“I just want a brownie!”
I yelled in the middle of the crowded grocery store.
My husband shot me a look, and even I was surprised by my outburst.
There I was holding an armful of apples, sweet potatoes, and almonds.
I wanted sugar, and I wanted it bad.
There are plenty of reasons to make a dramatic diet change like the Whole 30.
Some people crave the structure of a cleanse or program.
Others like that sense of community.
If I’m suffering, I want everyone around me to be unhappy as well.
For me, the promise of improved health was exciting.
What is the Whole 30?
TheWhole 30 was created in 2009by licensed nutritionists Dallas and Melissa Hartwig.
It is meant to be a “short-term nutritional reset.”
Can’t get a handle on your psoriasis?
Maybe you’re sensitive to soy.
Chronic migraines ruling your life?
Gluten could be the culprit.
Among just about every chronic health condition, the Whole 30 states it improves seasonal allergies and respiratory issues.
So I kissed pizza and sugar goodbye and set out on this new adventure.
Isn’t that just paleo?
While the Whole 30 has a lot of similarities with thePaleo Diet, there are a few key differences.
Paleo also focuses on whole, minimally-processed foods.
However, there are many paleo versions of “off-limits” foods, such aspaleo breadorpaleo pancakes.
These treats are not allowed on the Whole 30.
Why try it?
“Let your body heal and recover from whatever effects those foods may be causing.
What I didn’t expect was to confront a full-on sugar addiction.
Prior to cutting it out, I never realized how dependent I was on it.
What are the benefits?
The benefits of the Whole 30 are tricky to determine because it seems the results are so individualized.
Of course theWhole 30 websiteis filled with testimonials praising the program for everything from losing weight to curing diabetes.
Participants have reported clearer skin, improved energy, and lower blood pressure.
Oh, and it will probably help youlive longer.
What are the drawbacks?
The biggest drawback to the Whole 30 is the exact reason it is so popular.
It is just so very extreme.
Judging fromits testimonials, Whole 30 participants love the no-nonsense structure and tough love the program offers.
However, this kind of restricted diet is certainly not sustainable in the long run.
For example, if you slip up, the creators state thatyou must completely start the program over.
Snuck a bite of cheese on day 28?
Back of the line; tomorrow is day one for you.
Nutritionist Keri Glassman worries that part of the plan is unrealistic.
It’s also difficult to continue making meals with nothing but meat and vegetables for 30 days.
Dr. David L. Katz spoke withBusiness Insiderabout the restrictive nature of the program.
Is it worth it?
While it definitely has its drawbacks, I am glad I completed the Whole 30.
I’m also glad it’s over!
The Whole 30 does a fantastic job of providing the resources and community to support you during this journey.
As for my results, I accomplished what I set out to do.
I went an entire month with absolutely no allergy or sinus symptoms.
My clothes are looser now.
Most importantly, I feel like I have truly transformed my relationship with food.
I no longer see it as a comfort or a reward for a hard day.
I find myself turning down cake with little to no effort.
