What is Whole30? Whole30 is an elimination diet consisting of a 30-day period where certain foods are avoided. According to its founders, these foods can cause inflammation, cravings, and have a negative impact on hormones and gut-health.
Eat real food.
No added sugar, artificial or real
Alcohol in any form is not acceptable
No: grains
No: legumes
No: dairy
No carrageenan, sulfites or other additives
You can’t make junk food, treats or baked goods with approved ingredients
No: Stepping on the scales or taking measurements
You will succeed. Whole30 will help you discover new foods and healthy habits that you can continue to practice even after the 30 days are over. Let’s do it!
It may be difficult to grasp the concept of Whole30 and what foods you are allowed and forbidden. It is important that you take the time to read the whole program. This will help to ensure your success. It’s important to check your calendar to choose a date for the start that works best for you. It’s just 30 days. It’s best to choose a month/time when you don’t have any outside commitments, such as vacations. I usually choose January/February. It’s also nice to inform my family and close friends so that they won’t say, “hey let’s get dessert” or “let us go out to drink” — it’s just 30 days. You can do it!
A group of friends joining you on your trip is another helpful tool! You’ll be surprised to find that at least two, maybe three, will join you on your journey! My whole30 group is now four people (including myself) – create a group text to support each other and share plates, new recipes, whole30 food discoveries, and even tears [when you just want a glass or two of red wine]! Whole30 with your friends will be a blast and the 30 days will go by quickly while you have fun.
It’s almost time to go! Preparing for the future is key to a successful journey. Get your phone, pen and paper out a week before you start. Enter whole30 breakfasts into your phone and see what you like. Write down ideas. Then, do the same for whole30 dinner and lunch ideas. Do not forget to include whole30 sauces and snacks! Look at the ingredients required in the recipes that interest you. You may need to buy some new items for your pantry. I create a complete menu for a week at a go …. This leads me to create a weekly grocery list. It is helpful to have 7 dinners planned and ingredients bought. It’s very useful as you won’t be left wondering about what to cook, eat, etc.
Some of my favorite places to find recipes are The Defined dish, Paleo Running Momma Whole Kitchen Sink All The Heathy things, 40 Aprons, and The Defined dish.
Get your list ready about 2 days in advance and start shopping! I
Costco: meat, frozen foods, pantry items and snacks
Wholefoods: dressings, sauces, dried fruits, bacon
Winco: fruits, veggies
Amazon: Nutpods
Below you can find all of my favorite Whole30 products!
Implement the habits! Find the rhythm that works for YOU, and then do it for four weeks. Meal planning on the Saturday is what works for me. Shop on Sundays! I have found myself eating leftovers from dinner for lunch [or sometimes even for a late morning breakfast]. I always carry chomp sticks, dried fruits or nuts with me when I leave the house. You don’t want that feeling of being hungry to hit you while you’re out! The journey will become easier the more days pass and before you know, you’ll have reached day 30.
Enjoy the journey. Around day 7/8, I start to really appreciate what this journey does for my body and mind. I had clearer skin, felt less bloated, had more energy, decreased inflammation and my mind was cleared. Give your body the fuel it needs. Please share your experiences with the whole30 journey in the comments section below. As I end this journey, I want to share a moment of celebration with you. So without further ado ….
