The Whole30 program is sweeping the globe. I have done it 4 times — here is why I love Whole30 and why I won’t do it again! 

If you have read any of my posts about Whole30 (here, here, here, or here) or follow me on Instagram, you know that I am a fan of the program. I have always tried to be healthy, and after having babies I put forth even more effort to be an example of health to my family.

I was introduced to the book Nourishing Traditions by my sister-in-law 7 years ago and was forever changed. I thought I knew what was healthy before, but my mind was blown and I learned more than I could have ever imagined. That one book altered the way I approached eating. Real food. Prepared the right way. That’s the magic formula!

It’s no wonder that I hit it off with the philosophy behind the Whole30 program. I loved Melissa Hartwig’s take on health and balance. I love that the program is meant as a 30-day reset, not an entire-life strict diet plan. It’s meant to TEACH you about food and how it effects your body, and then give you an outline to follow to maintain health throughout your life. It isn’t a diet that you completely ditch after 30 days and binge on ice cream and donuts after you put in your time. It’s a lifestyle change (hopefully).

I will continue to recommend the program to anyone who will listen. I whole-heartedly believe in it and know that it can be life changing for many people. I have completed 4 rounds of Whole30. Only one of those was truly for myself! I did the other 3 because people I love and care about wanted to do it and needed some extra motivation.

The first round that I did for myself over a year ago, I did the reintroduction very carefully because I was insanely curious about what foods were bothering me. I have always had sensitive digestion. I learned that dairy hurts/bloats and makes me break out. No thanks! I learned that peanut butter also bloats, but is WORTH IT. Every time. I learned that I feel better, sleep more deeply, and have more energy when eating clean.

During my last round earlier this year I made a decision not to do it again. It seems pointless for me. I eat that way most of the time anyway. Why would I cut out raw honey and coconut sugar, which are actually really good for me? There is nothing left for me with Whole30. I AM WHOLE30. Isn’t that what the cool kids are saying?

I have done it, I believe in it, I wish a lot of people I love would do it and boost themselves into a healthier way of life, but I don’t need it anymore.

Thank you, Whole30, for changing lives everywhere. But I am not a fanatic. I will not live and die by the Whole30 rules or lifestyle. I eat real food. Properly prepared. I don’t eat a lot of processed foods. I try to eat quality meats (AKA elk shot in my backyard). I grow vegetables. But I am not perfect.

If I really want a donut, even with the headache/bloat/other unpleasantries that come with it, I will eat one. If I want to make my daughter a full-fledged gluten filled birthday cake and eat a piece, I will!

I do my best. And hope to inspire others. But I refuse to give food complete control over my life. I eat it to survive, I don’t survive to eat.

I have found peace in where I am at and don’t feel the need to try everything that comes along. I tried Paleo for a while, then did some Whole30. But now I just eat. I don’t worry about the specific diets out there. I know what will make me feel good and what is junk.

Food is a major part of our lives. People search for years and try every new diet/fad, only to be disappointed. I will continue to preach keeping things simple (didn’t I name a blog after that somewhere?) and trying to eat real food, most of the time. It really can be that easy!

I love Whole30. I love Melissa’s sass and directness. The support provided in the Whole30 community is unmatched. I am thankful to have been a part of that community. For anyone contemplating a round, I say GO FOR IT. You will learn more about yourself and about food than you could imagine. To see the potential of our bodies’ capabilities is a gift.

As for me, I will continue to eat well, exercise, and keep my life uncomplicated to relieve stress. It’s a simple formula, but it works.

I have found my balance. How can I help you find yours?