in my ear telling me to get the fries and the greasy burger!  Crystal even helped me stay strong at the movie afterwards when walking in and smelling the delicious popcorn!  None for me!  Cravings will always be there, but you know what?  So will your good friends and family to keep you strong!  No matter what your challenge, let it be weight loss, stress at work, financial issues, etc., as long as you have a great support system around you, you can conquer!

Advocare 24 Day Challenge Day: 6

I stated that I was going to tell you about the individual phases of the 24DC.  The first phase what called the Cleanse Phase.  This is from Days 1-10, and honestly don't even know you are on a "Cleanse."  The products you need for the Cleanse Phase are SPARK, Herbal Cleanse Box (includes Fiber Drink Packets, Herbal Cleanse Tablets, and Pro-Biotic Restore Ultra capsules), and Omegaplex (Fish Oil).
As you see by my daily log, you have SPARK the first thing in the morning.  This takes the place of your coffee.  Trust me when I tell you that you will not even crave coffee.  My husband normally drinks 3-4 cups/day and since he has been on he challenge with me, all he has is 1 SPARK in the morning, and he has not even had the urge to have coffee!  Below is information taken from the Advocare website:

AdvoCare SPARK Energy Drink Mix is a unique multi-nutrient system that was developed as a nutritional source of energy and enhanced mental focus.* It's a sugar-free drink mix that has more than 20 vitamins, minerals and nutrients that work synergistically to provide a healthy, balanced and effective source of energy that won't overburden or overstimulate your body like other energy drinks on the market.* This amazing product serves as an all-in-one solution that gives you a quick boost of energy that lasts for hours.* With eight refreshing flavors (Watermelon, Mango Strawberry, Pink Lemonade, Grape, Mandarin Orange, Fruit Punch, Cherry and Citrus), you're sure to find one that's perfect for you. And the best part? Only 45 calories in each serving!

Ingredients in AdvoCare Spark Energy Drink Mix contribute to supporting sustained energy or mental focus in several ways.*

For a quick boost of energy*: AdvoCare Spark Energy Drink Mix contains an effective amount of caffeine to give you the quick boost you're looking for.* Caffeine supports the processes in the central nervous system and muscles that enhance mental energy and focus in a relatively short amount of time.* The amino acid taurine helps provide the fast-acting energy you need that won't overstimulate or overburden your body.*

For long-lasting energy*: The B vitamins that are present in each serving of AdvoCare Spark Energy Drink Mix enhance your body's natural ability to produce and sustain its own energy, leading to long-lasting benefits.* Since your body looks to carbohydrates, protein and fat as its primary sources of energy, it makes sense to enhance the metabolism of each for optimal energy production. B vitamins such as thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B-12 and vitamin B-6 all specifically contribute to the conversion of the foods we eat and the calories we store for energy.

For mental focus and clarity*: The neuroactive amino acids in AdvoCare Spark Energy Drink Mix help increase your mental focus and alertness by supporting your brain's ability to receive and send messages to and from the nervous system.* For example, L-tyrosine an amino acid found in dietary proteins, is believed to improve mental energy and focus by serving as a precursor for specific neurotransmitters. Furthermore, the choline and GABA found in AdvoCare Spark Energy Drink Mix are essential for nerve function, muscle control, memory and many other functions.* Together, the nutrients found in AdvoCare Spark Energy Drink Mix provide the energy, mental focus and well-rounded nutrition that makes it the most effective energy drink on the market.*

Ingredients/Facts AdvoCare Spark® Regular Brewed Coffee The Coca-Cola Company® Coca-Cola® Red Bull® Rockstar® Starbucks® Grande Mocha Frappuccino® Whip † Serving Size One Pouch 8 fl. oz. 8 fl. oz. 12 fl. oz. 8.3 fl. oz. 8 fl. oz. 16 fl. oz. Servings per Container 1 1 1 1 1 1 Calories 45 2 146 110 140 380 Total Fat 0 0.5g 0 0 0 15g Saturated Fat 0 0 0 0 0 9g Cholesterol 0 0 0 0 0 55mg Sodium 0 5mg 50mg 200mg 40mg 240mg Potassium 0 116mg 0 0 0 0 Total Carbohydrates 11g 0 41g 28g 31g 57g Sugars 0 0 41g 27g 31g 47g Protein 0 0.28g 0 0 0 6g Vitamin A 20% 0 0 0 0 10% Vitamin C 300% 0 0 0 0 0 Vitamin E 100% <1% 0 0 0 0 Thiamine 200% 2% 0 0 0 0 Riboflavin 200% 11% 0 0 100% 0 Niacin 300% 2% 0 100% 100% 0 Vitamin B-6 750% <1% 0 250% 100% 0 Vitamin B-12 750% 0 0 83% 100% 0 Pantothenic Acid 500% 6% 0 50% 100% 0 Zinc 20% <1% 0 0 0 0 Total Caffeine 120mg 95-150mg 35mg 80mg 80mg 115mg

† Caffeine content of specialty coffees, Journal of Analytical Toxicology, Vol. 27, October 2003.

AdvoCare Spark® excels when compared to the competition because its advanced formulation is more nutritionally well-rounded with no sugar and fewer calories, providing a healthy, effective source of energy that's based on proven science.*

All entries in the comparison table have been made on the basis of information available from a variety of sources. To the best of our knowledge, this information is accurate and complete as of publication of this document. All trademarks, product names and company names or logos cited herein are the property of their respective owners.

Upon Waking:  Pro-Biotic Restore Ultra Tabs (followed by 8 oz. water), Fruit Punch SPARK

Breakfast:  Chocolate Mocha Meal Replacement Shake + 2 Omegaplex

Mid-Morning Snack:  Bowl of strawberries, cantaloupe and kiwi fruit

Lunch:   Salad with spring mix, yellow pepper, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, shredded baked chicken, evoo and balsamic vinegar 

Mid-Afternoon Snack:  Raw Almonds

Exercise:  (3) Catalyst and Fruit Punch SPARK taken 10 minutes prior

                      Jillian Michaels Total Body Revolution:  Cardio

Dinner:  Grilled chicken with dry barbcue rub and grilled carrots, sweet potatoes and eggplant + 2 Omegaplex

Evening Snack:  Apple with PB2

Before Bed:  Herbal Cleanse Tablets

Total Water Consumed:  88oz

Overall Thoughts:  Today I had a cranky day :(  We all have them. The SPARK helped lift my mood, but I did need to take one in the afternoon as a pick me up.  I was also VERY hungry today.  I think as I have been working out more, the more calories I am burning, I need to make sure I am getting all the nutrition I need.  I am continuing to follow the eating "plan" and I am starting to see small yet noticeable changes!  Tomorrow I look forward to an "off" day of exercise!

Advocare 24 Day Challenge Day : 5

Advocare is becoming one of the nation's fastest growing companies that are making people healthier on a daily basis!  Many popular athletes are unpaid endorsers for Advocare, including Dallas Cowboys Tight End Jason Witten, and the ever so popular Drew Brees from the New Orleans Saints.  Coming this fall, you may see some commercials coming out for Advocare.  I want to explain that these products are not just for athletes, Lord knows I am not one!  These products are not just to lose weight, although that is an added bonus!  Mainly these products are to give you a healthier lifestyle, and energy throughout your day and work out.  To start I am going through the 24 Day Challenge, but what happens after that? I will continue to use SPARK, which is a great and amazing morning drink that gives me energy ALL day without the jitters, without yawning at 2pm!  I will continue on using the MNS Vitamin Packs (those start at Day 11 of the 24DC), and I will continue to use the Catalyst before my workouts to protect my lean muscle so I don't lose it.  There are so many other products that Advocare offers for any person just wanting more energy to start their day, or to add muscle, or to get a balanced dose of vitamins and build up your immune system.  You don't need to start with the 24DC, you can just try a SPARK (ask me for one)!

Advocare, including the amazing health benefits also offers a financial side if you want to start having financial freedom.  There is no pyramid scheme (trust me I HATE those), but by becoming an Advocare Distributor, you can not only benefit from a great discount on products, but you can become an Advisor and start bringing in extra income to help your family from financial stress.
I have been to a million Thirty-One, Pampered Chef, Longaberger, Scensty, etc (the list goes on and on!) parties, and I was never really interested in selling those products.  Using the Advocare products has helped me understand the potential of these products and not that I would be "selling" them, but in actuality I would be HELPING others to have a healthier life.  These products really are different and quite amazing.  In only 5 short days, I am no longer tired at the end of the day, and I feel good.  I am excited for Day 11 to weigh myself and take measurements!  I hope after following my blog, you too will see the amazing potential that awaits you....


Upon Waking:  Probiotic Restore Ultra Tabs followed by 8oz water,  Fruit Punch SPARK

Breakfast:  Chocolate Mocha Meal Replacement Shake + 2 Omegaplex

Mid-Morning Snack:  Bowl of Strawberries and Kiwi

Lunch:  I cheated (my boss bought Chinese today)  I had a little Chicken and Broccoli with Brown Rice

Mid-Afternoon Snack:  Banana with PB2

Dinner:  Tuna Salad on a bed of lettuce, with yellow peppers, carrots, cucumber and tomatoes, drizzled with EVOO and Balsamic Vinegar. + 2 Omegaplex

Evening Snack:  1/4 cup Raw Almonds

Exercise:  3 Catalyst taken 10 min prior; Jillian Michaels Total Body Revolution Workout 2

Before Bed:  Herbal Cleanse tablets

Total Water Consumed:  80oz.

Overall Thoughts:  I am halfway done with the cleanse portion!  This is super exciting, and I just feel great all over.  I have been pushing myself hard through the work outs, and Jillian is the best!  For those of you that have tried the SPARK and are loving it, I hope you can share or comment on here, so others can hear the great benefits that you have experienced.  Over the next couple of days, I will walk you through the cleanse portion, as some of you were concerned that all you do is drink shakes, or you have to run to the bathroom, etc.  I will put those myths to rest, and you can see step by step what is involved.